Places to stay near Iowa State University

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Top-rated holiday rentals near Iowa State University

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top Guest favourite

A spacious bed is adorned with soft grey and beige pillows, complemented by a decorative lumbar pillow. Above the bed, a framed landscape painting featuring gentle hills and earthy tones enhances the calming atmosphere of the room. Nightstands are positioned on either side.

Townhouse in Ames

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 607 reviews

Campus★Downtown★WiFi★Near Starbucks★Superhosts

Located in the heart of Ames, Iowa! • 2 minute drive to Iowa State Uni + downtown Ames • 3 Smart TVs with Netflix (1 smart TV in each bedroom) • Walking distance to downtown shopping & dining • 1 block from grocery store • 2 Starbucks within walking distance • Right across the street from Cy-Ride bus stop • Quiet & safe neighborhood • Keyless Entry •2 Br/ 1 Bath (2 queen beds & 1 queen pull out couch) • Onsite Washer/Dryer • Full equipped + Stocked kitchen • Superhost--stay with no worries!

Top Guest favourite

A modern kitchen features dark cabinetry and a large white countertop. A dining area with green chairs is visible through expansive glass windows that open to a lush forest view. Kitchen essentials and decorative items are neatly arranged on the counters.

Holiday home in Ames

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

Retreat in a Stunning House

Indulge in this luxurious, light-filled, architecturally unique, and tranquil house, nearby the university. Marvel in this 3-level spacious house w/ 3-level decks and terraced garden at the edge of the woods/park. Enjoy evening outdoor fire bowl, watch birds, deer, and other wildlife, & stroll down deer trails to Clear Creek. min. stay 2 nights. No window shades! Not for dark bedroom sleep. Not w/chair accessible. not for guests with woods-related allergies. $29/night for each guest after two.

Top Guest favourite

A treehouse, elevated on stilts, is surrounded by various trees and greenery. The wooden structure features large windows and a balcony, with a staircase leading up, inviting guests to its elevated entrance. Bright blue skies provide a clear backdrop.

Treehouse in Norwalk

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 99 reviews

RARE Spacious Treehouse & Sauna Near Des Moines

Come home to luxury in nature in this spacious, double king-bed treehouse and sleep among the stars. Expansive views of rolling hills greet you as you sip your pour-over coffee on the wrap around balcony twenty feet above ground. Rain? No problem. Tuck away on the three-season screened-in porch to watch the iconic Iowa pink sunsets. Built with special touches including stained glass and intricate woodwork, this treehouse boasts warmth throughout and is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime get-away.

Guest favourite

A historic red barn stands against a grey sky, covered in a light layer of snow. The structure features a large central door, flanked by two smaller windows. A wooden door with a cross design is visible on the side, enhancing the barn's rustic charm.

Barn in Ames

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 330 reviews

Old Barn Remodel Unique, Artsy, Solar, Glamping!

Open floor plan ground level historic barn turned into an airbnb. All new kitchen area built. Okay fast wifi, Iowa State 10 mins away, Iowa rural but close to ames. Sleep in a trailer, sleep in a boat! Super chill atmosphere on 3 acres with porch to enjoy. Hotel accommodations like air conditioning, heat, clean sheets, towels and coffee/tea but camping style. The barn is self check-in (late arrival friendly) and check out. If needing only 1 night Sun-Thur just ask for offer. Gay Friendly!

Top Guest favourite

A cozy living area features a comfortable gray sofa and a round dining table with two wooden chairs beside it. A smart TV is positioned on a dark wood stand. The vintage archway leads to a separate bedroom adorned with a blue bedspread, enhancing the Scandinavian theme.

Apartment in Story City

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

Scandinavian Apartment in Historic Story City

Our place is a cozy hideaway on the second floor of a historic building in downtown Story City. It is a sweet little town to relax in that is an easy 15-minute drive to Ames and all its amenities. The studio apartment has just been renovated into a Scandinavian-themed sanctuary. The living room has a fold-out couch that sleeps two, a smart TV, and a kitchenette. The bedroom has a very comfy queen-sized bed and the 3/4 bath has all you need to get away in comfort. Free parking is right outside.

Guest favourite

A comfortable living area features a dark brown leather sofa and an armchair. Natural light enters through two windows, illuminating the space. A rustic rug spreads across the floor, and a small lamp stands next to a media console. The kitchen is visible, showcasing wooden cabinetry and modern appliances.

Apartment in Ames

4.83 out of 5 average rating, 288 reviews

4 Bedroom Townhouse in Central Ames!

Stay central to everything Ames has to offer in this 4-bedroom Ames townhome—ideal for Iowa State football weekends, family visits, work trips, wedding weekends, and group getaways. You’ll be 1 mile from Jack Trice Stadium and 6 blocks from downtown shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Each of the four private bedrooms features a queen-size bed and Smart TV. Fast Wi-Fi and convenient self-check-in. Exterior cameras monitor the off-street parking area and entrance 24/7.

Guest favourite

A bright living area features two comfortable chairs, one adorned with a decorative yellow throw. A desk with a lamp and decorative items adds functionality, while large windows with woven shades allow natural light to illuminate the warm wooden floors.

Apartment in Ames

4.89 out of 5 average rating, 312 reviews

Downtown & Campus | Rooftop Patio | Wifi

Our duplex is close to ISU, restaurants, nightlife and parks. It's perfect for students, parents of students, professors, business travelers, solo adventurers, couples, or small groups. • 2 min drive to Iowa State Uni + downtown Ames • Smart TV with Roku •Walking distance to downtown shopping & dining • Apartment space to yourself in safe neighborhood • Private patio/balcony • Keyless entry •1 Br/1 Bath • Onsite washer/dryer (detergent too!) • Fully equipped + stocked kitchen

Top Guest favourite

A single-story home is set in a spacious yard with a well-maintained lawn. The exterior features a welcoming front door, surrounded by green shrubs and trees. A paved driveway leads to an attached garage, extending a sense of spaciousness in a quiet neighborhood.

Home in Ames

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 218 reviews

Cyclone Getaway*ISU*3 Baths*3 Queen Bedrm*6 Adults

Six adults + 2 kids will love our pleasant neighborhood situated near Iowa State University campus. Perfect for attending ISU events, including football and basketball games. Walking distance to football stadium, CY Stephens, Hilton Coliseum, Scheman, soccer field, softball field, Memorial Union, Campustown, Reiman Gardens and more! Outside parking for four vehicles.

Guest favourite

A cozy living area is presented with a plush gray sectional couch, complemented by a round coffee table. A large television sits on a dark storage unit, while natural light enters through two windows adorned with sheer curtains. A potted plant adds a touch of greenery to the space.

Home in Ames

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 113 reviews

1BR-1BA, Sleeps 4 | Near ISU and Downtown Ames

Welcome to our chic urban retreat in the heart of Ames, Iowa! This stylish 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom modern oasis is the perfect escape for couples or solo travelers seeking comfort and convenience. With 600 square feet of thoughtfully designed space, this contemporary hideaway boasts a minimalist aesthetic with a touch of warmth.

Guest favourite

The exterior of the guesthouse is surrounded by vibrant flower beds filled with a variety of colorful blooms. The unique arched roof is complemented by a porch that provides access to the main entrance. Lush greenery and trees frame the scene, enhancing the natural setting.

Farm stay in Ames

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 160 reviews

Onion Creek Farm 1 room, private bath, kitchenette

Onion Creek Farm has hosted guests for 7 years. The guesthouse has a separate entrance and is on the second floor accessed by a stairway. This listing is for the East private room, a bath and kitchenette. We do not serve breakfast. Enjoy the quiet of our farm, the woods and views from the porch. We are one mile from Ames.

Top Guest favourite

The living area features a comfortable sofa and light wood chairs, arranged around a coffee table. A dining table with counter seating overlooks the fully equipped kitchen, with modern cabinetry and appliances. Windows allow natural light to fill the space, enhancing the warm color scheme.

Apartment in Ames

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 190 reviews

Historic Downtown | 1BD Full Apt

Enjoy an unforgettable stay in this stylish, updated historic apartment just steps from downtown Ames. This two‑level retreat features a fully equipped kitchen, elegant living area, serene king bedroom, modern bath, and in‑unit laundry—blending historic charm with refined comfort.

Top Guest favourite

A spacious backyard features a circular stone fire pit surrounded by six rustic chairs. Soft outdoor lighting enhances the area, while a blue house, small shed, and garden beds are visible amidst the lush green lawn. Trees line the perimeter, providing natural shade.

Home in Ames

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviews

The Hideaway on Hazel- Hot Tub, Firepit & Big yard

Welcome to The Hideaway on Hazel. Refreshed in May 2025. Our home is centrally located in Ames and is an easy walk to Jack Trice Stadium, Hilton Coliseum, and Reiman Gardens. Great location for football games, basketball games, and any other events at The Iowa State Center.