Family-friendly vacation rentals in Ames

Find and book unique family-friendly homes on Airbnb

Quick stats about vacation rentals that are family-friendly in Ames

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 100 vacation rentals in Ames

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Ames vacation rentals start at G$4,175 GYD per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 4,800 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 20 rentals that welcome pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    60 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    100 of Ames vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Kitchen, Wifi, and Pool across Ames rentals

  • 4.9 Average rating

    Ames stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.9 out of 5!

Top-rated family-friendly rentals in Ames

Guests agree: these family-friendly homes are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
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, 612 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 favorite
The kitchen features classic wooden cabinetry and retro-style appliances, including a pale cream refrigerator. A patterned backsplash complements the checkered floor, while shelves display colorful dinnerware. Natural light fills the space, enhancing the inviting atmosphere for cooking and gathering.
Home in Ankeny
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 212 reviews

Historic Home on 4 Acres - Hot Tub, Pool, Tiki Bar

Our 1948 vacation home is on 4 acres & boasts 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, Bridal Suite (4th bedroom), 70s TV/Game Room, Tiki Bar, & Children's Playroom. Outside we have a pool (guaranteed to be open 5/26 - 9/5) & hot tub (year round). Located 15min away from Downtown DSM & a mile away from a grocery store/restaurants. Up to 2 dogs allowed for an additional fee. ***Events/photo shoots are allowed with written permission only and will be an added fee. No events larger than 25 total.***

Top guest favorite
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.
Vacation home in Ames
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 133 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.

Guest favorite
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, 332 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 favorite
A cozy living area is illuminated by natural light streaming through large, checkered-curtained windows. A deep red armchair offers a comfortable seating option beside a wooden coffee table, while warm-toned wood paneling adds to the inviting ambiance.
Cabin in Nevada
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews

Knotty Pine Bunkhouse

Make some memories at this unique and family-friendly cabin. Relax in the hot tub under the stars, just 10 minutes from Ames and 15 minutes from ISU. Enjoy nearby attractions like a local ice cream shop, disc golf, and delicious cuisine. Perfect for game weekends or a peaceful getaway, this cabin offers the ideal spot for family fun and relaxation. Book your stay today here or browse our other local rentals and make lasting memories! *Hot tub is shared with two other rentals next door.*

Top guest favorite
A welcome sign is displayed on a gray door, showcasing a clean design that adds a friendly touch. The door features a round doorknob, and the surrounding wall exhibits a subtle texture.
Home in Boone
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 438 reviews

Boone's Bodacious Bungalow - A Cozy 2 Bedroom Stay

With 2 bedrooms and a queen-sized hide-a-bed, this cozy little place will comfortably sleep 5. This quiet neighborhood can be enjoyed hanging out on the front porch or out back on the patio. Washer and dryer downstairs if you need to do laundry and all the necessities to make a meal in the kitchen. Just a few minutes from downtown Boone and the Boone Speedway, a short 17 miles to Jack Trice Stadium/Hilton Coliseum in Ames, and less than an hour to the Des Moines International Airport.

Guest favorite
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, 295 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 favorite
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, 314 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 favorite
A spacious living area features a modern design with a large sofa and two green accent chairs. A sleek entertainment unit with a fireplace is centered on the wall. Large windows provide natural light, enhancing the open and airy atmosphere.
Barn in Des Moines
5.0 out of 5 average rating, 175 reviews

8000sqft Barndo | Indoor Court + 2 Living Qtrs

Welcome to The Lodge on 3rd - a massive 8000 sq ft Barndominum. Nestled in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. With 4 spacious bedrooms and a large loft, there is plenty of room for you and your guests to unwind in style. This property is next door to Luxury Living on Third. airbnb.com/h/luxurylivingonthird These combined properties are ideal for family reunions, etc. ***$200 Pet Fee***

Top guest favorite
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, 220 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 favorite
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, 165 reviews

Onion Creek Farm 1 room, private bath, kitchenette

Onion Creek Farm has hosted guests for 13 years. The guesthouse has a separate entrance and is on the second floor accessed by a stairway. This listing is for a private room, a bath and kitchenette. Composting toilet. No A/C. We do not serve breakfast. Enjoy the quiet of our farm, the woods and views from the porch. We are one mile from Ames.

Guest favorite
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, 116 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.

Popular amenities for Ames family-friendly rentals

When is the best time to visit Ames?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg. priceG$28,602 GYDG$31,525 GYDG$29,228 GYDG$37,371 GYDG$48,644 GYDG$35,074 GYDG$38,832 GYDG$39,458 GYDG$47,392 GYDG$43,843 GYDG$43,216 GYDG$37,371 GYD
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