Best Places to Visit When Driving From Ames, Iowa to Ankeny, Iowa

Are you planning a road trip from Ames to Ankeny, Iowa? Do you want to make the most out of your journey? If yes, then you're in the right place! The road trip from Ames to Ankeny is full of picturesque landscapes, gorgeous sunsets, and delicious local food spots. With this blog post, we'll guide you through the top places to visit and things to do along the way.

You'll roughly drive for about 23 minutes and 15 miles to get to Ankeny from Ames. But don't let the short distance fool you! The highway road trip is worth every bit, and there's plenty to explore along the way. Here are the top places to visit when driving from Ames to Ankeny:

Relish the Beautiful Nature - Ada Hayden Heritage Park

The Ada Hayden Heritage Park is located in Ames and is an excellent place to start your road trip from Ames to Ankeny. Especially if you're looking for a place to immerse yourself in the gorgeous nature of Iowa. This park is home to over 430 acres of land and many trails that can keep you engaged for hours. You can take a stroll along the lakeside and take stunning pictures from the shoreline. Or, if you're more adventurous, take your bike and conquer the many miles-long trail that meanders through the park's scenery.

Delve into History - Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad

The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad started its operation back in the early 1900s, and its legacy continues to fascinate people today. The scenic railway attracts tourists from all around the globe, and for good reasons. From Ames, it might take you around 30 minutes to get there, but the destination is well worth the wait. The train ride takes you through the beautiful Boone countryside, and you get to experience the state's rich heritage first-hand.

Treat Your Taste Buds - Prairie Moon Winery and Vineyards

Prairie Moon Winery is an excellent place for wine lovers to visit when traveling from Ames to Ankeny. This local winery boasts a fantastic variety of locally produced wines you can sample. Here you can learn about how different wine varietals are made, their origin stories, and what makes them unique. More than the wine, the scenery of Prairie Moon Winery will captivate you as you stroll through its vast fields of vineyards and lush green trees.

Relax in the Serene Surroundings - Ledges State Park

This beautiful state park is the perfect way to take a break from driving and unwind in the natural Iowa scenery. Ledges State Park provides hiking opportunities, biking around the rugged terrain, picnicking beneath the captivating arrays of trees. Those daring enough can have rock climbing or rappelling on the towering cliffs that provide a breathtaking view of the park. While this park is in the middle of your journey, you'll need at least an hour or two to fully experience all it has to offer.

Learn & Explore - Iowa State University

Iowa State University is located in Ames city and is the first stop for anyone seeking to learn more about the Hawkeye State's culture and history. The campus is vast and packed with buildings bearing significant architectural reminiscences. The ISU Museum of Art is world-renowned for its extensive art collection and exhibits that fascinate visitors. You can also learn more about the history of the university and the groundbreaking research they conduct through the many galleries and displays on campus.

Conclusion

The road trip from Ames to Ankeny, Iowa, is less than thirty miles away but still offers plenty of activities and sights to keep you and your loved ones entertained throughout the road journey. From historical landmarks and serene state parks to locally-produced wines and picturesque vineyards, there is something for everyone when traveling this route. Don't hesitate to take your time to stop and enjoy the scenery, food, and activities that Iowa has to offer.