Ames, Iowa

Ames, Iowa! A great city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Here are some interesting facts about Ames:

1. Home of Iowa State University: Ames is home to Iowa State University, one of the top universities in the state. The university is known for its programs in engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine.
2. The Cyclone Capital: Ames is often referred to as the “Cyclone Capital” because of its association with Iowa State University’s athletic teams, which are known as the Cyclones.
3. Hometown of John Wayne: The famous actor John Wayne was born in Winterset, Iowa, but grew up in Ames, where he attended high school.
4. Iowa’s largest city by area: Despite having a smaller population than some other Iowa cities, Ames is the largest city in the state by land area, covering over 55 square miles.
5. Famous for its research parks: Ames is home to two major research parks: the Iowa State University Research Park and the Ames Biotechnology Research Park. These parks attract companies and researchers from all over the world.
6. Agricultural heritage: Ames is situated in the heart of Iowa’s agricultural country, and the city has a strong connection to farming and agriculture. The city is also home to the Iowa State Fair, which is held annually in nearby Des Moines.
7. Community events: Ames hosts many community events throughout the year, including the Ames Community Farmers Market, the Ames Jazz Festival, and the Downtown Ames Halloween Festival.

Some popular attractions in Ames include:

1. Brucemore Mansion: A historic mansion that was built in the late 1800s and now serves as a museum.
2. Iowa State University’s Farm House Museum: A museum that showcases the history of agriculture and farming in Iowa.
3. Reiman Gardens: A beautiful botanical garden that features over 16 acres of gardens and greenhouses.
4. The Octagon Center for the Arts: A arts center that hosts exhibitions, performances, and classes.
5. Ames Public Library: A modern library that offers a wide range of books, media, and programming for adults and children.

Overall, Ames is a vibrant city with a rich history, a strong sense of community, and plenty of things to see and do!