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Top 24 Hotels Near River Bend Municipal Golf Course
720 Forest Ave Story City, IA 50248
Americas Best Value Inn Story City
This accessible drive to River Bend Municipal Golf Course allows Americas Best Value Inn Story City to provide a convenient yet peaceful setting before the stay unfolds.
Americas Best Value Inn uses modest focal features—art, planters, or seasonal accents—to make the lobby feel welcoming without hindering movement. Guest rooms combine blackout treatments, quiet HVAC, and supportive linens to help travelers reset and be ready for early departures. Business centers supply computers, printers, and fast Wi-Fi, enabling last-minute printing, boarding passes, and simple prep on site.
From fitness centers with cardio and weights to towel service and pool access, daily maintenance and unwind are available without leaving the hotel.
Comfort Inn Story City
Because Comfort Inn Story City keeps River Bend Municipal Golf Course a simple drive, guests can choose to begin their day with a simple commute.
Upon entry Comfort Inn places charging ports and small work surfaces near seating to support quick email checks or device top-ups, for short tasks. Each guest room supplies quality linens, extra pillows, and a quiet HVAC profile to support consistent sleep across different time zones. Lobby markets stock packaged snacks, bottled drinks, and travel essentials that cover late arrivals and last-minute needs without leaving site.
From pet-friendly rooms, relief areas, laundry services, and on-site dining, longer stays remain manageable and family-ready.
Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus
The hotel's spot as a sensible base gives Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus guests options in how they plan their regional travel.
Quality Inn frames arrival with staffed front desks and visible reception seating so arriving guests orient quickly and move toward rooms. Standard rooms often include a compact coffee maker, microwave, and fridge so medication and quick breakfasts remain accessible at any hour. Bar areas and cafés produce espresso, light plates, and casual seating that anchor meet-ups before evening plans without long waits or complex reservations.
With shaded terraces, lounge seating, and coffee points, small groups find calm corners to plan, meet, or unwind between sessions on property.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG
River Bend Municipal Golf Course is an easy regional drive from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG, a layout that ensures travel logistics are never a concern.
Holiday Inn Express features complimentary breakfast areas visible from the lobby, providing clarity and convenience each morning. Suites add sofa beds, expanded seating, and multiple TVs, offering layouts that adapt well to groups or extended-stay travelers. Lobby areas with open layouts, communal tables, and bright lighting create social hubs that help travelers regroup during arrival.
Connectivity with free Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, and fitness rooms pairs with pools and parking, making travel stress-free and simple.
Days Inn by Wyndham Ames
Because Days Inn by Wyndham Ames is a convenient base, guests can choose to get to River Bend Municipal Golf Course refreshed after an easy drive.
From entrance to desk, Days Inn maintains open sightlines so new arrivals identify staff and next steps quickly day or night for clarity. Guest rooms support accessible configurations at select sites—roll-in showers, grab bars, and visual alerts—keeping routines predictable. Entry vestibules pair automatic doors with weather mats, keeping roll-ins smooth and thresholds tidy during busier arrival windows.
With guest laundry, folding ledges, and detergent vending plus Wi-Fi and seating, refresh cycles fit around meals, calls, and quiet time.
Hilton Garden Inn Ames
Reaching River Bend Municipal Golf Course from Hilton Garden Inn Ames is a direct drive, a feature that allows guests to ease into their day's schedule.
Sofa groupings inside Hilton Garden Inn receptions create intuitive rest points, allowing families to regroup calmly on arrival. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh with a touch of comfort and care. Lobbies combining community seating, lounge bars, and natural light create welcoming hubs that foster connection and clarity.
Valet parking, complimentary breakfast, rooftop pools, Wi-Fi connectivity, and fitness centers deliver ease that balances guest routines.
Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus
When visiting the Story City area, the drive from Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus to River Bend Municipal Golf Course is an easy regional drive, allowing for a simple return.
Comfort Inn arrival design favors direct routes from doors to elevators, keeping circulation intuitive for families and groups alike. Suites add expanded seating and larger surfaces that keep collaborative work or family packing habits separate from sleeping areas. Fitness studios may include stretching zones or yoga mats, offering low-impact recovery options for travelers between events or meetings.
Between meeting suites, reliable Wi-Fi, AV support, and catering, small events and briefings run smoothly with on-site support.
Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus
The easy regional drive from Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus to River Bend Municipal Golf Course in Story City guarantees the commute is genuinely efficient.
Sleep Inn provides accessible paths and seating near the desk, easing movement for travelers with wheeled luggage or brief mobility needs. Each guest room includes a microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker and thermostat control so short stays feel practical and self-sufficient. Club lounges offer quiet seating, beverage stations and light bites that let guests work or unwind with a sense of privacy and calm.
From complimentary Wi-Fi and a hot morning buffet to business services, vending, accessible parking and laundry, travel stays simple.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
Because GrandStay Hotel & Suites is a convenient base, guests can plan on a direct drive to River Bend Municipal Golf Course.
Guests at GrandStay Hotel & Suites may encounter quick check-in, self-serve coffee, and modest lobby seating focused on practical convenience. Accommodations often feature compact seating areas, work surfaces, and Wi-Fi, providing convenience for both rest and daily routines. Shared spaces may present vending corners, modest lobbies, and laundry rooms that reinforce straightforward consistency for travelers.
A stay often highlights Wi-Fi, vending areas, modest breakfast, and guest laundries, helping sustain clear routines for daily visitors.
Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG
When the primary destination in the Story City area is River Bend Municipal Golf Course, Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG's position as a sensible base allows the focus to remain on the visit.
At many addresses, Staybridge Suites keeps The Pantry open 24/7, reducing off-site errands when plans change or cafés are closed. All guest rooms place a multipurpose table near seating, doubling as a laptop station or dining surface when timing compresses as needed. Patios with shade sails or heaters expand seating options, keeping outdoor breaks comfortable across different conditions and seasons.
A lounge nook with outlets, Wi-Fi, and coffee sits near printing and meeting space, making uploads and last copies uncomplicated on site.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames
This practical base helps Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames guests feel acquainted with the local Story City area without a long drive.
With pet-friendly welcome touches at reception, Home2 Suites shows care for families traveling with animals, easing arrivals smoothly. Each guest room provides entertainment systems, climate control, and blackout curtains, ensuring both relaxation and nightly comfort. Guests using the business center find computers, printers, and shared desks, providing resources for productivity during travel days.
Guests access laundry areas, breakfast service, pet-friendly rooms, and Wi-Fi, supporting longer visits with consistent reliability.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ames
Reaching River Bend Municipal Golf Course from TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ames is an easy regional drive, a trait that weaves simplicity into the guest's daily routine.
Lobby layout at TownePlace Suites blends beverage stations and signage with seating, offering clarity and comfort as guests check in. Guest rooms offer ergonomic chairs and refrigerators, supporting gentle transitions between productivity and refreshment during stays. Lobby seating clusters utilize armchairs and sip holders, forging casual comfort zones that welcome friendly drops and solo planning alike.
Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and fitness center supply accessible connectivity, nourishment, and energy, helping guests stay balanced and motivated each day.
Sonesta Essential Ames
The benefit of using Sonesta Essential Ames as a practical base renders it into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
Upon entering, Sonesta Essential's lobby layout emphasizes short paths from entry to seating and service points to help guests orient quickly. Guest rooms center the bed with bedside tables, supportive pillows, and reading lamps to create a calm wind-down space after busy days. Lobby workspaces combine communal tables, individual nooks, and abundant outlets, making quick email checks and map reviews straightforward.
With hot buffet or grab-and-go breakfast, reliable Wi-Fi, a fitness room, meeting space, and laundry, daily rhythms stay intact and ready.
Red Roof Inn Ames
For visitors to the region, Red Roof Inn Ames is a convenient base, keeping River Bend Municipal Golf Course within driving reach.
Red Roof Inn keeps its arrival process uncomplicated and swift, recognizing that roadside travelers prioritize getting to their room to rest. With free premium cable including HBO, guest rooms provide a cost-effective entertainment option that many economy hotels do not offer. Outdoor pools provide a welcome break from the road, offering a fun, free amenity for guests to enjoy some leisure time and fresh air.
The combination of free parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, a pet-friendly policy, and guest laundry facilities simplifies any road trip.
Courtyard by Marriott Ames
The hotel's location is characterized by its simple regional access to River Bend Municipal Golf Course, which is an easy regional drive away.
In Courtyard arrivals, beverage stations and clear reception desks combine to reduce stress and create dependable daily routines. Guest rooms supply blackout drapes, pillow menus, and soft bedding, rituals that sustain restful sleep and refreshed mornings daily. At the lobby lounge, modular seating, lighting, and community tables create comfortable spaces for casual work or conversation.
With meeting facilities, indoor pools, pet-friendly policies, and valet parking, Courtyard balances flexibility with reliability daily.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames
When staying in the Story City area, the uncomplicated drive from Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames to River Bend Municipal Golf Course remains a low-stress start to the day.
Fairfield Inn orients the lobby core so reception, a grab-and-go Corner Market, and outlet-rich seating sit in one sightline for fast first moves. All guest rooms highlight plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate control, supporting reliable comfort that prepares travelers daily. Breakfast halls present hot items, fruit, and oatmeal with coffee service, supporting dependable mornings that feel routine across visits.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, self-parking, hot breakfast service, and fitness centers create reliable services that keep travel straightforward daily.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames
The easy regional drive from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames to River Bend Municipal Golf Course in Story City means guests a simple and reliable way to get to their destination.
SpringHill Suites uses modern lighting and clear reception sightlines to project order, helping first-time guests orient in seconds. Suites combine lounge seating, sofa beds, and entertainment options, providing families with flexible setups for rest, relaxation, and leisure. The breakfast area features cereals, waffles, and fruit alongside juice, ensuring dependable options for travelers beginning their day refreshed.
With a 24/7 Market, indoor pool, business center access, and hot breakfast, guests enjoy everyday convenience supported by reliable amenities.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ames
A notable advantage of Hampton Inn & Suites Ames in Story City is its role as a convenient base, making regional travel to River Bend Municipal Golf Course simple.
Digital check-in tools in Hampton Inn receptions ensure loyalty members experience smoother arrivals with dependable recognition. All guest rooms provide blackout curtains, quiet climate systems, and plush mattresses, supporting environments that ensure restful sleep. Lobby markets with packaged meals, drinks, and sundries support convenience, helping travelers meet daily needs quickly and easily.
Pet-friendly services, hot breakfast bags, Pavilion Pantry access, Wi-Fi, and self-parking simplify travel by covering daily guest needs.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames
Reaching River Bend Municipal Golf Course from Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames is a direct drive, a trait that contributes to a well-planned and easy stay.
Microtel’s 24/7 desk at many sites resolves last-minute changes on the spot, turning unpredictable arrivals into manageable first minutes. All guest rooms supply an iron with board, a hair dryer, and towels, keeping routines familiar without extra errands after check-in. Courtyard patios cluster chairs and planters in quiet corners, helping energy rebound gently between outings without leaving the hotel.
Between free Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and a market near reception, errands shrink and evenings keep a calm cadence each day.
Baymont by Wyndham Ames
Within the region, Baymont by Wyndham Ames is a convenient base, a detail that delivers a sense of connection to River Bend Municipal Golf Course.
Near reception, Baymont may stage a computer and printer nook so boarding passes and confirmations finish fast without extra errands. Guest rooms pair blackout drapes with quiet climate control and free Wi-Fi, while bedside outlets keep phones and alarms ready overnight. Wayfinding pairs icon signage with room-range boards at elevator banks, making routes to markets, restrooms, and meeting rooms direct.
Free Wi-Fi, guest laundry, and vending pair with a computer station and seating, keeping cycles, snacks, and checks in one loop.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA
In Story City, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA is situated as a practical base, a feature that helps for simple daily travel.
Radisson sets upfront lobby pathways from curb to desk and market, creating a short arrival flow that reduces first-hour wayfinding friction. Guest rooms add practical amenities like a mini-fridge, microwave, and clear surface space so quick meals and snacks are effortless at any hour. Conference suites combine projector setups, breakout alcoves, and staffed support, simplifying event logistics for planners and small teams.
Between on-site dining, free internet, fitness access, pool seating, meetings, and laundry, travelers find both refreshment and practical support.
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
For guests in the Story City area, AmericInn by Wyndham Ames is a practical base, a position that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
Travelers get a calm pause as seating set back from the entry at Wyndham reduces door traffic, letting them collect themselves before rooms. Guest rooms come with clean, hypoallergenic cleaning protocols, plush pillows, and clear luggage areas, helping sensitive guests rest easier. Meeting rooms include AV setups, adjustable lighting, and modular seating, helping groups run efficient sessions without extra logistical headaches.
Free high-speed Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, hot breakfast, business printers, on-site parking, and laundry keep stays simple and efficient.
Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites
River Bend Municipal Golf Course is a simple commute from Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites, a detail that allows for confident and easy journeys.
Best Western places restrooms just off the lobby path where possible, providing quick relief and minimizing detours during the arrival process. Every guest room typically features a shower/tub combo and familiar toiletries, making quick refreshes consistent across trip days. Fitness studios at larger properties add ellipticals and rowers, maintaining variety when training needs extend beyond basic cardio machines.
From airport transfers where offered, Wi-Fi, fitness spaces, and vending, itineraries keep momentum while essentials remain on site.
Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University
For a visit combining key destinations, Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University is a practical base, keeping River Bend Municipal Golf Course an easy regional drive away.
Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University often welcomes arrivals with curated interiors, artisanal refreshments, and small-scale concierge service. Rooms typically present artisanal interiors, curated décor, and plush bedding designed for a personalized boutique experience. Amenities typically feature curated lounges, stylish cocktail bars, and small dining spaces that reflect boutique guest character.
A stay may include Wi-Fi, EV charging, artisanal snacks, and laundry support, reinforcing boutique practicality for modern travel.
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River Bend Municipal Golf Course Local Area Guide
Welcome to River Bend Municipal Golf Course, a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels in Story City, Iowa. This guide is designed for players, coaches, and families preparing for a round or a tournament, offering insights into the course layout, nearby amenities, and planning your visit. Navigate your golf outing with confidence by understanding the rhythm of game day, from check-in and warm-ups to regrouping and departure, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience on and off the green.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – River Bend Municipal Golf Course (Story City, IA)
River Bend Municipal Golf Course is situated on the eastern edge of Story City, a charming community just north of Ames, Iowa. The course is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 30, which runs east-west and connects to Interstate 35 for broader regional travel. Forest Avenue provides direct access to the course entrance. For those flying in, Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the primary gateway, located approximately 50 miles south. The drive from DSM to River Bend typically takes about an hour, depending on traffic and time of day, primarily utilizing I-35 North. Local transit options are limited in Story City, making a personal vehicle or rideshare service the most practical ways to reach the course. Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your tee time, especially on busy weekends or during organized events, to allow ample time for check-in, equipment preparation, and a brief warm-up. The proximity to Ames also offers a wider range of hotel and dining options, though the immediate area around the course is more residential and rural.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near River Bend Municipal Golf Course
Within Story City, lodging options are more limited but provide a convenient base for many visitors. Hotels and motels are concentrated closer to the Highway 30 corridor. The larger city of Ames, located about 15 minutes south, offers a broader selection of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly motels to more upscale accommodations, often associated with Iowa State University. Many golf groups and families opt for hotels in Ames for better amenities and dining variety. River Bend itself is best accessed by car; while the course is located in a primarily residential area, it's not a destination that facilitates extensive walkability to shops or entertainment outside of the immediate golf facility. Demand for accommodations can spike during local tournaments, university events in Ames, and peak golfing seasons in late spring and summer. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, particularly if you have specific hotel preferences or are traveling with a group. Utilizing map filters for hotels in both Story City and Ames can help identify the best options based on proximity, price, and amenities that suit your team or family’s needs.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is about 1 hour away by car.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early for check-in and warm-up before your tee time.
- The clubhouse offers snacks and drinks for a quick break between holes.
- Indoor practice facilities or nearby Ames venues can serve as a rainy-day fallback.
- The clubhouse patio is a great spot for teams to regroup after their round.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan your arrival to allow ample time before your scheduled tee time, ideally 30 to 45 minutes prior. This buffer ensures you can complete the check-in process at the pro shop without feeling rushed, confirm your group’s starting hole, and make any necessary payment arrangements. Afterward, make your way to the practice green or driving range to dial in your putting and iron shots. Familiarizing yourself with the feel of the greens and getting a few swings in can significantly boost your confidence as you head to the first tee. Confirming any specific tournament or league rules during check-in is also a wise step.
Mid-Day Regroup
As you transition between nines or during longer breaks between rounds for multi-team events, utilize the clubhouse amenities for a brief regroup. The pro shop often carries snacks, beverages, and basic golf supplies you might need. For a more substantial break, consider the on-site dining options or a short drive to Story City for a local cafe. This downtime is crucial for discussing strategy, rehydrating, and mentally preparing for the back nine. It’s also a good opportunity to check on other team members or coordinate any family activities planned around the golf day.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Following your final putt, take a moment to submit your scorecard at the pro shop and gather with your playing partners. The clubhouse area, including its patio or seating areas, provides a comfortable spot to review your game, share highlights, and relax after the round. If you’ve rented a cart, ensure it’s returned to the designated area. Before departing, consider a quick stop at the pro shop for any merchandise or to settle any outstanding balances. If your group plans a post-round meal or celebration, the surrounding areas of Story City or Ames offer various dining establishments for a more formal gathering.
Things to Do Near River Bend Municipal Golf Course
Walkable
River Bend Municipal Golf Course Clubhouse
The heart of the golf experience at River Bend is its clubhouse. This facility houses the pro shop, which is well-stocked with golf essentials, apparel, and accessories. Here, players can rent clubs and carts, purchase range balls, and get information about course conditions and tee times. The clubhouse also often features a snack bar or grill, offering a convenient spot for a quick bite or refreshing drink before or after a round, or during a brief interlude between nines. It serves as the primary gathering point for golfers and often hosts small events or league check-ins, making it a central hub for your golf day.
On siteStory City Main Street
A short drive or a brisk walk from the golf course leads to Story City's quaint Main Street. This area offers a glimpse into the town's local charm, featuring a collection of small businesses, antique shops, and eateries. It’s a pleasant place to stroll after a round of golf, perhaps to browse unique finds, grab a coffee, or enjoy a casual lunch at a local diner. The peaceful atmosphere provides a nice contrast to the focus required on the golf course, making it a relaxing spot for visitors to experience a bit of local life and unwind.
1.5 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Story City Aquatic Center
During warmer months, the Story City Aquatic Center provides a refreshing option for families and groups looking to cool off. Located within the town’s park system, it typically features swimming pools suitable for leisure and recreation. It’s an ideal spot for children to enjoy during downtime while older players are on the course, or for a relaxed afternoon activity after a morning of golf. Check their operating hours and any admission fees in advance, as they are seasonal and can vary.
2.0 miCentral Iowa Railway Museum
For those interested in local history and transportation, the Central Iowa Railway Museum in Story City offers a unique diversion. This museum showcases the area's railway heritage through exhibits and artifacts, providing an educational and interesting experience. It's a compact attraction that can be explored in a relatively short amount of time, making it suitable for a quick visit between golf rounds or as an alternative activity for non-golfers in the group. It offers a quiet, reflective experience away from the energy of the golf course.
2.5 miBeyond the Event: Venture slightly further to Ames, and you'll find a wider array of attractions including Iowa State University campus tours, the Reiman Gardens, and a more diverse selection of shopping and entertainment venues. These options cater to various interests and can easily fill an afternoon or a full day, providing ample choices for those seeking activities beyond the golf course itself. The accessibility of these larger amenities enhances the overall visit for families or groups with varied preferences.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near River Bend Municipal Golf Course
Inside & Adjacent
River Bend Snack Bar / Grill
The River Bend Municipal Golf Course often features an on-site snack bar or grill within its clubhouse. This convenient facility is perfect for golfers needing a quick breakfast, a satisfying lunch between nines, or a post-round refreshment. Expect casual fare like sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and a selection of beverages. It’s the most immediate option for refueling, allowing players to maximize their time on the course without significant travel. Check their operating hours, as they may be seasonal or dependent on golf course activity.
On siteLocal Eateries in Story City
The heart of Story City, particularly along Main Street, hosts several local dining establishments. These range from casual cafes and diners to perhaps a small pizza parlor or family restaurant. They offer a taste of local flavor and a relaxed atmosphere for a meal. It’s a good option for groups seeking a less hurried dining experience than the quick service at a golf course snack bar, and it allows visitors to experience the community ambiance. Look for places that offer hearty meals suitable for fueling up before or after a strenuous day on the links.
1.5 miNearby Gathering Spots
Fareway Grocery Store (Story City)
While not a traditional restaurant, the Fareway grocery store in Story City provides an excellent option for groups looking to assemble their own meals or stock up on snacks and beverages for a day of golf. Many teams and families find it convenient to pick up items like sandwiches, fruit, chips, and drinks here to create a personalized picnic to enjoy during longer breaks or to take home. It’s a cost-effective solution for feeding a group and offers flexibility for dietary preferences.
1.8 miAmes Restaurants (Various)
A short 10-15 minute drive south to Ames opens up a vast array of dining possibilities. Ames boasts numerous chain restaurants offering familiar menus, as well as a growing number of independent eateries featuring diverse cuisines from Mexican and Italian to Asian and American pub fare. This area is ideal for groups wanting to celebrate after a tournament, find specific dietary options, or simply enjoy a wider selection of dining experiences. Many establishments cater well to larger groups and offer a lively atmosphere.
10-15 min driveLocal & Elevated Picks
Great Plains Theatre (Story City)
The Great Plains Theatre in Story City, while primarily a performance venue, often has concessions or partners with local eateries for pre-show or inter-mission dining options. It represents a community hub that can offer a unique evening out, potentially combined with dinner. If they offer full dining or have arrangements with nearby restaurants, it can provide a more culturally engaged experience for visitors looking for something beyond typical sports-focused dining. It’s worth checking their schedule and dining partnerships.
1.6 miIowa State University Area Restaurants (Ames)
The areas around Iowa State University in Ames are populated with restaurants and pubs that cater to students, faculty, and visitors, often providing good value and a vibrant atmosphere. You can find everything from lively sports bars perfect for discussing the game to more refined dining options. Many establishments offer happy hour specials and are accustomed to handling groups, making them suitable for post-event gatherings. This district provides a dynamic dining scene that complements a day of outdoor activity.
12-18 min driveLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Traffic on Highway 30 can be congested during peak commuting hours and Ames event days; plan accordingly.
- Weekend mornings at River Bend are busiest from April through October; book tee times well in advance.
- Story City’s downtown area can be quiet on Sundays; confirm operating hours for local shops and eateries.
- Many local restaurants in Ames and Story City are accustomed to accommodating larger groups after sporting events.
- Consider carpooling to the course if traveling with multiple vehicles to simplify parking during busy periods.
Weather & Seasons at River Bend Municipal Golf Course
- Winter: Winter in Story City brings cold temperatures, with average highs often remaining below freezing. Snowfall is common, blanketing the course and rendering it unplayable. Visitors should pack heavy winter coats, insulated layers, hats, and gloves. Outdoor activities are limited, and travel may be affected by icy roads; indoor pursuits are the primary focus during this season.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer offer pleasant and increasingly warm temperatures, ideal for golf. Expect average highs in the 60s and 70s, with cooler mornings and evenings. Light jackets or long-sleeved shirts are recommended for early tee times. Rainfall is possible, so bringing a rain jacket and umbrella is a good idea to stay comfortable during unpredictable showers.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from July through August, is typically the warmest period, with average highs often reaching the upper 80s and sometimes into the 90s. Sunscreen, hats, and light, breathable clothing are essential. Staying hydrated is critical; carry plenty of water and consider taking advantage of the course’s water stations or snack bar. Early morning or late afternoon tee times are often preferred to avoid the midday heat.
- Fall season: Fall brings a refreshing crispness to the air, with average highs gradually cooling from the 70s into the 50s and 40s by late autumn. Layering clothing becomes key, with T-shirts suitable for sunny afternoons, while sweaters or light jackets are needed for cooler mornings and evenings. The vibrant fall foliage can make for a picturesque golfing experience, but shorter daylight hours may affect later tee times.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur year-round but is more common in spring and summer. Light showers might necessitate a waterproof jacket and umbrella, while heavier downpours could lead to course delays or cancellations. Snow is exclusive to winter months, typically from December to February, covering the course and closing it until conditions improve. Always check course status before heading out during inclement weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: N/A (Municipal Golf Course)
- Neighborhood: East Story City
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Pro shop lot, adjacent street parking
- Walkable district: Limited (clubhouse, small downtown area)
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Fareway (Story City)
- Pharmacy: CVS or Walgreens (Ames)
- Urgent care: Mary Greeley Medical Center (Ames)
- Downtime: Story City parks, Ames attractions
- Pro tip: Stay hydrated and check weather forecasts, especially in summer and during spring storms.

