- 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.
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30.6 Miles
Built in the late 1800s, the Iowa Capitol Building hosts regular public tours in Des Moines. The building features artwork and historical carvings, as well as its most recognizable gold dome.
30.7 Miles
Treat yourself to a bit of musical culture at the Des Moines Symphony. Bask in the musical masterpieces of Beethoven, Bach, and Mozart, or catch a Cirque de la Symphonie performance.
30.7 Miles
Celebrating the accomplishment of past, present, and future Iowans, the Iowa Hall of Pride is a nice ode to the state's residents. See local art, sculptures, videos, pictures, and written works from the state's most accomplished residents.
30.7 Miles
The growth and development of Iowa is displayed through numerous exhibits at the State Historical Museum. Historic artifacts and documents show many stories of the people of Iowa along side the natural history of the region.
31.0 Miles
The Downtown Farmers Market is open rain or shine from May through October. There are roughly 300 family farmers, artists, bakers, and crafters from around the state who participate in the large open-air market.
31.0 Miles
As an indoor entertainment center, Monkey Joe's is filled with wall to wall bounce houses and other inflatables for children to play on. The center has a separate play area for toddlers with age-appropriate inflatables.
31.2 Miles
Homemakers all over the world love to visit the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden. The culture behemoth offers an opportunity for visitors to peak at beautiful landscapes, and trending outdoor styles.
31.2 Miles
86%
7 votes
Science Center of Iowa, 401 W Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Des Moines, IA 50309
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The Blank IMAX Dome Theater is an IMAX movie theater that is situated within the Science Center of Iowa. The theater has seats that are angled at 35 degrees so that every seat in the theater faces the screen.
31.3 Miles
19th and 20th century artwork is at home at the Des Moines Art Center. The facility includes three buildings, also housing art classes and special events for visitors and the community
31.3 Miles
The Pappajohn Sculpture Park is an urban, outdoor art venue located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The park, part of the Des Moines Art Center, includes sculptures from 21 artists in a park setting.