Free & Cheap Things to Do in Ames, IA

  • The list below includes 34 free or cheap things to do in or near Ames, Iowa, including 47 different types of inexpensive activities like Parks, Family Fun Center, Movie Theaters and Jazz/Blues Bars.
  • From Iowa State University to Reiman Gardens, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Ames and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Ankeny, Boone, Madrid and Johnston.
  • The list below includes 34 free or cheap things to do in or near Ames, Iowa, including 47 different types of inexpensive activities like Parks, Family Fun Center, Movie Theaters and Jazz/Blues Bars.
  • From Iowa State University to Reiman Gardens, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Ames and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Ankeny, Boone, Madrid and Johnston.
Showing 61-70 of 96
31.3 Miles
77% 431 votes
Science Museums 401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines, IA 50309 MoreLess Info
Science Center of Iowa includes a science museum and IMAX dome theater. Admission includes hands-on science experiments, as well as live demonstrations and programs about everything from chemistry to astronomy.
31.4 Miles
33% 33 votes
Other Entertainment 301 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, IA MoreLess Info
Des Moines' Val Air Ballroom is a popular concert venue for rock, pop, dance and jazz music. The venue is wheelchair accessible and contains two ATMs. Limited concessions are available.
31.4 Miles
90% 295 votes
Sports Facilities/Fields 1 Line Drive, Des Moines, IA 50309 MoreLess Info
Principal Park is a minor league baseball stadium located in Des Moines, Iowa. The Iowa Clubs play at the stadium, which was rebuilt in the early 1990s at the same site it was in 1947 when it was called Pioneer Park.
31.4 Miles
100% 1 votes
Bowling 100 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, IA 50265 MoreLess Info
As a 36-lane bowling center, Val Lanes Recreation Center provides visitors with amenities like bumpers and automatic scoring for recreational bowling. During the summer, kids up to age 15 may bowl free.
31.6 Miles
96% 110 votes
History Museums 4025 Tonawanda Drive, Des Moines, IA MoreLess Info
The inspiration of the historic Salisbury House was the King's House that is still located in Salisbury, England. The Tudor style mansion is open for general tours that are self-guided or guided during certain days.
32.3 Miles
84% 134 votes
Specialty Shops 217 Fifth Street, West Des Moines, IA 50265 MoreLess Info
West Des Moines' Valley Junction is a regentrifying area that boasts fine boutiques, dining and entertainment. In clement weather, patrons enjoy strolling through the junction's tree-lined paths. Parking is available on the streets and in several affordable pay lots.
32.3 Miles
95% 401 votes
Nature & Wildlife Areas 2100 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA MoreLess Info
In the middle of Des Moines, find two miles of trails surrounding a lake in the area known as Gray's Lake Park. The area features biking and walking paths, as well as fishing areas.
32.4 Miles
100% 1 votes
Art Gallery 203 5th Street, West Des Moines, IA 50265 MoreLess Info
Olson-Larsen Gallerie's is a contemporary gallery representing over 60 of the finest artists in the Midwest. Located in Historic Valley Junction, Olson-Larsen fulfills its commitment to original art through exhibitions and support services for clients ranging from individuals to corporations.
32.4 Miles
- 0 votes
Art Gallery 131 5th Street, West Des Moines, IA 50265 MoreLess Info
Featuring a mix of local and international artists, Kavanaugh Art Gallery showcases sculptures, paintings, prints, and more. The sculptures are made in a variety of mediums, from bronze to wood.
32.7 Miles
100% 2 votes
Skating Rinks 2019 Grand Avenue, West Des Moines, IA 50265 MoreLess Info
Featuring hardwood floors, Skate West has a skating rink open to public skating sessions and private birthday events. The rink has a pro shop where visitors can purchase inline skates or roller skates.
Showing 61-70 of 96
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