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Top 24 Hotels Near Ames ISU ICE Arena
1505 Gateway Hills Park D Ames, IA 50014
Hilton Garden Inn Ames
In Ames, Hilton Garden Inn Ames provides a location that is an easy drive from Ames ISU ICE Arena, letting the stay begin on a positive and convenient note.
Hilton Garden Inn receptions with modern finishes and open layouts create dependable first impressions and orientation clarity. Each suite offers large vanities, premium bath products, and bright lighting, giving travelers comfort and ease during morning routines. Pavilion Pantry markets with packaged meals, bottled drinks, and frozen items deliver immediate convenience that reduces travel stress.
Pet services, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, fitness studios, and Pavilion Pantry options keep guest routines balanced and stress-free.
Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus
For visitors to Ames, Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus is an easy drive from Ames ISU ICE Arena, a detail that supports a stress-free travel plan.
Upon entry, Sleep Inn's reception backdrop and natural tones set a quieter mood, helping travelers decompress after long journeys. Each suite offers a sofa bed, a mini-fridge, a microwave and a sizeable desk, helping mixed-use stays run without friction. Guest laundries pair energy-efficient washers, clear instructions and a folding station so clothing care is straightforward mid-stay.
Between complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, a gym, meeting rooms, EV charging at select hotels and laundry, stays support daily routines.
Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University
The benefit of a simple drive to Ames ISU ICE Arena turns Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University into a great starting point before the rest of the stay unfolds.
At Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University, guests are often greeted with eclectic décor, intimate seating, and staff providing warm boutique-style welcomes. Accommodations may provide stylish interiors, premium linens, and artisanal décor that contribute to a boutique-oriented stay. Facilities often highlight farm-to-table dining, co-working nooks, and cozy lounges that create a polished boutique-style impression.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry facilities, and yoga mats, ensuring boutique routines remain consistent.
Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites
In Ames, Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites is situated a short drive from Ames ISU ICE Arena, which ensures a simple commute.
When rain or heat arrives, Best Western stations attendants at doors and maintains mats, keeping footing safe as movements continue toward reception. All guest rooms may offer laptop-size safes, hangers, and luggage racks, helping essentials stay organized and accessible throughout stays. Breakfast areas arrange hot items, cereals, fruit, and coffee taps, giving mornings structure so departures and plans begin on clear footing.
With EV charging where offered, self-parking, Wi-Fi, and airport shuttles, mobility and planning link cleanly as routes and times change.
Spark by Hilton Ames
From the moment you arrive at Spark by Hilton Ames, Ames ISU ICE Arena is a short drive for easy access, making for an easy start.
Hilton provides lobby beverage stations, rituals of comfort that reflect care and ensure travelers start their stay with consistency. Each guest room presents smart TVs, bedside charging, and mini-fridges, ensuring travelers enjoy convenience and relaxation together. At the meeting facilities, flexible layouts, conference tables, and audiovisual equipment provide practical convenience for groups.
With indoor pools, hot breakfast, Wi-Fi, and valet parking, Hilton ensures consistency and reliability across every property visit.
Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus
From Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus, Ames ISU ICE Arena is a straightforward drive, a feature that makes the entire area feel more accessible.
At the threshold Comfort Inn places visible wayfinding to breakfast and business services so morning departures happen smoothly. Suites may include dining-height counters or tables that double as workspaces, giving small groups easy spots for planning or meals. Meeting suites include pre-function areas with water and coffee so sessions start on time and attendees convene comfortably.
From pools and fitness rooms to meeting suites and reliable Wi-Fi, guests find on-property options that reduce off-site detours.
Days Inn by Wyndham Ames
The hotel's spot a straightforward drive from Ames ISU ICE Arena gives Days Inn by Wyndham Ames guests a simple option for their daily commute.
Lobby acoustics at Days Inn favor soft music and modest TV volume, keeping conversations comfortable as people pass through the space. Every guest room leaves clear floor space around the bed and entry, easing luggage movement and late-night walks without clutter. Shared lounges keep background TV volume modest and lighting soft, preserving comfortable conversation across mixed seating.
Market coolers, packaged meals, and utensils with microwaves and Wi-Fi make casual dining come together quickly without a drive.
Courtyard by Marriott Ames
In Ames, Courtyard by Marriott Ames has a easy-transit location keeping Ames ISU ICE Arena a direct run, letting guests move at their own pace.
With The Bistro visible from the lobby, Courtyard signals convenience, letting guests plan food and drinks without leaving the entry zone. Suites supply flexible layouts, sofa seating, and hardwood details, providing stylish comfort that remains consistent worldwide. Guests visiting the business center use shared computers, printers, and Wi-Fi, essential tools that simplify productivity on the go.
Guests enjoy pet-friendly rooms, 24/7 markets, meeting facilities, and fitness centers, ensuring flexible comfort across extended stays.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
Ames ISU ICE Arena is within easy reach of GrandStay Hotel & Suites, a design that offers a simple way to get there before the stay.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites typically offers a compact front desk, complimentary parking, and modest lobby space aligned with routine travel needs. Rooms may include premium linens, rainfall showers, and hardwood floors that contribute to a practical yet stylish environment for rest. Facilities may highlight compact lobbies, vending machines, and breakfast corners that provide guests with clarity during their visits.
A visit may present Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending machines, and guest laundry, giving travelers consistency throughout their stays.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames
At SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames, Ames ISU ICE Arena is within easy reach, a key aspect that enhances the freedom of the guest.
West elm furnishings integrated into SpringHill Suites lobbies create modern arrival cues that reflect thoughtful detail and stylish comfort. Each suite integrates lounge seating, a west elm sofa, and ergonomic chairs, offering flexible space where families or groups can relax together. The indoor pool provides ample towels, bright décor, and safe depth markers, ensuring travelers can enjoy downtime in a relaxed environment.
Complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, flexible meeting rooms, and a 24/7 Market combine to support productivity while keeping travel simple.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ames
At TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ames, Ames ISU ICE Arena is an uncomplicated drive for visiting families, enhancing the visit.
TowneMap® lobby walls in TownePlace Suites highlight attractions and transit, giving arrivals immediate orientation and purposeful direction. Suites present functional work desks, roomy storage, and TV media, giving travelers spaces that flex effortlessly between task and pause. Kitchenette zone offers pantry racks and coffee service, supporting guests who need quick refreshment and familiar convenience.
Convenience store, outdoor patio, and free breakfast combine provisioning, leisure, and morning nourishment into single support flow.
Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG
Ames ISU ICE Arena is a simple drive of Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG, a feature that allows for confident and easy journeys.
With automatic doors and level thresholds, Staybridge Suites keeps carts and strollers moving smoothly through the vestibule at peaks. All guest rooms place a multipurpose table near seating, doubling as a laptop station or dining surface when timing compresses as needed. Vending banks place cold drinks and microwavables along main corridors so late arrivals cover basics quickly without having to backtrack.
From courtyard tables and shade to grills and a fire feature plus a market and Wi-Fi, outdoor time stays comfortable and covered on site.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames
This useful location means Ames ISU ICE Arena is an easy drive from Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames, allowing for a smooth start to the day.
Upon arrival, Home2 Suites ensures clear signage directs guests toward reception, reducing confusion and maintaining a smooth process. Guest rooms include streaming TVs, charging hubs, and Wi-Fi, helping visitors unwind with entertainment and stay connected daily. In the laundry room, washers, dryers, and folding surfaces simplify routines, giving travelers dependable ways to manage clothing.
Guests enjoy Inspired Table® breakfast, outdoor patios, laundry access, and Wi-Fi, making extended stays convenient and reliable.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ames
Reaching Ames ISU ICE Arena from Hampton Inn & Suites Ames is an easy drive, a quality that weaves convenience into the start of any day.
Grab-and-go markets at Hampton Inn receptions stock snacks and beverages, supporting arrivals with practical convenience instantly. Guest rooms include blackout curtains, premium bedding, and climate control, giving guests restful environments that support quality sleep nightly. Lobby markets with packaged meals, drinks, and sundries support convenience, helping travelers meet daily needs quickly and easily.
Pet-friendly policies, complimentary internet, business spaces, laundry access, and hot breakfast bags keep travel flexible for families.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive of Ames ISU ICE Arena gives Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames guests a easy way to manage their daily schedule.
Fairfield Inn arranges work nooks and communal tables in the lobby so brief email checks and map reviews can happen without leaving the property. Guest rooms contain branded bath amenities, shower/tub combos, and bright mirrors, ensuring personal care routines are clear and dependable. Breakfast rooms highlight scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and yogurt alongside coffee, creating structured morning habits families can count on daily.
Free Wi-Fi, business center access, complimentary breakfast, and fitness rooms ensure both productivity and wellness remain consistent during stays.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames
This uncomplicated drive to Ames ISU ICE Arena helps Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames guests get more connected to the Ames area.
Microtel keeps luggage carts by entrances at many hotels, shortening the trip from car to room so families settle faster after check-in. Every guest room includes an HDTV opposite the bed with channels, making unwind time easy after long highway miles each night. Breakfast rooms handle flow with tray returns, juice dispensers, and clear signage, keeping early starts orderly on tight schedules daily.
For families, breakfast, Wi-Fi, cribs on request, and guest laundry combine with a pool to keep logistics tidy across longer weekends.
Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus
The hotel's location is a strategic choice, keeping Ames ISU ICE Arena a simple drive and framing the stay around automotive access.
Quality Inn arrival cues—lighting, signage, staff presence, and seating—combine to create a tidy, dependable first impression on arrival. Guest rooms include sound-mitigating finishes or sealed windows where available, helping reduce external noise for more consistent rest. Business support desks handle parcel acceptance, printing, and basic supplies, simplifying event logistics and last-minute materials on site.
Between fitness centers, pools, laundry, and meeting space, guests find core needs bundled so travel routines remain efficient and predictable.
Sonesta Essential Ames
The journey from Sonesta Essential Ames to Ames ISU ICE Arena is a simple drive, a benefit that contributes to an effortless visit.
To enable short work bursts, Sonesta Essential arranges charging stations at communal tables so devices recharge while you plan the day ahead. All guest rooms provide convenient bedside charging, a readable clock, and discreet storage, so routines and departures stay smooth. Guest laundries include washers, dryers, and folding counters, helping families and long-stay guests keep gear organized across multi-day stays.
Between pool or fitness options, business services, market counters, laundry, and parking, guests handle plans with less friction.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG
For a trip to Ames, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG's location an easy drive from Ames ISU ICE Arena is a fundamental piece of its appeal.
Holiday Inn Express reception areas are positioned in full view, making orientation clear for both first-time and returning guests. Guest rooms emphasize branded bath products, walk-in showers, and linens, refreshing travelers morning and evening consistently. Lobby seating zones arranged with lounge chairs, tables, and bright lighting offer regrouping areas and orientation clarity for guests.
Complimentary breakfast, pet-friendly accommodations, and Wi-Fi connect with laundry and parking, supporting varied guest needs.
Red Roof Inn Ames
From Red Roof Inn Ames, Ames ISU ICE Arena is an uncomplicated drive, a feature that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
Welcoming staff at Red Roof Inn are prepared to handle quick check-ins, recognizing the guest's need for an efficient and simple process. Comfortable mattresses and high-quality pillows are standard in all rooms, reflecting the brand's core focus on providing a great sleep. Well-maintained pet areas underscore the brand's commitment to animal guests, making the stay more comfortable for them and their owners.
From free Wi-Fi and premium TV for entertainment to a pool for recreation, the hotel provides a well-rounded and affordable experience.
Baymont by Wyndham Ames
Upon arrival at Baymont by Wyndham Ames, Ames ISU ICE Arena is a simple cross-town drive for a simple journey, simplifying your visit.
Baymont maintains a 24/7 front desk, keeping late arrivals simple and questions answered without detours after a long drive. Guest rooms route solid doors and blackout liners to curb corridor light and noise, supporting focused sleep across varied schedules. Ice rooms and vending sit near the lobby corridor, creating a quick-stop cluster that keeps essentials close to elevators and exits.
Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a fitness room connect with a pool and guest laundry, keeping connection, energy, and refreshes aligned.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA
This practical location means Ames ISU ICE Arena is a simple drive from Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA, allowing for a smooth start to the day.
Radisson sometimes provides complimentary coffee and tea at the lobby counter, giving a familiar pause point that helps reset after travel. Every guest room features a dedicated work surface, multiple USB outlets, good task lighting, and storage so short work sprints stay productive. Poolside seating areas provide loungers, umbrellas, and side tables, helping guests relax between activities and keep daily plans on track.
Offering meetings, business services, Wi-Fi, a gym, on-site dining, and laundry, properties support both events and everyday downtime.
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
From the moment you arrive at AmericInn by Wyndham Ames, Ames ISU ICE Arena is a simple drive for easy access, making for an easy start.
Ambient music and balanced lighting set a composed Wyndham lobby tone, easing travel stress as guests shift into unpacking and rest. All guest rooms, helping guests relax and reset after travel, offer plush pillow-top bedding, streaming-capable TVs, and ample lighting. Lobby seating includes sofas, small tables, and charging stations, creating regrouping points where teams coordinate plans before heading out.
High-speed internet, breakfast windows, business printer access, pool seating, pet policies, and shuttle pickups support varied traveler needs.
Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Boone
The benefit of using Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Boone as a practical base turns it into a great anchor point before the main experience.
Arrivals at Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Boone may present quick desk service, self-serve beverages, and accessible parking that emphasize easy transitions. Each guest room typically provides climate control, compact seating, and in-room coffee, reinforcing comfort and daily travel routines. Public areas often showcase vending access, modest seating, and laundry rooms that maintain functional routines for budget travelers.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, laundry access, and vending areas, ensuring straightforward balance during travel.
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Ames ISU ICE Arena Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Ames ISU Ice Arena, a hub for hockey, figure skating, and public ice activities in Ames, Iowa. This guide is designed for players, coaches, families, and fans heading to the arena, providing essential information to enhance your visit. Discover parking tips, nearby dining options, local attractions, and the best ways to navigate your schedule around ice times. Prepare for a smooth experience, whether you're here for a tournament, a public skate, or to cheer on your favorite team.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Ames ISU Ice Arena (Ames, IA)
The Ames ISU Ice Arena is strategically located in the Gateway Hills Park area on the south side of Ames, offering convenient access from major routes. Situated near the intersection of Interstate 35 and Highway 30, it’s an easy drive for visitors coming from across Iowa or beyond. The arena benefits from its proximity to Iowa State University, which influences the local atmosphere and amenities. Parking is ample and generally straightforward, with dedicated lots surrounding the facility designed to accommodate both daily users and larger event crowds. For those arriving from further afield, Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is approximately a 45-minute to an hour's drive north, providing major airline access. Public transportation options within Ames are somewhat limited, making car or rideshare services the most common ways to reach the arena for those not driving directly. Planning your arrival to account for potential game-day traffic, especially during peak youth hockey or ISU sporting event times, is always a wise strategy.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Ames ISU Ice Arena
Hotel accommodations in Ames are primarily clustered around the Iowa State University campus and the central downtown area, placing most options about a 10 to 15-minute drive from the Ice Arena. While there aren't many hotels directly adjacent to the arena, the nearby commercial zones offer a range of choices from budget-friendly motels to more established hotel chains. Many visiting teams and families opt for accommodations closer to the university to take advantage of dining and entertainment options available there. Demand for hotels typically spikes during major tournaments, ISU hockey games, or other large-scale events hosted at the arena. To secure the best rates and availability, it is highly recommended to book accommodations well in advance, especially if your visit coincides with a known local event. Utilizing hotel booking sites with map views can help you pinpoint locations that balance proximity to the Ice Arena with desired amenities and price points.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is about a 50-minute drive.
- Parking: Ample free parking is available in the lots surrounding the arena.
- Walkable hangout: Gateway Hills Park offers outdoor space for stretching or relaxing.
- Rainy-day fallback: Explore the Iowa State University campus or Ames Public Library.
- Regroup zone: The arena lobby provides a central meeting point before or after skates.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Arrive with sufficient time to find parking and navigate to the arena entrance, especially if you have a specific ice time or game. Allow at least 15-20 minutes for locker room access and to get your gear ready before stepping onto the ice. Utilize the arena lobby for gathering and last-minute coordination with your team or group. Take advantage of any designated warm-up areas or the concourse space to get physically and mentally prepared for your activity. Ensure all players have their equipment checked and that coaches have finalized any pre-game instructions.
Mid-Day Regroup
Plan for breaks between games or sessions by identifying comfortable spots in the arena or nearby. The arena concourse can be a good place to store bags and have quick snacks, though dedicated team areas may be limited. If weather permits, stepping outside to Gateway Hills Park can offer a refreshing change of scenery and space to stretch. Consider nearby casual dining options for team meals to refuel and relax before your next ice time. Staying hydrated and managing energy levels are key during longer event days with multiple ice sessions.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Allow ample time for post-activity procedures, including equipment breakdown, cool-down routines, and returning the locker room to its original condition. Coordinate with your team for a final regrouping or debriefing session in the lobby or a designated area. Be mindful of other groups arriving or departing as you exit, maintaining smooth traffic flow in the parking lot. If using rideshare services, designate a clear pick-up point away from the main bus and car traffic.
Things to Do Near Ames ISU Ice Arena
Walkable
Gateway Hills Park
Adjacent to the Ice Arena, Gateway Hills Park provides a pleasant outdoor space for visitors to enjoy a breath of fresh air. This park offers walking paths and open green areas, perfect for a light stretch before or after an ice session. It's an ideal spot for families to let younger children burn off energy while older participants are on the ice. The park also serves as a convenient location for team photos or casual outdoor regrouping on pleasant weather days. While it doesn't offer specific sports facilities, its proximity makes it a useful amenity for arena patrons.
Gateway Hills Park D · On siteNorth Grand Mall
North Grand Mall is a regional shopping center offering a variety of retail stores, a cinema, and a food court. It's a convenient option for those looking to pick up essentials, grab a quick meal, or find entertainment during downtime between ice events. The mall provides a climate-controlled environment, making it a good choice for escaping inclement weather. Visitors can find clothing, electronics, books, and other goods, as well as casual dining options. It serves as a solid alternative for a break from the arena environment.
1630 Grand Ave · 1.6 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Iowa State University Campus
Explore the expansive and historic campus of Iowa State University, one of the nation's leading agricultural and scientific research institutions. Wander through iconic spots like the campanile, the Memorial Union, and the beautiful Reiman Gardens. The university offers a vibrant atmosphere with various events, museums, and architectural marvels. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through campus grounds, visit the bookstore, or catch an ISU sporting event if schedules align. It's a cultural and educational cornerstone of Ames.
Ames, IA · 2.5 miAmes Public Library
The Ames Public Library is a modern facility offering a quiet and comfortable environment for relaxation and learning. It features extensive collections of books, periodicals, and digital resources, along with public computers and Wi-Fi. The library often hosts community events, workshops, and art exhibits, providing a cultural diversion for visitors. It’s an excellent option for finding a peaceful retreat, catching up on reading, or simply enjoying a break from the energetic pace of sports events. The space is conducive to quiet contemplation or casual browsing.
2400 Solar Dr · 2.7 miBeyond the Event: The vibrant downtown Ames area, just a short drive from the Ice Arena, offers a lively scene with numerous independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place to experience local Ames culture, discover unique shops, and enjoy a meal or drink in a historic setting. For those with more time, further exploration might include visiting the Octagon Center for the Arts or catching a performance at Stephens Auditorium on the ISU campus.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Ames ISU Ice Arena
Inside & Adjacent
Arena Concessions
The Ames ISU Ice Arena typically offers on-site concessions providing quick and convenient food and beverage options for skaters and spectators. Expect to find classic arena fare such as hot dogs, pizza slices, popcorn, and a selection of soft drinks and snacks. These options are perfect for grabbing a bite between periods, during a public skate, or while watching a game without venturing far from the action. Availability and menu items can vary depending on the event schedule.
1505 Gateway Hills Park D · On siteNearby Fast Food
The immediate vicinity around Gateway Hills Park, accessible via Gateway Hills Park Drive, features several fast-food chains offering quick and convenient meal solutions. These establishments are ideal for grabbing a bite on the go, feeding hungry athletes between games, or enjoying a budget-friendly meal. Options typically include popular choices for burgers, sandwiches, and fried chicken, providing familiar and reliable dining for families and teams. They offer a straightforward way to get a meal without significant travel.
Via Gateway Hills Park D · AdjacentNearby Gathering Spots
Ames Chophouse
Ames Chophouse provides a refined dining experience with a focus on quality steaks and classic American cuisine. Located in downtown Ames, it's an excellent choice for a team dinner or a meal with family after a day of skating. The restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere and a well-curated menu featuring a variety of entrees, appetizers, and desserts. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak dining hours or event weekends.
219 Main St · 3.0 mi515 Brewing Company
This local brewery in downtown Ames offers a casual and friendly atmosphere with a selection of craft beers and a pub-style food menu. It’s a great spot for adults to relax and socialize, perhaps after a tournament or a long day of competition. The menu often includes burgers, sandwiches, and shareable appetizers. The lively environment makes it a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike, providing a taste of Ames's craft beverage scene.
323 Main St · 3.1 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Ames Pizza Company
Known for its delicious pizzas and casual vibe, Ames Pizza Company is a favorite among locals for good reason. They offer a variety of creative specialty pizzas alongside traditional favorites, perfect for feeding a hungry group. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a solid choice for post-game celebrations or a relaxed team meal. With its downtown location, it’s easily accessible from the university area.
126 Main St · 3.0 miBlack Gold Grille
Located near the Iowa State University campus, Black Gold Grille offers a diverse menu that includes American classics, sandwiches, and more creative dishes. It provides a slightly more upscale, yet still approachable, dining experience suitable for families and groups looking for a good meal in a comfortable setting. The menu features options that cater to various tastes, making it a reliable choice for satisfying everyone after a day at the rink.
2229 Aurora Ave · 3.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Expect increased traffic on Gateway Hills Park Drive and nearby streets during major hockey tournaments and ISU sporting events.
- Weekend mornings, especially during hockey season, are the busiest times at the Ice Arena for public skating and league play.
- Parking can fill up quickly for popular events; arriving earlier than usual is recommended for guaranteed spots.
- Downtown Ames offers a more vibrant nightlife and dining scene, but requires a short drive from the arena.
- Consider checking the Iowa State University event calendar, as concurrent events can affect local traffic and hotel availability.
Weather & Seasons at Ames ISU Ice Arena
- Winter: Winter in Ames brings cold temperatures, often with lows well below freezing. Visitors should pack heavy winter coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Indoor activities are highly recommended, and the Ice Arena provides a perfect escape from the chill. Be prepared for potential snow, which can impact driving conditions, so allow extra travel time.
- Spring & early summer: Spring weather is variable, with cool mornings giving way to warmer afternoons. Light jackets or layers are advisable. As summer approaches, temperatures become pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring Ames on foot or visiting nearby parks. Pack comfortable walking shoes and lighter clothing for the transition period.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Ames can be hot and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential. Staying hydrated is important, and air-conditioned indoor venues like the Ice Arena offer a welcome respite from the heat.
- Fall season: Fall brings crisp air and beautiful foliage, with temperatures generally moderate and comfortable. Layers remain a good strategy, with cooler evenings requiring a light jacket or sweater. This season is ideal for enjoying both indoor and outdoor activities around Ames before the onset of winter.
- Rain & snow: Ames experiences regular rainfall throughout the spring and summer months, and snow is common during winter. Pack an umbrella and water-resistant outerwear for wet conditions. Snowfall can occasionally lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility, so always check local conditions before traveling to the arena during winter.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Ames Youth Hockey Association, Iowa State Cyclones (club hockey)
- Neighborhood: Gateway Hills Park area
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Ample, free surface lots
- Walkable district: Limited to adjacent park areas
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: North Grand Mall area
- Pharmacy: Hy-Vee or CVS nearby
- Urgent care: McFarland Clinic Immediate Care
- Downtime: Iowa State University campus, movie theater
- Pro tip: Check the arena schedule for public skate times; they’re great for families.

