Best Vacation Homes in Ames
House
10.0(37 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
10 Guests
3000 ft²
Fireplace/Heating
Balcony/Terrace
Kitchen
Parking
AU $555/Night
7 Nights - AU $3,887
Apartment
10.0(7 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
3 Guests
904.17 ft²
- Balcony/Terrace
View- Parking
Air Conditioner
AU $237/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,662
Bed & Breakfast
10.0(24 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
- Balcony/Terrace
Breakfast- Parking
- Air Conditioner
AU $139/Night
7 Nights - AU $972
Apartment
10.0(25 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
5 Guests
450 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
- Parking
AU $143/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,001
Apartment
10.0(3 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
3 Guests
904.17 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Parking
- Air Conditioner
Internet
AU $257/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,802
Cabin
10.0(18 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
3 Guests
400 ft²
Hot Tub- Fireplace/Heating
Ocean View- Balcony/Terrace
AU $174/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,218
House
10.0(17 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
3 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
- Air Conditioner
AU $237/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,659
Apartment
10.0(16 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
4 Guests
700 ft²
- Kitchen
- Parking
- Air Conditioner
- Internet
AU $160/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,120
Ames Luxury Rentals
House
5 Bedrooms
2 Baths
10 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
- Air Conditioner
- Internet
Child Friendly
AU $959/Night
7 Nights - AU $6,712
Other
9.8(8 Reviews)
4 Bedrooms
4 Baths
16 Guests
- Hot Tub
Spa- Fireplace/Heating
Pool
AU $853/Night
7 Nights - AU $5,974
House
10.0(12 Reviews)
5 Bedrooms
3 Baths
14 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
- Parking
AU $830/Night
7 Nights - AU $5,808
House
10.0(8 Reviews)
4 Bedrooms
2 Baths
9 Guests
2089 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
- Parking
AU $785/Night
7 Nights - AU $5,498
House
1 Bedroom
2 Baths
8 Guests
2088.2 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- View
- Parking
AU $758/Night
7 Nights - AU $5,306
House
6.8(3 Reviews)
5 Bedrooms
3 Baths
16 Guests
- Child Friendly
Laundry
Bedding/Linens
Security/Safety
AU $753/Night
7 Nights - AU $5,271
House
5 Bedrooms
2 Baths
12 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
- Parking
AU $740/Night
7 Nights - AU $5,183
Cabin
10.0(1 Review)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
6 Guests
- Hot Tub
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
AU $719/Night
7 Nights - AU $5,032
Ames Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals
House
9.0(26 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
4 Guests
1152 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
Pet Friendly- Kitchen
AU $212/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,484
Hotel
8.2(1005 Reviews)
1 Bath
- Fireplace/Heating
- Pool
- Balcony/Terrace
- Breakfast
AU $145/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,015
House
9.0(21 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
7 Guests
960 ft²
- Hot Tub
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Pet Friendly
AU $247/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,726
House
2 Bedrooms
2 Baths
10 Guests
118.4 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- View
- Pet Friendly
- Parking
AU $272/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,907
Apartment
9.0(6 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
5 Guests
750 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Pet Friendly
- Kitchen
AU $365/Night
7 Nights - AU $2,554
House
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
5 Guests
752 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Pet Friendly
- Kitchen
AU $334/Night
7 Nights - AU $2,336
House
9.8(9 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
4 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Pet Friendly
- Kitchen
AU $310/Night
7 Nights - AU $2,171
Ames Large Vacation Homes
House
10.0(70 Reviews)
3 Bedrooms
3 Baths
10 Guests
- Hot Tub
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
AU $544/Night
7 Nights - AU $3,808
House
9.0(3 Reviews)
6 Bedrooms
3 Baths
13 Guests
301.39 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- View
- Kitchen
AU $553/Night
7 Nights - AU $3,868
House
10.0(40 Reviews)
4 Bedrooms
2 Baths
10 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Pet Friendly
- Kitchen
AU $451/Night
7 Nights - AU $3,154
House
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
14 Guests
2185.07 ft²
- View
- Parking
- Air Conditioner
- Internet
AU $588/Night
7 Nights - AU $4,114
House
10.0(6 Reviews)
5 Bedrooms
2 Baths
8 Guests
2146 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
- Parking
AU $575/Night
7 Nights - AU $4,027
House
10.0(4 Reviews)
5 Bedrooms
3 Baths
14 Guests
2178 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Kitchen
- Parking
AU $599/Night
7 Nights - AU $4,195
House
10.0(1 Review)
3 Bedrooms
3 Baths
10 Guests
- Hot Tub
- Fireplace/Heating
- Ocean View
- Balcony/Terrace
AU $585/Night
7 Nights - AU $4,092
House
10.0(1 Review)
5 Bedrooms
2 Baths
5 Guests
1120 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Pet Friendly
- Kitchen
- Parking
AU $319/Night
7 Nights - AU $2,233
Why Choose Rent By Owner for your Ames Vacation Rental Homes?
What makes our Vacation Rentals special?
Verified Listings
Book with confidence knowing every property meets our quality and safety standards.
Unbeatable Value
Enjoy competitive pricing with no hidden fees, providing exceptional value for every stay.
Diverse Options
From cozy cabins to luxurious villas, find a rental that suits your style and needs.
Best Times to Visit Ames
When should you plan your Vacation Rentals stay?
Choosing the optimal time to visit here can greatly enhance your experience, as the region offers different attractions and weather patterns throughout the year, so planning your trip accordingly ensures you enjoy the best of what this destination has to offer.
Peak Season Highlights
Summer (June to August)
During the summer months, this destination experiences warm weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region.
Average Temperature Daytime: 85°F - Nighttime: 65°F
Fall (September to November)
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, providing a picturesque setting for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the area.
Average Temperature Daytime: 75°F - Nighttime: 45°F
Off-Season Highlights
Winter (December to February)
The winter months bring colder weather and a quieter atmosphere, perfect if you prefer a more relaxed stay away from peak crowds.
Average Temperature Daytime: 30°F - Nighttime: 15°F
Spring (March to May)
Early spring sees a gradual warming of temperatures and fewer visitors, offering a tranquil environment to enjoy the area's natural beauty.
Average Temperature Daytime: 55°F - Nighttime: 35°F
Weekly Weather Forecast for Ames
How to Book Your Ames Vacation Rental Home
What's our booking process?
Our platform allows you to browse a curated selection of vacation rentals. Once you find the ideal property, you’ll be redirected to a trusted booking partner to complete your reservation securely.
Booking Steps
01
Search Properties
Use our filters to find the right property that fits your needs.
02
Select a Rental
Click on your preferred listing to view details, amenities, and pricing.
03
Book Online
Follow the link to finalize your reservation directly on the partner’s website.
Explore and book the perfect rental in Ames
Common Vacation Rentals Amenities
What amenities can you expect?
Our Vacation Rentals are designed to offer all the comforts of home, often with added perks to make your stay unforgettable. Here’s some common amenities to look forward to:
Indoor Features
- Fully-equipped kitchens with modern appliances
- Comfortable living areas with flat-screen TVs
- Free Wi-Fi for staying connected
- Air conditioning and heating for year-round comfort
- In-unit washers and dryers for convenience
- Luxurious bedrooms with premium bedding
- Spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs or walk-in showers
Outdoor Amenities
- Enjoy a private outdoor space with a patio or deck perfect for relaxing or hosting gatherings.
- Take advantage of a spacious yard, ideal for outdoor activities or family games.
- Make the most of outdoor dining areas equipped with grills for cooking under the open sky.
- Benefit from access to lush gardens or landscaped grounds that enhance your stay here.
- Experience the convenience of on-site parking with designated outdoor spaces.
- Utilize outdoor seating arrangements for enjoying peaceful mornings or sunset views.
- Relish in seasonal amenities such as fire pits or outdoor fireplaces for cozy evenings outside.
Top Attractions Around Ames
What attractions are nearby?
Within this vibrant area, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and local attractions that make your stay in Ames memorable and engaging.
Family Activities
- Story County Conservation Center: Discover interactive exhibits and outdoor activities that are perfect for family adventures in this engaging conservation center.
- Roosevelt Park: Enjoy the expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and scenic walking trails in a beloved park nearby, ideal for outdoor family fun.
- Octagon Center for the Arts: Participate in family-friendly art workshops and explore local culture at this vibrant community arts venue.
- Brunnier Art Museum: Introduce your family to inspiring exhibits and educational programs within this cultural gem of the region.
Adult Activities
- Explore the Iowa State University Campus: Discover the vibrant academic atmosphere and beautiful outdoor spaces that reflect the heart of this college town.
- Visit Reiman Gardens: Immerse yourself in this tranquil botanical garden featuring stunning plant collections perfect for a relaxing day out.
- Enjoy the Ames History Museum: Delve into the local heritage and stories that shaped this region through engaging exhibits and collections.
- Experience the Ada Hayden Heritage Park: Take in scenic views and indulge in outdoor activities at this popular natural attraction nearby.
Other Places to Stay in Ames, IA
Cambridge
Nevada
Story County Hospital North
Hilton Coliseum
Brunnier Art Museum
Iowa State Center
Jack Trice Stadium
Reiman Gardens
Stephens Auditorium
Story City
Jefferson
Ames Travel Tips
How Can You Make the Most of Your Stay?
- Explore Local Dining and Markets: Take advantage of the area's local eateries and markets to enjoy authentic regional flavors and support small businesses during your stay.
- Plan Outdoor Activities: Make the most of this destination's outdoor spaces by scheduling activities like walking, cycling, or picnicking to experience the natural beauty firsthand.
- Visit Community Events: Check out community calendars for festivals, farmers' markets, or local gatherings that can enrich your visit and help you connect with residents.
- Choose Strategic Accommodation Locations: Select vacation rentals in convenient areas to minimize travel time and maximize your opportunity to explore the region’s top attractions easily.
Transportation Options
- Rental Car Services: Major providers like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis operate here, offering convenient options for exploring the region at your own pace.
- Public Transit: The local bus system provides reliable transportation within this area, making it easy to access popular destinations without a car.
- Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing platforms like Uber and Lyft are readily available, providing flexible, on-demand transit around here.
- Bike Rentals and Scooters: For eco-friendly and active travel, several companies offer bike rentals and electric scooters suitable for getting around the city comfortably.
Local Customs Options
- Hawkeye Hospitality: Locals take pride in their friendly demeanor and welcoming attitude, reflecting the region's emphasis on community and hospitality.
- Cornfield Traditions: The area's agricultural roots are celebrated through seasonal festivals and local customs centered around farming and harvest practices.
- Local Sports Culture: Engaging in or supporting college sports, especially Iowa State University's teams, is a cherished part of life here, fostering a strong sense of school spirit.
- Community Events: Participating in neighborhood gatherings and public celebrations, like summer festivals and holiday parades, highlights the region’s vibrant communal spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ames?
1. What are the top vacation rentals in Ames?
There are a lot of options in Ames. If you plan on staying in the Ames area, consider making a reservation for a few nights at one of these properties as these have been rated the Top Vacation Rentals in Ames:
- Fun Family Place with Extras and Space
- 1800s Home, Train-Themed Decor, Walk to Downtown & Attractions, Exclusive Perks
- NEW Ames Getaway - Centrally Located, Sleeps 8
- 4 bedrooms. 2 miles to ISU. Quiet Cul-de-sac.
- Right in Cy's Backyard: A few steps from Hilton Coliseum and Iowa State Center
- Large 4 bedroom in West Ames
- The Urban Barn! private parking
- Loya's Little House Bed & Breakfast
- Walk to ISU and Stadium with Fire Pit, Fenced Yard
- Cozy Nook Cottage With Hot Tub
2. How many vacation rentals have private pools in Ames?
There are 20 vacation rentals with private pools near Ames. Top-rated RBO homes that have access to a swimming pool include:
3. Which vacation homes in Ames are best for families?
If you are looking for a family-friendly vacation home in Ames, check out one of the following properties as all are highly-rated places to stay with excellent review for families or groups staying in Ames:
4. How many Rentbyowner vacation rentals are available in Ames?
Currently, the total number of properties listed by Rent By Owner in 2026 is over 238 in the Ames area, and still counting. By aggregating listings from multiple websites, Rent By Owner offers an immense amount of choice of the best RBO properties in Ames.
5. What is the cancellation policy for vacation rentals in Ames, Iowa?
Cancellation policies vary by listing, so you should review the specific property’s cancellation terms on the listing page or contact the owner directly to understand the details.
6. How do I ensure my booking in Ames is secure and legitimate?
All bookings are processed through the platform’s secure system, and hosts are verified to ensure a trustworthy experience. Review the host’s profile and reviews for additional assurance.
7. Are there any amenities or special features I should look for in Ames vacation rentals?
Amenities differ between properties, so check each listing for details such as Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, parking, or other features that enhance your stay in this area.
8. What should I know about checking in and checking out of vacation rentals in Ames?
Check-in and check-out procedures are specified in each listing. Contact the host if you need additional instructions or have special requests for your arrival or departure.
9. Is there a specific cleaning or safety protocol followed in Ames vacation rentals?
Many hosts follow enhanced cleaning protocols for safety and hygiene. For detailed information, refer to the listing description or reach out to the host directly to confirm safety measures.
Ames Top Rated Vacation Rentals
AU $153/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,073
AU $166/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,164
Hotel
9.4(570 Reviews)
1 Bath
- Pool
- Balcony/Terrace
- Breakfast
- Kitchen
AU $171/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,197
Hotel
9.2(1268 Reviews)
1 Bath
- Hot Tub
- Spa
- Pool
- Balcony/Terrace
AU $139/Night
7 Nights - AU $972
AU $142/Night
7 Nights - AU $992
Hotel
9.2(276 Reviews)
1 Bath
- Hot Tub
- Pool
- Balcony/Terrace
- Breakfast
AU $186/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,299
Hotel
9.2(43 Reviews)
4 Baths
333.68 ft²
Private Pool
Oceanfront- Hot Tub
- Fireplace/Heating
AU $182/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,276
Hotel
9.1(164 Reviews)
7 Baths
547.42 ft²
- Private Pool
- Pool
- Pet Friendly
- Air Conditioner
AU $180/Night
7 Nights - AU $1,261
