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Top 24 Hotels Near Gateway Hills Pool
1500 Gateway Hills Park Dr Ames, IA 50014-7881
Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University
Gateway Hills Pool is a short drive from Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University, a detail that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Guests at Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University may encounter eclectic design, artisanal coffee, and small-scale concierge support upon arrival. Rooms often highlight artisanal décor, premium bedding, and curated minibars that frame a creative boutique-style guest retreat. Facilities may showcase artisanal coffee shops, intimate lounges, and curated art that emphasize a creative boutique impression.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry service, and pet allowances, providing boutique ease for longer guest stays.
Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites
In Ames, Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites's easy-commute location to Gateway Hills Pool lets guests travel in a way that feels natural and easy.
Best Western highlights local character—regional art, travel guides, and small retail—signaling place while maintaining a dependable rhythm. Standard guest rooms balance clear paths from door to bath and bed, aiding night navigation and reducing stumbles in new surroundings. Business centers supply computers, printers, and desks, allowing itineraries, forms, and tickets to update without leaving the property.
Between printers, Wi-Fi, small meeting pods, and coffee service, tasks move forward while short breaks anchor energy during travel days.
Spark by Hilton Ames
Gateway Hills Pool is a quick drive from Spark by Hilton Ames, a setup that offers a simple way to get there before the stay.
Hilton pairs concierge service with open lobby layouts, helping ensure orientation clarity and a seamless start to every guest stay. Each guest room offers ergonomic chairs, strong lighting, and large desks, ensuring business tasks can be managed comfortably. The fitness center stocked with treadmills, ellipticals, and mats lets guests keep routines balanced and wellness goals consistent daily.
Amenities include fitness rooms, breakfast spreads, self-parking, and Wi-Fi, simplifying daily routines for travelers on the go.
Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus
Gateway Hills Pool is an easy drive from Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus, a detail that allows for a thought-free and simple part of the day.
After travel Comfort Inn reception areas commonly offer quick access to water, coffee, or a grab-and-go shelf for simple refreshment. Every guest room places bedside USB ports, task lighting, and easy-access outlets so devices charge while you rest and morning routines stay smooth. Outdoor pools, at select addresses, incorporate shallow sections and cabanas, supporting family downtime and shade-seeking breaks in sunny seasons.
For families, pools, free breakfast, mini-fridges, and guest laundry simplify mornings and keep energy steady across full days.
Hilton Garden Inn Ames
In Ames, Hilton Garden Inn Ames boasts a accessible location to Gateway Hills Pool, letting guests connect with the area before their stay begins.
Hilton Garden Inn offers lobby coffee service that reflects attentiveness, giving guests reliable courtesy touches on arrival. All guest rooms contain ergonomic chairs, work desks, and charging hubs, helping travelers maintain productivity throughout their stays. Fitness rooms with rowing machines, treadmills, and free weights reinforce health balance, letting guests sustain energy across trips.
Valet parking, hot breakfast, complimentary internet, fitness facilities, and meeting spaces provide dependable balance for every trip.
Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus
When staying in Ames, the short drive from Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus to Gateway Hills Pool is an easy drive, allowing guests to arrive calm and prepared.
Sleep Inn's seating zones sit within sight of reception, allowing families to park bags and rest briefly while details are confirmed. Each guest room balances a large workspace, a coffee station, a refrigerator and blackout curtains to support routines and restful sleep. Meeting rooms provide natural light, whiteboards and AV hookups to support focused sessions without extra vendor coordination.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, pool access, business services, EV charging at select hotels and laundry, travel days flow more smoothly.
Courtyard by Marriott Ames
This easy commute to Gateway Hills Pool enables Courtyard by Marriott Ames to be a convenient anchor before the on-site experience starts.
Guests entering Courtyard encounter bold finishes, modular seating, and open layouts, details that produce modern and practical cues. Suites supply flexible layouts, sofa seating, and hardwood details, providing stylish comfort that remains consistent worldwide. The lobby lounge with community tables, modular seating, and lighting highlights consistency and supports orientation for arrivals.
Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast spreads, meeting rooms, and indoor pools, reliable services that sustain routines daily.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
This quick drive to Gateway Hills Pool helps GrandStay Hotel & Suites guests become like they are part of the local Ames scene without a major commute.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites often provides an uncomplicated desk experience, on-site parking, and a compact lobby aimed at keeping wait times low. Accommodations may provide curated décor, premium linens, and compact layouts, delivering balance and comfort for traveling guests. Facilities may present breakfast areas, guest laundries, and small seating zones that reflect the practical focus of budget properties.
Accommodations often present Wi-Fi, guest laundry, modest breakfast, and parking, maintaining practical routines for visiting guests.
Days Inn by Wyndham Ames
From Days Inn by Wyndham Ames, Gateway Hills Pool is a simple drive, a choice that frames the stay with an initial sense of ease.
ADA parking and ramp access at Days Inn sit close to lobby doors, shortening the route from vehicle to counter and elevator banks. Every guest room maintains free Wi-Fi and a bedside clock, helping wakeups stay reliable while plans and tickets sync overnight. Terraces or courtyards, where available, add planters, shade, and lighting, turning spare time into simple outdoor pauses close to amenities.
With a pool where offered, a fitness room, and Wi-Fi plus lounge chairs, routines balance cooldowns, movement, and connection nearby.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames
For a trip to Ames, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames's location a quick drive from Gateway Hills Pool is an essential aspect of its appeal.
Guests are welcomed with complimentary Wi-Fi and lobby charging hubs at SpringHill Suites, letting them reset devices while coordinating plans. Suites highlight plush bedding, sofa seating, and entertainment systems, helping guests unwind comfortably and recharge after long days of travel. The breakfast zone highlights hot buffet selections, pastries, and coffee, making it easy for families to begin mornings together with clarity.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast service, indoor pool, and business center together create a dependable mix that eases travel stressors daily.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ames
The hotel's location is designed for uncomplicated travel, with Gateway Hills Pool an easy drive away, ensuring a confident journey.
Lobby design at TownePlace Suites layers markets, signage, and seating, producing first impressions that balance clarity with comfort. Each guest room offers soft carpeting, smart entertainment, and kitchen access, grounding guests in familiar routines at arrival. Patio areas combine fire pits and lounge chairs, giving travelers comfortable spaces to relax and share with warmth.
Fitness center, business center, and breakfast buffet merge wellness, productivity, and nourishment, supporting balanced guest schedules.
Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG
Gateway Hills Pool is an uncomplicated drive from Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG, a layout that ensures the trip there is a pleasant part of the experience.
Near reception, Staybridge Suites may stage a computer and printer nook so boarding passes and confirmations finish quickly without detours. Guest rooms may add accessible layouts with roll-in showers and grab bars, keeping movement predictable for varied mobility needs. Meeting rooms accept movable seating, AV hookups, and sign-in tables, keeping small sessions and briefings straightforward to stage.
Between shuttle service at select airports, Wi-Fi, and parking plus a market, travel days stay efficient from curb to room and back.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ames
Gateway Hills Pool is within easy reach of Hampton Inn & Suites Ames, a setup that offers a simple way to get there before the stay.
Hampton Inn Pavilion-style lobby markets stock snacks, drinks, and essentials, offering immediate convenience to support guest needs. All guest rooms offer ergonomic chairs, large desks, and Wi-Fi, enabling travelers to maintain productivity while traveling. Lobby seating with sofas, chairs, and community tables produces regrouping areas, letting families pause comfortably after arrivals.
On-site markets, complimentary internet, fitness facilities, breakfast bags, and laundry service simplify routines for busy guests daily.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames
Reaching Gateway Hills Pool from Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames is an uncomplicated drive, a quality that enhances the overall guest experience with simplicity.
After check-in, Home2 Suites offers infused water stations near seating clusters, showing attentiveness through small, thoughtful gestures. Suites deliver walk-in showers, stocked toiletries, and plush towels, refreshing guests with daily comfort and reliable convenience. Guests relaxing in the lobby find couches, armchairs, and community tables, offering a hub for conversation or casual connection.
With fitness centers, pet-friendly policies, Inspired Table® breakfast, and markets, families enjoy convenience and flexibility reliably.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames
The benefit of a uncomplicated drive to Gateway Hills Pool renders Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
Fairfield Inn situates a compact market and grab-and-go cases near the desk, so late arrivals can secure snacks without wandering the property. Guest rooms are designed with ergonomic chairs, work surfaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi, providing continuity for professional productivity. Lobby areas showcase sofas, flexible chairs, and open sightlines, serving as casual hubs for both orientation and social interaction daily.
Guests benefit from 24/7 Market snacks, breakfast with fruit and eggs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and indoor pool access, simplifying daily routines.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames
Upon leaving Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames, Gateway Hills Pool is an easy drive to avoid traffic, simplifying your visit.
After long drives, Microtel often sets out lobby coffee or tea, offering a quick reset while keys, IDs, and confirmations finalize cleanly. Standard guest rooms add a coffee maker with supplies and bright vanity lighting, helping mornings start smoothly before departure. Computer kiosks in the lobby provide basic browsing and printing, making boarding passes and forms ready before early departures.
Between free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a fitness room, plus a pool or hot tub where offered, recovery and routine both land cleanly each day.
Baymont by Wyndham Ames
The inherent advantage of Baymont by Wyndham Ames in Ames is having Gateway Hills Pool a direct run, allowing for a predictable travel plan.
For orientation, Baymont posts neighborhood maps and dining lists near the desk, making first errands straightforward after check-in. Standard guest rooms arrange window coverings, blackout liners, and quiet fan modes, helping rest run deep before early errands most nights. Pool areas use non-slip decking and posted rules to set expectations for swim times and quiet hours, avoiding surprises during stays.
With free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a fitness room plus a pool and guest laundry, daily routines stay simple from morning through wind-down.
Red Roof Inn Ames
The hotel's location is characterized by its low-effort commute to Gateway Hills Pool, which is an easy drive away, saving energy for the event.
The reliable presence of vending options in the Red Roof Inn lobby ensures guests can always grab a quick bite or drink upon their arrival. Superior rooms with an in-room coffee maker allow guests to start their morning with a fresh brew without having to leave their room. Convenient ice access on guest floors is a simple but important detail, supporting everything from in-room drinks to packing a cooler.
A suite of practical amenities like guest laundry, free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free coffee simplifies life on the road.
Sonesta Essential Ames
The benefit of a direct drive to Gateway Hills Pool turns Sonesta Essential Ames into a great anchor point before the main on-site experience begins.
At the core, Sonesta Essential keeps the lobby active with coffee, market, and seating, concentrating essentials so first-hour choices are simple. Each suite pairs a larger workstation, reliable Wi-Fi, and a second TV, making it easier to run meetings or unwind without crowding the bed. Grab-and-go market spaces stock refrigerated cases, snacks, and beverage stations, enabling quick refuel options without leaving the property.
With hot breakfast, reliable Wi-Fi, a fitness room, meeting facilities, and on-site parking, routines stay efficient and consistent.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA
The inherent advantage of Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA in Ames is having Gateway Hills Pool a direct run, allowing for a predictable travel plan.
At Radisson, tall counters with integrated outlets sit near the desk for quick charging and short work sessions while waiting for room access. Every suite supplies extra linens, a sofa bed, and a designated workspace so groups can balance shared meals, remote work, and evening rest. Meeting rooms supply AV hookups, flexible seating, and modular tables, supporting small trainings, brief gatherings, and efficient group planning.
From business center and modular meetings to a fitness room, laundry, market counters, and parking, travelers stay productive.
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
The benefit of a simple drive to Gateway Hills Pool makes AmericInn by Wyndham Ames into a great anchor point before the main on-site experience begins.
Clear wayfinding and sightlines at Wyndham reception reduce bottlenecks, helping travelers finish check-in and move on without confusion. Every guest room provides a single-serve coffee maker, ample outlets, and climate control, letting guests recharge with comfort. Rooftop terraces feature planter beds, seating clusters, and evening lighting, creating a social vantage point for small gatherings or downtime.
Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, meeting rooms, in-room coffee makers, EV charging, and family suites ensure both work and family routines remain intact.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG
From Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG, the minimal trip to Gateway Hills Pool removes travel complications to keep things simple before the stay unfolds.
Soft seating arrangements at Holiday Inn Express create decompression areas where travelers can regroup before continuing their day. Suites provide sofa beds, lounge seating, and large TVs, ensuring group or family accommodations remain flexible and comfortable. Meeting facilities featuring projection equipment, breakout tables, and seating flexibility make professional events run smoothly.
Pet-friendly accommodations, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi link with fitness centers and parking, delivering family convenience daily.
Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus
Guests at Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus can utilize Gateway Hills Pool being an easy drive as a defining perk of their stay.
At check-in Quality Inn commonly places coffee and breakfast points near reception, giving guests immediate refreshment without extra walking. Guest rooms place bedside USB ports, task lamps, and outlets so phones and laptops recharge overnight while keeping routines uninterrupted. Guest vending corners and market shelves provide batteries, toiletries, and snacks so travelers avoid late-night trips off property during stays.
With quiet lounge areas and club-style spaces at some hotels, small groups find calm corners to plan, meet, or unwind between agendas.
Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Boone
The hotel's sensible regional placement ensures Gateway Hills Pool is within driving reach, underscoring its suitability as a hub.
At Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Boone, arrivals may feature efficient reception, vending options, and close parking that favor practical guest routines. Rooms typically include plush bedding, climate control, and blackout curtains, reinforcing privacy and comfort for restful overnight stays. Amenities may include vending corners, guest laundries, and compact breakfast rooms that sustain consistent daily routines for travelers.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, vending machines, parking, and laundry facilities, reflecting the reliable ease of budget accommodations.
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Gateway Hills Pool Local Area Guide
Gateway Hills Pool is a premier aquatic facility serving Ames, Iowa, and surrounding communities. This guide is designed for families, local groups, and visitors looking to make the most of their pool visit, offering practical insights into navigating the facility, planning your day, and discovering nearby amenities. Learn about parking, best times to visit, food options, and essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Gateway Hills Pool (Ames, IA)
Gateway Hills Pool is situated within the expansive Gateway Hills Park, a significant recreational hub on the west side of Ames, Iowa. The park itself is accessible via Gateway Hills Park Drive, which connects to the larger municipal road network, making it relatively straightforward to reach. Major arteries like Highway 30 and University Boulevard are a short drive away, facilitating access from across the city and region. Parking is generally ample within the park's designated lots, but can become busy on peak summer days, particularly during open swim hours and scheduled events. The nearest major airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), located about a 40-45 minute drive southeast of Ames, requiring travel via I-35 South and then Highway 30 West. Public transportation within Ames is limited, so driving or utilizing rideshare services are the most common methods for reaching the pool. Planning your arrival for weekdays or earlier weekend mornings can help avoid the busiest periods and secure the best parking spots.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Gateway Hills Pool
The immediate vicinity of Gateway Hills Pool is primarily composed of Gateway Hills Park, featuring athletic fields, playgrounds, and walking trails, rather than dense hotel or residential development. Consequently, most hotel accommodations are located in the broader Ames area, clustering around the Iowa State University campus and along the main commercial corridors. Visitors seeking proximity will typically find hotels within a 10-15 minute drive of the pool complex. Areas closer to the university campus offer a wider selection of lodging, from budget-friendly motels to more upscale hotels. Due to the pool's popularity during the summer months, especially for families and organized swim groups, booking accommodations well in advance is highly recommended. Using hotel search filters that prioritize distance or map views can help identify suitable options that balance convenience and cost, though a short drive is often necessary.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is about a 45-minute drive away.
- Arrive early on weekdays or weekend mornings to secure preferred parking spots.
- Gateway Hills Park offers walking trails and playgrounds for a break from the water.
- Pack extra towels and a change of clothes for unexpected weather changes or cool evenings.
- The park's picnic areas are ideal for regrouping and sharing snacks between swims.
Day-Use Flow
Arrival & Entry
Plan to arrive during the first hour of operation for the best selection of parking and locker room availability. Have your entry fees or season passes ready to streamline the check-in process at the front gate. Familiarize yourself with the pool layout upon entry; locate the main pool areas, changing facilities, and designated seating zones. Staying hydrated from the moment you arrive is key, especially during warmer months. The initial moments are crucial for setting a relaxed rhythm for your aquatic outing.
Mid-Day Activities
The peak hours typically fall between late morning and mid-afternoon. Consider utilizing the various pool features, from lap lanes to leisure areas, during slightly less crowded times if possible. Take advantage of the picnic areas or nearby park amenities for a break from the water and sun. Lunchtime is a good opportunity for a meal outside the immediate pool area, allowing for a change of pace. Remember to reapply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin throughout the day.
Late Afternoon & Departure
As the afternoon wanes, crowds may begin to thin. Enjoy a final swim or relax in a shaded spot before preparing to depart. Allow ample time for changing and packing up your belongings, especially if using the public locker rooms. Check the pool's closing time in advance to ensure a smooth exit. Consider grabbing a treat at a nearby park or on your drive home to cap off the day.
Things to Do Near Gateway Hills Pool
Walkable
Gateway Hills Park
Gateway Hills Park surrounds the pool and offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities beyond the water. Visitors can explore numerous walking and jogging trails that wind through the park's green spaces, providing a peaceful escape. Several well-maintained playgrounds are available, perfect for younger children who may need a break from swimming or for families looking for additional activities. The park also features dedicated picnic areas with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for a family lunch or an afternoon barbecue after a swim session. Sports fields are also present, often used for local games and practices.
1500 Gateway Hills Park Dr · On siteAmes Bike Trails
The Ames greenbelt and bike trail system offers a network of paved pathways that are easily accessible from Gateway Hills Park. These trails are perfect for a leisurely bike ride, a brisk walk, or a relaxing jog amidst scenic Iowa landscapes. The trails connect various parks and neighborhoods throughout Ames, allowing for exploration beyond the immediate vicinity of the pool. Renting a bike in town or bringing your own provides a great way to experience the local environment and get some exercise before or after your swim. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Various access points within Gateway Hills Park · On site5–15 Minutes Away
Iowa State University Campus
The Iowa State University campus is a vibrant hub of activity and offers numerous attractions for visitors. Explore the beautiful campus grounds, including the picturesque central mall, the iconic campanile, and various gardens and art installations. The university is home to several museums, such as the Brunnier Art Museum and the Farm House Museum, offering cultural enrichment. Sporting events and performances are frequently held at campus venues like Jack Trice Stadium or Hilton Coliseum, providing entertainment options. Campus dining halls and cafes also offer diverse food choices.
Ames, IA · 3.5 miReiman Gardens
Reiman Gardens, located on the Iowa State University campus, is a stunning horticultural display and educational center. This 14-acre garden features a diverse array of themed areas, including a serene Japanese garden, a vibrant rose garden, and a captivating butterfly wing. The outdoor sculptures and art installations add another layer of visual interest throughout the grounds. It's a perfect place for a peaceful stroll, a family outing, or for anyone interested in botany and landscape design. Seasonal exhibits ensure there's always something new to discover.
1407 University Blvd · 3.2 miBeyond the Event: While Gateway Hills Pool is a destination in itself, the surrounding Gateway Hills Park provides immediate, easily accessible outdoor activities. For a broader experience, venturing a short distance to the Iowa State University campus or Reiman Gardens offers cultural and natural attractions. These locations are easily reachable by car within minutes, extending your recreational options beyond the aquatic environment.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Gateway Hills Pool
Inside & Adjacent
Poolside Concessions
The most convenient food option is the concessions stand located directly at Gateway Hills Pool. Typically offering a selection of classic poolside fare, visitors can find snacks, light meals, and refreshing beverages without leaving the facility. Items often include hot dogs, pizza slices, chips, ice cream, and a variety of soft drinks. This is an ideal choice for families looking to minimize downtime and keep the kids happy with familiar treats during a day at the pool. Seating is usually available in designated areas nearby.
1500 Gateway Hills Park Dr · On siteGateway Hills Park Picnic Areas
While not a formal restaurant, the extensive picnic areas within Gateway Hills Park serve as an excellent dining hub. Equipped with tables and often grills, these spots are perfect for groups and families to bring their own food and enjoy an outdoor meal. Packing a cooler with sandwiches, salads, and drinks allows for a customizable and budget-friendly dining experience. It’s a great way to recharge between swim sessions while enjoying the park's atmosphere. Remember to check park regulations regarding grilling and food storage.
1500 Gateway Hills Park Dr · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Ames Food Truck Hub
Located in downtown Ames, this informal hub often features a rotating selection of food trucks offering diverse culinary options. Visitors can find everything from gourmet burgers and tacos to international cuisine and sweet treats. It’s a casual and dynamic spot to grab lunch or a snack, providing a taste of local flavors. The open-air setting is pleasant during warmer months, and it offers a more adventurous dining experience compared to traditional restaurants. Check local listings for current truck schedules and locations.
Downtown Ames · ~10 min driveScheels Sporting Goods Cafe
Within the Scheels superstore, you'll find a convenient cafe offering a straightforward menu of classic American lunch items. This is a practical option for a quick bite while shopping or for a casual meal with family. Expect items like pizza, hot dogs, pretzels, and ice cream. It’s a no-fuss choice that allows you to refuel without venturing far from the sporting goods store's offerings. This spot is particularly useful if you're already in the area for shopping or other activities.
1115 N US Hwy 30 · ~5 min driveLocal & Elevated Picks
Ames Golf and Country Club Restaurant
The Ames Golf and Country Club offers a dining experience that combines good food with a pleasant atmosphere, often open to the public. Their menu typically features a range of American classics, with options for lunch and dinner, often including sandwiches, salads, and heartier entrees. It provides a slightly more refined setting than typical fast-casual spots, ideal for a relaxed meal after a day of activities. Enjoying a meal here can offer scenic views of the golf course.
100 Brickleberry Ln · ~10 min driveBlack Oak Grill
Located in downtown Ames, Black Oak Grill is a popular spot known for its diverse menu featuring American cuisine with a contemporary twist. They offer a variety of options including steaks, seafood, burgers, and salads, appealing to a wide range of tastes. The restaurant has a comfortable and inviting ambiance, suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings. It's a great place to explore if you're looking for a sit-down meal with quality food and service in the heart of Ames.
225 E Lincoln Way · ~10 min driveLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on University Boulevard can be heavy during Iowa State University's move-in/move-out days and major event weekends.
- Weekends are the busiest times for Gateway Hills Pool, especially during hot weather spells; weekday mornings offer a more relaxed experience.
- Local farmers markets are common in Ames during warmer months, providing fresh produce and local crafts on specific days.
- Parking within Gateway Hills Park can fill up quickly on holidays and during popular community events held in the park.
- Rideshare services are available in Ames but may have longer wait times during peak hours or in less central park locations.
Weather & Seasons at Gateway Hills Pool
- Winter: Winter in Ames brings cold temperatures, often with snow and ice. The pool is closed during these months. Visitors should pack heavy winter coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots for navigating the city and parks. Outdoor activities are limited to snowshoeing or enjoying the quiet, frozen landscapes.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings milder temperatures, with increasing warmth as summer approaches. Rainfall is common, and conditions can be unpredictable, ranging from cool and breezy to warm and sunny. Pack layers, including a light jacket or sweater, and always be prepared for rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the park.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer is typically hot and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching into the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. This is the prime time for pool use. Bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Staying hydrated is crucial; carry water bottles.
- Fall season: Fall offers crisp, cool air and beautiful foliage. Temperatures gradually decrease, making it pleasant for outdoor activities like walking through the park. Layers are key, with sweaters, light jackets, and comfortable pants being wardrobe staples. Evenings can become quite cool.
- Rain & snow: Ames receives both spring and fall rains, and winter snow. During rainy periods, bring umbrellas and waterproof outerwear; indoor attractions become more appealing. Snowfall can disrupt travel, so check road conditions before heading out. Snow accumulations necessitate warm, insulated clothing and appropriate footwear.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary facility: Gateway Hills Pool
- Neighborhood: Gateway Hills Park area
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Ample dedicated lots within Gateway Hills Park
- Walkable district: Gateway Hills Park trails and amenities
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Hy-Vee and Fareway nearby
- Pharmacy: CVS and Walgreens within a short drive
- Urgent care: McFarland Clinic Urgent Care
- Downtime: Ames Public Library, local cafes
- Pro tip: Check pool hours daily, as they can change seasonally or for special events.

