Road Trips from Ames, IA
Where to drive next — curated by how much time you have and what you're in the mood for.
Total Routes
49
Shortest
0.3h
With Parks Nearby
12
Under 2 hours
25 total in this range
Full-day getaway
23 total in this range
Bellevue, IA
3h 57m195.1 mi one way
Cascade, IA
3h 2m152.5 mi one way
Mount Pleasant, IA
3h 17m165.6 mi one way
Washington, IA
3h 7m156.6 mi one way
Bedford, IA
3h 9m152.7 mi one way
Weekend trip
Browse by Mood
Bellevue, IA
3h 57m195.1 mi one way
Cascade, IA
3h 2m152.5 mi one way
Mount Pleasant, IA
3h 17m165.6 mi one way
Washington, IA
3h 7m156.6 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Long daylight returns and parks begin peak bloom.
Summer
Fewer closures but plan for heat and heavier traffic.
Fall
Cooler temps and foliage make it the underrated season here.
Winter
Shorter days — prioritize shorter drives or southbound routes.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Ames, IA city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.