Housing
Where Can I Find Information About Living In Ames?
Although your host department should assist you with identifying housing options in Ames, if you need additional resources feel free to contact our office.
The Department of Residence at Iowa State University has a limited number of furnished apartments on campus for long-term or short-term Guest Housing. Please e-mail housing@iastate.edu for more information, availability, and to make a reservation.
Additional short-term lodging options can be found on the Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau website.
Visit the Discover Ames website before your arrival so you can begin exploring and enjoying what Ames has to offer as soon as you arrive.
Please note - Once you sign a rental lease, it is considered a legal contract between you and your landlord. You will be responsible for paying the rent, and utilities included in the lease, until the end date listed on your lease.
Transportation From The Airport
How can I travel to Ames, Iowa?
The closest airport to Iowa State University is roughly 40 miles away in Des Moines, Iowa. If you arrive at the Des Moines International Airport (DSM), you will need to find transportation from Des Moines to Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. The Des Moines Airport website includes information on transportation options.
A shuttle service operated by Executive Express is available for trips from the Des Moines Airport to the Iowa State University campus. Details regarding departure times from the Des Moines International Airport to the Iowa State University campus can be found on their website.
The trip from the Des Moines airport to the Iowa State University campus takes approximately one hour.
Community Information
What events are specific to Iowa Culture?
We suggest reviewing information regarding these events prior to your arrival, so you can make the most of your time in the great state of Iowa!
Pella Tulip Festival
WHAT: Experience the Dutch heritage of Pella, while enjoying the vast arrays of tulips in full bloom.
WHEN: 3 days in early May
WHERE: Pella, IA
80/35
WHAT: Festival designed to encourage music discovery and to celebrate and support music.
WHEN: 2 days in early July
WHERE: downtown Des Moines, IA
RAGBRAI
WHAT: The “Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa” is the oldest, largest, and longest recreational bicycle-touring event in the world.
WHEN: 7 days in late July
WHERE: across the state of Iowa
National Balloon Classic
WHAT: This annual event features over 100 hot air balloons, with morning and evening launches.
WHEN: 9 days in late July, early August
WHERE: Indianola, Iowa
Iowa State Fair
WHAT: Called “Iowa’s Great Celebration,” it is one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the U.S.
WHEN: 11 days in mid-August
WHERE: state fairgrounds, east side of Des Moines, IA
Visit the Travel Iowa website for more ideas on what to do in Iowa.