Ames: A vibrant college town with endless opportunities

Iowa State has students from all 50 states and more than 100 nations, all coming together to call Ames their home. This vibrant college town is part of what makes Iowa State special.

While there is a lot to do on campus, the Ames community boasts shopping, dining, and outdoor activities to make the most of your college experience.

Campus visit parking

Campus visitors to Iowa State University may park in the parking ramp attached to the Memorial Union where your visit will be held. The ramp is located at the south edge of campus at the Lincoln-Way/Lynn Avenue intersection.

Entering the Memorial Union Parking Ramp

South entrance – When traveling west on Lincoln Way, immediately after the traffic signal at Ash Avenue there is an entrance to the parking ramp. Turn right (north) into that entrance. You can also turn right on Lynn and immediately right again into the south entrance.

Directions to Ames, Iowa

By car

Ames is centrally located in the Midwest and well-served by ground transportation. North-south Interstate 35 passes through Ames and intersects east-west Interstate 80 just 25 miles south of Ames. Minneapolis is only 218 miles north, Chicago 322 miles east, and Omaha 168 miles west.

By plane

Many commercial and commuter airlines serve the Des Moines International Airport. Private planes use the Ames Municipal Airport. Car rental is also available at the Des Moines airport.

Directions to Iowa State University