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Top 24 Hotels Near Lied Recreation Athletic Center
518 Beach Rd Ames, IA
Days Inn by Wyndham Ames
The guest's journey from Days Inn by Wyndham Ames in Ames to Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a quick drive, enhancing the sense of being in a convenient location.
Days Inn clusters trash and recycling near coffee points and seating, helping short pauses remain tidy before guests continue upstairs. Double-queen rooms balance sleep capacity and pathways with clustered outlets, making multi-device charging simple for shared stays. Computer alcoves offer browser access, USB ports, and a small writing ledge, simplifying confirmations and simple uploads near seating.
Between vending banks, ice, and a microwave plus Wi-Fi and lobby seating, warm snacks and short pauses fit neatly into tight schedules.
Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus
For those traveling by car, Comfort Inn and Suites Ames near ISU Campus is a quick drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center, ensuring a simple and predictable commute.
Comfort Inn frames arrival with visible front desks and warm lobby seating that eases transition after travel and supports quick regroup. Standard guest rooms provide convenient closet space and an accessible iron/ironing board, minimizing morning prep friction for meetings. Co-working tables in public areas pair task lighting with outlets, allowing short work sprints or collaborative planning without booking rooms.
From fitness centers and towel service to pools and lounge seating, daily maintenance and unwind are handled on the property.
Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites
From the moment you arrive at Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites, Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a simple drive for a simple commute, making for an easy start.
Best Western places restrooms just off the lobby path where possible, offering brief relief and minimizing detours during the arrival window. All guest rooms may offer an iron, ironing board, and hanging space, keeping attire ready without last-minute outside errands. Breakfast corners seat companions at café-height tables, maintaining routines while maps load and schedules are reviewed together.
With housekeeping service, guest laundry, Wi-Fi, and in-room safes, routines maintain order while valuables and schedules remain easy to manage.
Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University
When staying in Ames, the short drive from Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University to Lied Recreation Athletic Center is an easy drive, allowing guests to arrive calm and prepared.
At Gateway Hotel and Conference Center at Iowa State University, guests are typically greeted with warm staff welcomes, curated furnishings, and complimentary refreshments. Rooms may highlight premium linens, locally inspired décor, and curated minibars that provide added boutique-style convenience. Shared spaces typically provide intimate lounges, locally inspired dining, and curated cafés that reflect boutique-style orientation.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, laundry support, yoga mats, and artisanal breakfast, maintaining a boutique rhythm of ease.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames
When visiting Lied Recreation Athletic Center in Ames, the drive from Home2 Suites by Hilton Ames is a simple drive, allowing for a quick return to the hotel for rest.
In Home2 Suites lobbies, complimentary coffee and tea stations establish rituals that support comfort and ease after long journeys. Guest rooms highlight blackout curtains, plush bedding, and climate control, ensuring restful sleep tailored to traveler preferences. In the laundry room, washers, dryers, and folding areas simplify routines, ensuring extended-stay guests feel supported daily.
Guests benefit from laundry facilities, fitness rooms, breakfast buffets, and Wi-Fi, helping keep routines intact during long stays.
Courtyard by Marriott Ames
For a trip to Ames, Courtyard by Marriott Ames's location a quick drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center is an essential piece of its appeal.
In Courtyard arrivals, infused water stations beside reception offer small courtesies that refresh guests and reinforce attentiveness. Every suite highlights walk-in showers, stocked bath products, and bright décor, refreshing routines with consistency and ease. At the Bistro, light evening meals, crafted cocktails, and soft lighting provide guests reliable hubs for social connection nightly.
Amenities such as fitness studios, indoor pools, breakfast spreads, and business spaces help guests sustain productivity and wellness.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites
For a visit where a low-stress drive is a priority, GrandStay Hotel & Suites is a quick drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center, turning the trip into a simple task.
GrandStay Hotel & Suites often presents straightforward check-in, accessible parking, and a modest lobby with self-serve coffee for quick arrivals. Guest rooms may include curated décor, hardwood floors, and premium bedding that create a comfortable and stylish overnight experience. Facilities may feature guest laundries, vending machines, and breakfast corners that sustain reliable convenience across daily visits.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, guest laundry, continental breakfast, and parking, maintaining consistency in budget hospitality.
Spark by Hilton Ames
For guests in Ames, Spark by Hilton Ames is a simple drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center, a location that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
Hilton ensures orientation clarity with visible concierge desks, polished reception counters, and signage that reduces guest stress. Every suite offers lounge seating, streaming TVs, and spacious counters, supporting both relaxation and practical routines easily. In the business lounge, shared desks, outlets, and Wi-Fi access help professionals remain productive without leaving the property.
Amenities include free breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi, and business centers, giving travelers confidence that routines will stay consistent.
Hilton Garden Inn Ames
When the day's schedule in Ames is packed, Hilton Garden Inn Ames's location a short drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a major benefit.
Community-style tables inside Hilton Garden Inn lobbies provide collaborative areas, supporting guests who wish to plan as groups. Suites feature sofa beds, televisions, and lounge chairs, allowing families to relax together with both comfort and entertainment options. Fitness rooms with treadmills, rowing machines, and weight benches help travelers keep exercise routines steady across their visit.
Complimentary internet, indoor pools, breakfast service, business lounges, and Pavilion Pantry counters support varied guest routines.
Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus
Because Sleep Inn & Suites Ames near ISU Campus is a straightforward drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center, guests can choose to start their day with a moment of quiet reflection.
Sleep Inn keeps reception workflows simple with straight paths and clear counters, minimizing queue complexity during peak check-in times. Every guest room offers a desk, blackout curtains, a flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi to help guests unwind and stay connected. Breakfast areas offer hot buffet items, fresh fruit and coffee stations plus high-top counters that speed up morning departures.
With complimentary Wi-Fi, a hot breakfast, meeting rooms, a fitness center, guest laundry and vending, brief stays feel useful and restful.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames
Lied Recreation Athletic Center is an easy drive from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ames, a perk that allows the hotel to serve as a time-saving base.
West elm accents at SpringHill Suites add a polished, residential feel to lobbies, which reassures guests that details are intentionally handled. Suites include flat-screen TVs, sofa seating, and open layouts, giving guests both entertainment ease and space to relax beyond the bedroom area. The breakfast room presents hot selections, cereals, and juice alongside coffee, making it easy for travelers to establish consistent routines.
Guests find fitness center access, breakfast choices, a 24/7 Market, and indoor pool availability, maintaining balance between wellness and leisure.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ames
From TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ames, the quick drive to Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a core benefit to stay on schedule before the day begins.
Aroma from lobby coffee and soft seating at TownePlace Suites invite conversation, helping arrivals feel settled and socially at ease. Suites combine kitchen areas, flat-screen TVs, and ergonomic seating, presenting environments that support daily balance and guest ease. Lobby seating clusters utilize armchairs and sip holders, forging casual comfort zones that welcome friendly drops and solo planning alike.
Meeting space, breakfast buffet, and lobby coffee lift productivity, nourishment, and refreshment into one compounded guest experience moment.
Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG
For a trip to Ames, Staybridge Suites Ames by IHG's location a short drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a fundamental piece of its appeal.
At check-in, Staybridge Suites routes maps, directories, and room-range signs near elevators so first walks upstairs feel direct. Each suite organizes a closet, hangers, and a luggage rack so coats and day bags stay accessible while floors remain clear. Business nooks sometimes add a stapler and scanner near reception, wrapping small paperwork tasks neatly without leaving public areas.
Accessible parking, automatic doors, and elevators pair with Wi-Fi and clear signage, keeping first walks direct for varied mobility needs.
Hampton Inn & Suites Ames
For travelers with a car-centric itinerary, Hampton Inn & Suites Ames is a short drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center, making it a smart anchor for exploring the area.
Infused water stations located near Hampton Inn reception seating clusters refresh travelers instantly, softening arrival fatigue. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh comfortably after a day of activities. Lobby lounges with coffee, sofa clusters, and curated décor foster welcoming atmospheres, giving arrivals relaxed connection points.
Complimentary breakfast, pet services, fitness studios, Wi-Fi connectivity, and self-parking provide ease and flexibility for varied stays.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames
Lied Recreation Athletic Center is an easy drive from Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Ames, a feature that makes the hotel a sensible and well-placed choice.
To reduce arrival stress, Fairfield Inn aligns reception, a market, and seating in one sightline so decisions about food and seats are fast. Guest rooms highlight lounge seating, flat-screen TVs, and blackout shades, offering travelers comfort and entertainment for balanced stays. Lobby areas highlight sofas, communal tables, and natural light, encouraging relaxed conversation and helping orientation feel simple.
Amenities include a 24/7 Market, indoor pool access, complimentary breakfast, and self-parking, providing families with dependable convenience.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG
Within Ames, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ames by IHG is a short drive from Lied Recreation Athletic Center, a fact that lets the hotel to feel both convenient and calm.
Pantry markets in Holiday Inn Express properties provide snacks, drinks, and travel items, ensuring convenience immediately upon arrival. Each guest room supplies branded toiletries, walk-in showers, and soft linens, creating refreshing and consistent daily experiences. Fitness facilities offering cardio machines, weights, and stretching areas make it convenient to keep exercise routines consistent.
Connectivity with free Wi-Fi, breakfast service, and pools links with fitness centers and meeting rooms, ensuring balance and ease.
Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus
Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a quick drive from Quality Inn & Suites Ames Conference Center Near ISU Campus, a feature that allows for confident planning and easy journeys.
Quality Inn entry layouts usually include bench seating and luggage racks so early arrivals can stage bags and explore unencumbered. Each guest room supplies bedside reading lights, easy switches, and simple temperature controls so guests tailor the space to sleep or work. Co-working tables pair task lighting, power strips, and modest privacy screens to support focused work sprints in public spaces.
Fitness rooms and towel service pair with lap or seasonal pools at select sites, giving travelers practical recovery and low-effort wellness options.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames
Lied Recreation Athletic Center is an easy drive from Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames, a feature that allows for a thought-free and simple part of the day.
At interior-corridor properties, Microtel keeps routes compact from desk to elevator, keeping first minutes efficient and direct. Guest rooms position the window seat beside task lighting and outlets, forming a handy nook for reading or quick laptop time when needed. BBQ grills and covered picnic shelters at select sites support casual cookouts, letting groups gather without arranging off-site venues.
With free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a fitness room, plus printing at select sites, quick paperwork wraps before departures each day.
Sonesta Essential Ames
From Sonesta Essential Ames, Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a straightforward drive, a perk that keeps the day's main event easily reachable.
At reception, Sonesta Essential balances adjacent casual seating and plentiful outlets to give groups and solo guests an easy landing place. Each guest room features a movable work desk, task lamp, and abundant outlets, helping you complete calls and last-minute prep with ease. Lobby workspaces combine communal tables, individual nooks, and abundant outlets, making quick email checks and map reviews straightforward.
Between hot morning choices, free Wi-Fi, a fitness area, meeting rooms, and on-site laundry, travelers manage schedules with fewer interruptions.
Red Roof Inn Ames
From Red Roof Inn Ames, Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a simple drive, a convenience that simplifies the logistics of the entire visit.
Red Roof Inn lobbies often feature a vending area with snacks and drinks, providing immediate access to refreshments right after checking in. The modern bathrooms in NextGen rooms feature vessel sinks and chrome fixtures, creating a more contemporary and stylish washing-up space. The seasonal swimming pool is a welcome oasis for roadside travelers, providing a chance to stretch out, relax, and enjoy the sunshine.
From a refreshing outdoor pool to essential laundry services, plus free coffee and Wi-Fi, guests have what they need for a great stay.
Baymont by Wyndham Ames
This accessible commute to Lied Recreation Athletic Center allows Baymont by Wyndham Ames to be a peaceful yet connected base before the on-site experience.
Baymont places brochure racks and neighborhood maps by reception, shortening conversations and first errands after room assignment. All guest rooms route lighting to bedside switches and a focused desk lamp, cutting night trips as alarms set and notes finalize calmly. Business centers provide PCs, printers, and counter space so boarding passes, labels, and confirmations finish neatly on site.
With pet-friendly rooms at many locations, outdoor space, and Wi-Fi plus a small market, walks, returns, and snacks stay easy.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA
For a trip where a direct drive is essential, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Ames, IA offers a direct run to Lied Recreation Athletic Center, making it a logical hub for any itinerary.
Radisson places a concise lobby core—reception, market, café—to reduce wandering and let arrivals focus on settling in right away. Every guest room features a work surface, task lighting, multiple USB outlets, and sightlines that support in-room productivity. Business pods feature sound-masked benches, bench desks, and task lighting, enabling brief focused sessions without booking a full meeting room.
Between on-site dining, free internet, fitness access, pool seating, meetings, and laundry, travelers find both refreshment and practical support.
AmericInn by Wyndham Ames
From AmericInn by Wyndham Ames, the easy drive to Lied Recreation Athletic Center is a core benefit before the day begins.
Reception-adjacent cafés at Wyndham simplify quick breakfasts, so early meetings or departures start on time without leaving the property. Suites combine sleeping and living zones, deluxe bedding, and extra charging stations, enabling clearer work-life balance for longer stays. Breakfast nooks position buffets close to entrances, toaster stations, and hot beverage makers, so mornings flow without leaving the property.
Mobile check-in, Rewards points, Wi-Fi, fitness center access, conference catering, and accessible parking help groups maintain predictable trips.
Comfort Inn Story City
From Comfort Inn Story City, Lied Recreation Athletic Center is an easy regional drive, a feature that makes for an uncomplicated start to the day.
At check-in Comfort Inn places coffee or breakfast points near reception so guests find immediate refreshment without extra walking. Guest rooms often include blackout drapes and gentle wake lighting to help adjust sleep schedules before early departures or late arrivals. Guest laundries include machines and simple payment options so multi-night stays and team travel keep wardrobes ready with minimal fuss.
With grab-and-go markets, in-room microwaves, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi, snack runs and quick meals happen without leaving the hotel.
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Lied Recreation Athletic Center Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Lied Recreation Athletic Center, a central hub for sports and fitness enthusiasts visiting Ames, Iowa. This guide is designed for athletes, coaches, families, and fans looking to navigate the Lied Center and its surrounding amenities. You'll find essential information on getting to the venue, understanding its layout, planning your event day, and discovering local dining and attractions. Prepare for a smooth and enjoyable experience, whether you're here for a tournament, a league game, or a training session.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Lied Recreation Athletic Center (Ames, IA)
The Lied Recreation Athletic Center is strategically located on the southwest side of the Iowa State University campus, a dynamic area that blends academic facilities with recreational spaces. Its address at 518 Beach Road places it within easy reach of major thoroughfares, making arrival straightforward for visitors. Key access routes include University Boulevard and Lincoln Way, which connect directly to US-30, a primary artery for regional travel. For those flying in, the Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is the nearest major airport, situated approximately 40 miles south of Ames. Driving from DSM typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Public transportation options within Ames are primarily served by CyRide, the university’s bus system, which offers routes that pass near the Lied Center, providing an alternative to driving and parking. Rideshare services are also readily available in the Ames area. Smart arrival tactics involve factoring in potential campus traffic, especially during peak academic hours or major event days at nearby facilities. Aim to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled activity to allow ample time for parking, checking in, and locating your specific area within the extensive Lied Center complex.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Lied Recreation Athletic Center
Within Ames, hotel accommodations are clustered in several key areas, with a significant concentration found near the downtown district and along the main commercial corridors that run parallel to US-30. These areas offer a range of options from budget-friendly motels to more upscale hotels. While the Lied Recreation Athletic Center itself is primarily a sports and recreation facility, it's situated close enough to campus amenities that many visitors opt for hotels within a short drive, typically 5-15 minutes away. A walk from the immediate vicinity of the Lied Center to the nearest hotels would be a longer endeavor, generally exceeding 30 minutes. Teams and groups often choose accommodations that offer convenient access to the venue and provide amenities suitable for larger parties, such as suites or rooms with kitchenettes. Demand for lodging in Ames can spike significantly during university home football games, major conference tournaments hosted at Iowa State, or large amateur sporting events. For these times, booking your accommodation well in advance is crucial. Utilizing map filters to search for hotels within a 2-3 mile radius of the Lied Center, or filtering by proximity to Iowa State University, can help narrow down suitable options. Consider flexible dates if possible, as mid-week stays often present better availability and pricing.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is about a 45-minute drive away, offering regional and national flight connections.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early to navigate campus, find parking, and locate your specific facility within the Lied Center.
- Explore the cafes and casual eateries near the Iowa State campus for a relaxed break between activities or games.
- Indoor options like the Ames Public Library or a movie at a local cinema provide excellent rainy-day diversions.
- The Reiman Gardens offers a tranquil escape, perfect for regrouping and enjoying nature with friends or family.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Upon arrival, orient yourself with the specific area within the Lied Recreation Athletic Center where your event is taking place, as the complex houses multiple distinct facilities. Allow ample time for parking, especially if arriving during a peak university hour or a scheduled event, and proceed to the designated check-in or registration area. For participants, securing your preferred warm-up space early is key, as prime areas can become occupied quickly. Familiarize yourself with the locker room locations and restroom facilities as soon as you’ve settled your gear.
Mid-Day Regroup
During breaks between games or during less active periods, consider utilizing the common areas within the Lied Center or finding a shaded spot on the surrounding campus grounds for your team to regroup. Hydration and snacks are essential, so ensure you have your supplies readily accessible. If an extended break is planned, a quick trip to a nearby campus café or a walk through the Reiman Gardens can offer a refreshing change of pace. Coordinate meet-up times and locations to ensure everyone can reconvene efficiently for the next session.
Wrap-Up & Departure
As your event concludes, manage your exit from the Lied Recreation Athletic Center thoughtfully to avoid congestion. Allow time for packing and gathering all personal belongings, double-checking locker rooms and team areas. If departing during a busy period, be prepared for potential traffic delays on campus roads. Consider a post-event gathering at a nearby restaurant or café to debrief and celebrate your team's efforts, providing a relaxed transition from the intensity of competition.
Things to Do Near Lied Recreation Athletic Center
Walkable
Reiman Gardens
Nestled directly on the Iowa State University campus, Reiman Gardens offers a stunning horticultural experience that captivates visitors of all ages. This expansive botanical garden features diverse themed gardens, including a tranquil Japanese garden, a vibrant butterfly garden, and a unique children's garden. The indoor facility houses impressive conservatories and seasonal exhibits, providing a delightful escape regardless of the weather. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, quiet reflection, or a family outing, offering a peaceful contrast to the energy of athletic events. Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate its beauty.
Campus Drive · On siteIowa State University Campanile
The iconic Signal Tower, more commonly known as the Campanile, stands as a prominent landmark on the Iowa State University campus. This impressive structure not only adds architectural beauty to the landscape but also chimes regularly throughout the day, filling the air with melodic tunes. Visitors can admire its grandeur from the surrounding green spaces or, during specific times, take guided tours to learn about its history and climb to the top for panoramic views of the campus and Ames. It serves as a central meeting point and a classic photo opportunity for those exploring the university grounds.
Campus Drive · On site5–15 Minutes Away
Scheman Building and Stephens Auditorium
The Scheman Building and Stephens Auditorium are integral parts of the Iowa State Center, hosting a wide array of performing arts, concerts, lectures, and community events. Stephens Auditorium, a premier venue, features a diverse schedule ranging from Broadway shows and musical performances to guest speakers and university ceremonies. The Scheman Building often complements these by providing space for conferences and smaller gatherings. Checking their event calendar in advance can reveal unique opportunities for entertainment and cultural enrichment during your visit.
Northwestern Drive · 1.1 miBrookside Park
Brookside Park offers a refreshing natural retreat within Ames, perfect for families and individuals seeking outdoor recreation. This expansive city park features well-maintained walking and biking trails that meander through scenic wooded areas and along the Squaw Creek. Amenities include playgrounds, picnic areas with grills, and open green spaces ideal for casual sports or relaxation. During warmer months, the park also boasts a popular outdoor swimming pool, making it a great destination for cooling off and enjoying a summer day.
Brookside Drive · 2.2 miBeyond the Event: For those extending their stay or seeking broader entertainment, the downtown Ames area offers a vibrant mix of local shops, boutiques, and entertainment venues. Consider exploring Main Street for unique finds or catching a show at a local theater for a taste of Ames' community culture. The proximity to the university also means access to various sporting events and cultural happenings that are often open to the public.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Lied Recreation Athletic Center
Inside & Adjacent
Fielder's Choice
Conveniently located just off the main campus roads, Fielder's Choice is a popular spot for casual dining and a relaxed atmosphere. It offers a menu featuring American classics like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, alongside a selection of appetizers perfect for sharing. The eatery is known for its friendly service and is a frequent stop for students and visitors looking for a satisfying meal without venturing far from campus facilities. It’s a straightforward choice for a quick lunch or an early dinner.
1316 N University Blvd · 0.6 miHenshaw 255 Dining
Part of Iowa State University's student services, Henshaw 255 Dining provides a convenient and affordable dining option for those on or near campus. This cafeteria-style eatery offers a rotating selection of hot meals, deli sandwiches, and grab-and-go options, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs. It’s a practical choice for groups looking for a no-fuss meal between activities, with ample seating available. Expect a casual, bustling environment typical of university dining facilities.
255 North University Blvd · 0.7 miNearby Gathering Spots
Ames Chop House
For a more refined dining experience, the Ames Chop House in downtown Ames stands out. This establishment specializes in high-quality steaks and seafood, offering an elegant ambiance suitable for celebratory dinners or business gatherings. With an extensive wine list and attentive service, it provides a sophisticated culinary destination. Reservations are often recommended, particularly on weekends, to ensure a table at this popular local restaurant.
317 5th St · 2.0 miD.P. Dough
Serving up a unique specialty, D.P. Dough is a go-to for calzones and a variety of inventive strombolis. This casual eatery is perfect for those seeking hearty, flavorful, and customizable options, offering a wide array of fillings and sauces. It’s a relaxed spot, often appealing to students and sports teams looking for a satisfying meal that’s easy to grab and enjoy. The menu’s focus on a specific niche makes it a memorable stop for calzone enthusiasts.
2400 University Blvd · 1.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Ames Churn
Ames Churn offers a delightful artisanal ice cream experience, perfect for a sweet treat any time of year. Featuring unique and classic flavors made with high-quality ingredients, it’s a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. The shop’s creative combinations and creamy textures make it a popular destination for dessert after a meal or as a standalone treat. It provides a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for families or friends gathering for a scoop.
229 Main St · 2.1 miOutskirts Bar & Grill
Located a short drive from campus, Outskirts Bar & Grill provides a classic pub atmosphere with a diverse menu. Known for its extensive selection of beers on tap and crowd-pleasing dishes such as burgers, wraps, and appetizers, it's a comfortable spot for casual dining. The bar and grill often feature live music or trivia nights, adding to its appeal as a lively gathering place. It’s a good option for those looking for a relaxed evening with good food and entertainment.
3020 Country Club Drive · 2.8 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Campus traffic can be heavy during weekday class changes and on game days; factor in extra travel time when approaching the Lied Center.
- Parking availability near the Lied Center can vary; utilize designated campus lots and be aware of any potential permit or fee requirements.
- CyRide buses provide reliable public transit across Ames and the university campus, offering an easy alternative to driving and parking.
- Weekend mornings can be particularly busy with youth sports tournaments and university activities, impacting traffic and facility access.
- Check the Iowa State University event calendar for major athletic or performing arts events that might coincide with your visit, affecting crowd levels.
Weather & Seasons at Lied Recreation Athletic Center
- Winter: Winter in Ames typically brings cold temperatures, with average highs in the 20s and lows often below freezing. Snowfall is common, necessitating warm clothing, including heavy coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof footwear. Indoor activities are a good fallback, and outdoor event participants should dress in layers to stay warm. Travel to and from the venue may be affected by icy conditions, so allow extra time.
- Spring & early summer: Spring sees a gradual warming trend, with temperatures ranging from cool to mild, though sudden cold snaps or warm spells can occur. Layering clothing is advisable, as is carrying a light jacket or umbrella for potential rain showers. This period is excellent for enjoying the outdoor spaces around the Lied Center, with green landscapes emerging. Early summer continues this pleasant trend before the full heat of July arrives.
- Mid-summer: July and August in Ames are characterized by warm to hot and humid weather. Daytime temperatures often climb into the 80s and can exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Visitors should stay hydrated, especially if participating in outdoor activities, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Indoor facilities like the Lied Center provide welcome air-conditioned relief.
- Fall season: Autumn offers crisp air and comfortable temperatures, making it a prime time to visit. Daytime highs are typically in the 50s and 60s, with cooler evenings. Pack layers, including sweaters or light jackets, to adapt to the changing conditions. The fall foliage on campus adds a beautiful backdrop for any visit, and outdoor events can be particularly enjoyable during this season.
- Rain & snow: Rain is possible in any season, with spring and fall often seeing more frequent precipitation. Snowfall is characteristic of Ames winters, typically occurring from November through March. Visitors should always check weather forecasts before traveling and be prepared for potential travel disruptions due to inclement weather. Having a rain jacket or umbrella and waterproof shoes is advisable year-round.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Iowa State Cyclones (various sports)
- Neighborhood: Iowa State University Campus
- Nearest airport: Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
- Parking: Campus lots, some metered/permit required
- Walkable district: Iowa State University Campus
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Fareway Stores or Hy-Vee near downtown
- Pharmacy: Walgreens or CVS on Grand Ave
- Urgent care: McFarland Clinic or Broadlawns Urgent Care (Des Moines)
- Downtime: Reiman Gardens, Ames Public Library
- Pro tip: Utilize the CyRide campus bus system to navigate efficiently and avoid parking hassles.

