A public art collection that is one of the largest on a university campus in the United States, a museum of local history, and a botanical garden give Ames several distinct cultural themes. There are also hands-on art classes and recurring seasonal events. When planning your stay, consider whether you mainly want to explore art and history, get creative yourself, or include a specific event. The offerings differ both in content and in their timing throughout the year.
Art Collection and Local History
The University Museums include one of the largest public art collections on a university campus in the United States. The Ames History Museum showcases the history of the local community, from early settlement to its modern-day contributions. This gives you two distinct perspectives to choose from: art on the one hand, and the history of the local community on the other. If you want to learn about Ames through its history, the museum offers a timeline spanning from its early beginnings to modern-day contributions.
Experience Art Hands-On
The Octagon Center for the Arts offers hands-on classes in ceramics, painting, and mixed media for all ages and skill levels. Unlike an art collection or a museum, the focus here is on creating art yourself. This lets you choose between exploring art as a subject and engaging with it hands-on during your stay. Class schedules may change; check current dates if a class is important to your travel plans.
Botanical Garden and Winter Lights
Reiman Gardens is a 17-acre public botanical garden. It includes the Hughes Conservatory, a tropical greenhouse with colorful and rare plants. Winter Wonderscape offers a different experience: this outdoor holiday light display takes place at Reiman Gardens every December. The greenhouse and light display differ both in setting and focus—tropical plants indoors, and a seasonal light experience outdoors. If you are planning a December visit specifically, check the current dates and program, as both may vary.
Festival and Farmers’ Market
The annual Octagon Art Festival is now in its 54th year and draws thousands of people to Downtown Ames to celebrate local and regional artists. Its program may change; check current event dates if you are planning your stay around the festival. The Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market follows a different schedule: it takes place every Saturday from May through October, though dates and opening hours may change. The difference can help you choose when to travel: the festival is an annual art event, while the market takes place on Saturdays during a seasonal window. If you plan to visit the market, also check the current opening hours.
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