The best things to do in Ames

“Home to the Iowa Masters, Veenker Memorial Golf Course gives you a proper test without the stuffiness. Tune up at the driving range, snag instruction or club fitting, then hop into a league with friends to make nine after work feel like a small victory.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Coldwater Golf Links keeps it classic, traditional golf on a well maintained track that mixes in links-style elements locals love. Scout every hole with their hole-by-hole aerial flyovers, book a tee time, and if your fade’s turned rogue, they’ve got instruction to set it straight.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Between bowling, laser tag, mini golf, and a big arcade, Perfect Games is the no-brainer pick when your crew needs easy fun this week without the planning headache. Grab pizza, an ice cream, maybe something from the bar, then let friendly chaos ensue.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Homewood Municipal Golf Course is the no-fuss, 9-hole staple where you can sneak in a satisfying round without sacrificing your whole day. Fairways are friendly, greens roll true, and the cozy clubhouse can be rented for low-key celebrations, team gatherings, or that fantasy football draft you take too seriously.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Ames Golf & Country Club mixes century-old roots with a 2018 refresh, giving locals an impeccably kept 18-hole course, a heated zero-depth pool, pickleball and tennis, plus a year-round TrackMan simulator and lively clubhouse dining. It’s the low-key, members-first hangout your golf bag has been hinting at.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Furman Aquatic Center is Ames’ go-to cool-down, with a 550-foot lazy river and waterfall, two 200+ foot slides, a 50-meter pool with a 150-foot drop slide, hoops, and diving, plus a zero-depth play pool and lessons. This week, trade couch time for laps, water walking, or a lazy float.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Need a low-effort, high-fun evening this week? North Grand Cinema has easy showtime browsing, a simple loyalty program for repeat-watchers, and a newsletter so you never miss what's coming next, making it the no-brainer pick when the couch just isn't cutting it.”

From the Ames newsletter, September 20, 2026