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Iowa City, IA, USA to Ames, IA, USA from $36: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Iowa City, United States
to
Ames, United States

How to Get from Iowa City to Ames: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$36 by busBest price
222 kmDistance
2h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Iowa City to Ames with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$52-107
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  13m
Estimated price
$36-70
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 222 km
Duration: 2h 17m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  17m
Estimated price
$25-40

Iowa City - Ames operators

Explore transport companies operating between Iowa City and Ames, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Iowa City, Ia to Cedar Rapids, Ia

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$52-107

Bus from Cedar Rapids, Ia to Ames, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$36-70
Contact phone
+1-319-362-0375
Website
380express.com

Bus from Court St Transportation Center to GTC Bay 9

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$526-526

Iowa City to Ames: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Iowa City and Ames offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic drive from Iowa City to Ames, covering a distance of 138 miles. The journey promises picturesque landscapes and smooth highways. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of car travel with prices ranging from $25 to $40 for the trip. Choose the route that fits your budget and schedule for a convenient ride between the two vibrant Iowa cities. 🛣️ Cruise along for approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes to reach your destination. With good music and company, the road trip from Iowa City to Ames is both efficient and enjoyable.
Average price
$25 - $40
🚌 Traveling from Iowa City to Ames by bus may require a transfer in Cedar Rapids. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes. 🚌 Burlington Trailways operates the bus services from Iowa City to Ames, with departures and arrivals at designated stations. The cost of the bus ticket can range from $52 to $107.
Departure Point
Iowa City, Ia station
Arrival Point
Ames, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Iowa City to Ames.

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The distance between Iowa City and Ames in the United States is approximately 179 km by air and 222 km by road. Travel time by car is approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes. If you prefer to take a bus, the travel time is approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Iowa City to Ames is by driving. This option costs around $25 to $40 and takes approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes.
When traveling from Iowa City to Ames, the bus prices range from $52 to $107.
To travel from Iowa City to Ames without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 222 km, which takes approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes. The driving route usually costs between $25 to $40 in fuel expenses and toll fees.
If you're looking to travel from Iowa City to Ames without a car, taking a bus is the best option. The bus journey typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes, and tickets can cost anywhere from $50 to $110.
There is no direct bus connection between Iowa City and Ames. However, there are bus services available that depart from Iowa City and arrive in Ames with a transfer in Cedar Rapids. The journey by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes. It is also possible to travel between the two cities by car, which takes about 2 hours and 17 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Ames. There are over 39 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $54 and ranging to higher-end options. Some popular hotels in the area include the Iowa House Ames - Campus Inn and Suites, the Hilton Garden Inn Ames, and the Hampton Inn & Suites Ames.