Sonesta Essential Ames Motel Amenities photoSonesta Essential Ames Motel Room photoSonesta Essential Ames Motel Room photo
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From210US$ /night
Check-in
22Apr2026Select date
Check-out
23Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

1400 S Dayton Place, Ames, Iowa, United States
-
Near Iowa State University
Very good
7.8
7.1
/10
3.2
/5

Featuring a lift and a vending machine, the smoke-free Sonesta Essential Ames Motel is nestled in Ames, 4.8 km from the Brunnier Art Museum. The 2-star motel also offers guests Wi-Fi in public areas.

Location

This comfortable hotel is located in a rural area of Ames, about 10 minutes by car from the 14 - acre Butterfly Park. Iowa State University is within 6 km of the Sonesta Essential Ames Motel and Boone Municipal airport is 35 km away.

The property is also within a few blocks of Heritage Park. The nearby sports attractions feature the Furman Aquatic Center within a 15-minute drive of the hotel.

Rooms

This accommodation has 75 rooms appointed with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a radio, as well as self-catering options such as tea and coffee making facilities. Ironing equipment and an air conditioner are featured for guests' comfort. The bathrooms come with a separate toilet and a shower, along with toiletries and bath sheets.

Eat & Drink

Sonesta Essential Ames Motel breakfast features bread, cereals, and waffles. There is a restaurant serving Mexican food 250 metres away.

Leisure & Business

A gym and an indoor swimming pool can be booked at this Ames hotel at an extra charge. Thanks to bike trails and a golf course, guests can stay fit at Sonesta Essential Ames Motel.

“Sonesta Essential Ames strikes me as a straightforward option for families needing a place to land while in town. Reports suggest some inconsistencies in room upkeep, yet the friendly service seems a consistent highlight. I imagine the well-stocked breakfast is a welcome start to the day before heading out.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Dogfriendly-hotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides many room choices—family rooms, doubles, and pet-friendly suites—with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers
King Jetted Tub
2 persons
37 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
King Sofa Bed
2 persons
35 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Heating
2 Queen Beds
2 persons
33 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Heating
Accessible King Roll Shower
2 persons
33 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Hotels feature amenities designed to keep both you and your pet comfortable
Facilities: Very good
7.5/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Lift
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's buffet

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Parquet floor
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Hotel location

1400 S Dayton Place, Ames, Iowa, United States
Map view
1400 S Dayton Place, Ames, Iowa, United States
Restaurants
Kum & Go
690 m
2108 Isaac Newton Dr
Explore Ames
Explore Ames
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Cornerstone Church
15 minutes' walk
A historic church known for its stunning architecture and community events. A peaceful spot for reflection and appreciation.
Billy Sunday Birthplace Rock
20 minutes' walk
Marked by a commemorative rock, this site pays tribute to the influential preacher Billy Sunday, ideal for history enthusiasts.
Iowa State University
15 minutes' drive
A beautiful campus with gardens, museums, and art installations. Often hosts events and exhibits open to the public.
Cinemark Movies 12
30 minutes' walk
A modern movie theater showing the latest films. Great for a fun evening out with family or friends.
Outdoor Hiking at Izaak Walton League Park
40 minutes' walk
Scenic hiking trails ideal for nature lovers. Offers ample space for picnics and viewing wildlife in its natural habitat.
Yoga at Local Studios
10 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga classes available for all levels. A perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploring.
Kum & Go
9 minutes' walk
Casual convenience store offering fresh foods and snacks. Ideal for quick bites on the go or refreshments.
The Cafe
15 minutes' drive
Cozy spot featuring local specialties and seasonal dishes. Reservations recommended for peak times.
Twentieth Century Bowling
30 minutes' walk
Bowling alley offering a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for families and groups with nightly events and specials.
Live Music at Local Bars
10 minutes' drive
Venues featuring local bands and open mic nights. Great for a lively evening out with friends or dates.
Local transport and travel tips
City Centre
Ames7 min  ·  4.1 km
Airports
Boone Municipal (BNW)46 min  ·  30.1 km
Des Moines International (DSM)92 min  ·  60.9 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
Spanish
Number of rooms:
75
Former name
Hampton Inn Ames

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Sonesta Essential Ames Motel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 183 verified reviews
6.6/10
Nice
52%
Recommend
Breakfast
6.0/10
Cleanliness
7.9/10
Comfort
7.9/10
Facilities
7.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
2.5/10
Location
8.5/10
Paid Wi-Fi
5.5/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Calm location
Polite staff
Nice breakfast
Cons
Rude owners
Unclean room
Guest reviews
based on 196 reviews
7.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Sonesta Essential Ames
What is the distance from Sonesta Essential Ames to Des Moines International Airport?
The hotel is 35 km from Des Moines International Airport.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sonesta Essential Ames?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
What dining options are available at Sonesta Essential Ames?
The hotel serves a complimentary continental breakfast daily, featuring waffles, fresh fruit, and oatmeal.
Is Sonesta Essential Ames pet-friendly?
The hotel is pet-friendly, with a fee of $20 per pet per night.
What amenities can guests find in the rooms at Sonesta Essential Ames?
Rooms include a 50-inch Smart TV, air conditioning, a mini refrigerator, a microwave, and a coffee maker.
What recreational facilities does Sonesta Essential Ames offer?
Guests can enjoy a large indoor swimming pool and a 24-hour fitness center.
Are there any laundry services available at Sonesta Essential Ames?
The hotel offers paid guest laundry services.
How far is Sonesta Essential Ames from the Ames Historical Society Museum?
The Ames Historical Society Museum is approximately 3 km from the hotel.
What business services does Sonesta Essential Ames provide?
The hotel features a 24-hour business center with photocopying services.
Is parking available at Sonesta Essential Ames?
Free private parking is available on-site without a reservation.
What languages do the staff at Sonesta Essential Ames speak?
The staff primarily communicates in English.
Are there any attractions near Sonesta Essential Ames?
Nearby attractions include Octagon Center for the Arts and Reiman Gardens, both within 5 km.
What is the maximum number of pets allowed at Sonesta Essential Ames?
A maximum of two pets are allowed, with charges applicable.

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Check-in
22Apr2026Select date
Check-out
23Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room