Discover the Natural Beauty of McFarland Park
Experience the serene beauty of McFarland Park in Ames, Iowa, where nature meets recreation in a picturesque setting perfect for all ages.
McFarland Park is a serene and picturesque destination in Ames, Iowa, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A brief summary to McFarland Park
- 56461 180th St, Ames, Iowa, 50010, US
- +1515-232-2516
- Visit website
- Monday 5 am-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 5 am-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 5 am-10:30 pm
- Thursday 5 am-10:30 pm
- Friday 5 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 5 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 5 am-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic picnic spots throughout the park.
- Don't forget your camera; the park's natural beauty is perfect for photography.
- Check the park's events calendar for seasonal activities and programs during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the walking and biking trails.
Getting There
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Bicycle
If you're in central Ames, you can rent a bicycle from a local bike shop or use a bike-sharing service. Start by heading north on Welch Avenue until you reach 13th Street. Turn right on 13th Street and continue heading east until you reach Grand Avenue. Turn left onto Grand Avenue and follow it north. You will pass several parks along the way. Continue on Grand Avenue until you reach 180th Street. Turn right on 180th Street, and McFarland Park will be on your left after a short distance.
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Public Transit
From central Ames, you can take the CyRide bus service. Board the Red route bus at any of the central stops (such as in front of City Hall). Ride the bus until you reach the stop at 180th Street. From there, you can walk approximately 0.5 miles southwest along 180th Street, and you will arrive at McFarland Park.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from the Ames Public Library located at 620 Lincoln Way. Head north on Lincoln Way until you reach Grand Avenue. Turn left on Grand Avenue and walk north until you reach 180th Street. Turn right on 180th Street, and continue walking for about 1.5 miles. McFarland Park will be on your left side. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Discover more about McFarland Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ada Hayden Heritage Park Lake
5.9 km
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Inside Golf & Games
6.7 km
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North Grand Mall
6.7 km
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Ames Romero House
8.5 km
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Site of the First House in Ames Historical Marker
8.5 km
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McClanahan Studio
8.5 km
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The Great Plains Sauce & Dough Co.
8.6 km
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Torrent Brewing Company
8.6 km
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Whiskey River Ames
8.6 km
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Worldly Goods
8.6 km
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Inkblot Studio
8.6 km
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London Underground
8.6 km
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Chocolaterie Stam
8.6 km
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Ames City Hall
8.7 km
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Z.W. Mercantile
8.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ada Hayden Heritage Park
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Inis Grove Park
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Old Town Historic District
8.3 km
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Bandshell Park
8.4 km
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Furman Aquatic Center
8.4 km
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Durham Bandshell
8.4 km
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Rainbow Crosswalk (Ames)
8.5 km
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Ames History Museum
8.5 km
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Octagon Center For the Arts
8.5 km
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Moore Memorial Park
8.9 km
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Brookside Park
9.0 km
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Farm House Museum
9.8 km
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Brunnier Art Museum
9.9 km
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Christian Petersen Art Museum
10.0 km
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Reiman Gardens
10.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Ge-Angelo's
6.3 km
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Flame and Skewer
6.7 km
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Pasta Al Forno Italian Restaurant
6.8 km
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Pho & Tea
7.0 km
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Wallaby's Bar and Grille
8.0 km
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The Cafe
8.0 km
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Brick City Grill
8.1 km
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Rico's Tacos
8.6 km
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The Grove Cafe
8.6 km
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Botanero Latino Colombian & International Cuisine
8.6 km
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Sweet Caroline's
8.7 km
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The Spice Thai Cuisine
8.7 km
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Aunt Maude's
8.8 km
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Cornbred Barbecue
8.9 km
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Chick-fil-A
9.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Funky Zebras Ames
6.5 km
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JCPenney
6.7 km
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Carolyn's Hallmark Shop
6.7 km
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Ragstock
6.8 km
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Buckle
6.8 km
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Strawberry Patch
6.8 km
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Kohl's
7.0 km
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Mary Greeley Gift Shop
7.8 km
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We the Dreamerz
8.5 km
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Little Woods: Herbs and Teas
8.6 km
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Tiny Joy Creations
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The Hobby Shop
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The Loft Resale
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Kaylee
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Potter's Shoppe & Eatery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
313 Bar & Lounge
8.5 km
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The Angry Irishmen
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Noir
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Tip Top Lounge
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Bottoms Up Bar & Lounge Ames
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Cellar 626
9.2 km
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AJ's Ultra Lounge — Ames
10.5 km
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Mickey's Irish Pub
10.5 km
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Paddy's Irish Pub
10.5 km
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Cy's Roost
10.6 km
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Thumbs
10.6 km
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Welch Ave. Station
10.6 km
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Outlaws
10.7 km
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Mother's Pub and Coffee
10.7 km
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The Blue Owl Bar
10.7 km
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