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

Visitors to Iowa State University can park in the Memorial Union Parking Ramp, conveniently located near the south edge of campus at the intersection of Lincoln Way and Lynn Avenue, where your visit will take place.

How to enter the Memorial Union parking ramp:

South entrance: If you’re traveling west on Lincoln Way, turn right (north) immediately after the traffic signal at Ash Avenue to access the ramp. Alternatively, you can turn right onto Lynn Avenue and take an immediate right into the south entrance of the ramp.

Directions to Ames, Iowa

By car

Ames is conveniently located in the heart of the Midwest, offering excellent access via major highways. Interstate 35 runs north-south through Ames and connects with Interstate 80, an east-west route, just 25 miles to the south. Key nearby cities include Minneapolis (218 miles north), Chicago (322 miles east), and Omaha (168 miles west).

By plane

The Des Moines International Airport, served by numerous commercial and commuter airlines, is the nearest major airport. For private aircraft, the Ames Municipal Airport is available. Car rental services are conveniently located at the Des Moines airport for onward travel.

Directions to Iowa State University