Fun things to do and endless places to visit. Unique shops and delicious dining. Concerts and performances featuring renowned and up-and-coming names. Iowa State University and the city of Ames offer a perfect blend of arts, culture and entertainment with a stunning backdrop no matter the season – spring, summer, fall, and winter. Whether you're exploring campus or the Ames community, beauty and wonder are around every corner.
University Museums encompasses two art museums, a National Historic Landmark historic home museum, a sculpture garden, and one of the largest campus public art collections in the nation. Enjoy world-class exhibitions with educational programming, a permanent collection of more than 30,000 objects, and a commitment to diversity in the growing Art on Campus collection.
From the Wall Street Journal to Forbes Magazine, the city of Ames continually ranks among America's best cities to live, work, play, and, of course, go to college. From live music and shopping to outdoor activities and arts and culture, there is something for everyone in Ames.
Bring your homework or take a break at Reiman Gardens, a 17-acre oasis on campus open year-round. The public garden includes a tropical conservatory and a butterfly wing with hundreds of exotic butterflies taking wing, all free for Iowa State students. Be sure to get a photo with Elwood, the world's largest concrete gnome at 15 feet tall.
