Iowa State University Campus and Ames, Iowa
An award-winning campus in a top-ranked city
Iowa State University and the city of Ames offer a perfect blend of arts, culture and entertainment with a stunning backdrop no matter the season – spring, summer, fall, and winter. Whether you're exploring campus or the Ames community, beauty and wonder are around every corner.
Best college town in the nation
From the Wall Street Journal to Forbes Magazine, the city of Ames continually ranks among America's best cities to live, work, play, and, of course, go to college. From live music and shopping to outdoor activities and arts and culture, there is something for everyone in Ames.
An enchanting escape
Take a break at Reiman Gardens, a 17-acre oasis on campus open year-round. The public garden includes a tropical conservatory and a butterfly wing with hundreds of exotic butterflies taking wing. Be sure to get a photo with Elwood, the world's largest concrete gnome at 15 feet tall.
Delight in the visual arts
University Museums encompasses two art museums, a National Historic Landmark historic home museum, a sculpture garden, and one of the largest campus public art collections in the nation. Enjoy world-class exhibitions with educational programming, a permanent collection of more than 30,000 objects, and a commitment to diversity in the growing Art on Campus collection.