Embrace Fall: 7 Best Outdoor Places in Ames, Iowa

February may be the shortest month of the year, but there’s no shortage of things to do in Ames! Whether you’re looking for a cozy way to spend the colder days or an exciting event to get you out and about, we’ve got you covered. Check out these fun activities happening this month: 1. Valentine’s Day Date Ideas 💕 Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends, consider these ideas: Sweet Caroline’s – Enjoy delicious food and drinks in a cozy downtown setting. Ames Winter Farmers' Market – Pick up locally made treats for a thoughtful, unique gift. Ice Skating at Ames Ice Arena – Glide across the ice for a classic winter date night. 2. Beat the Winter Blues ❄️ Cold weather doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors all season! Here are some ways to stay active and enjoy the winter months: Bring yo u r friends and get creative with Maker Nights at Reiman Gardens ! Ledges State Park Winter Hike – Bundle up and explore the beauty of snow-covered trails. 3. Community Events to Check Out 🎉 Ames has a lot to offer this month! Mark your calendar for these community happenings: Trivia Nights at Local Bars & Cafés – Test your knowledge and win prizes at spots like London Underground and Torrent Brewing . Live Music at Prairie Moon Winery – Enjoy great tunes with a glass of local wine. No matter how you choose to spend February, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Stay warm, stay connected, and most importantly—love where you live! 💙 Looking for a new place to call home? Check out our latest available properties at Elite Property Management !

As the clock strikes midnight and we usher in a brand-new year, it’s hard not to feel a sense of hope and excitement. A new year is like a blank canvas, waiting for the colors of your dreams, goals, and actions to paint a masterpiece. 2025 is no different—it’s your chance to start fresh, dream big, and make it count, right here in Ames, Iowa. New Year’s resolutions often get a bad rap for being fleeting or overly ambitious, but they’re also a powerful way to set the tone for the year ahead. Whether you’re a fan of grand plans or prefer small, meaningful changes, here are some resolution ideas to inspire your journey into 2025—with a local twist. 1. Prioritize Your Health 2025 is the perfect year to focus on your physical and mental well-being. Instead of generic goals like “lose weight” or “get fit,” think about actionable, enjoyable steps. Join a fitness class at the Ames Community Center, take a daily walk in one of Ames’ beautiful parks, or try yoga sessions offered by local studios. 2. Cultivate Gratitude Gratitude has a profound effect on happiness and resilience. Make it a habit to jot down three things you’re grateful for each day. For inspiration, take a serene winter stroll at Ada Hayden Heritage Park and reflect on the beauty around you. 3. Learn Something New Why not make 2025 the year of growth and curiosity? Whether it’s mastering a new language, taking up photography, or learning to cook, Ames offers plenty of opportunities. Check out classes at Iowa State University’s Extension and Outreach Program or explore workshops at the Octagon Center For The Arts. 4. Declutter Your Space A cluttered environment often mirrors a cluttered mind. Start the year by organizing your home, desk, or digital files. Need help? Visit Restore Ames Habitat for Humanity to donate items you no longer need and support a great cause. 5. Strengthen Relationships In our busy lives, it’s easy to let relationships take a backseat. Resolve to nurture your connections in 2025 by reaching out to loved ones more often, being present during conversations, or planning regular get-togethers. For a fun winter outing, consider an ice-skating trip to Ames/ISU Ice Arena. 6. Give Back Consider how you can make a difference this year. Volunteer, support a cause you’re passionate about, or simply commit to acts of kindness. Organizations like Food At First and The Bridge Home in Ames are always looking for helping hands. 7. Focus on Financial Wellness Make 2025 a year of smarter money habits. Create a realistic budget, start an emergency fund, or set specific savings goals. If you’re renting in Ames, connect with us at Elite Property Management to find affordable, high-quality housing that suits your budget. Explore Ames This Winter Ames has so much to offer during the colder months. Here are a few must-try activities: Visit the Reiman Gardens and enjoy their winter exhibits. Attend a Cyclones basketball game at Hilton Coliseum. Warm up with a cup of coffee from Cafe Diem. Take the family to Perfect Games for bowling and arcade fun. Wishing You a Wonderful Year Ahead As we step into 2025, we at Elite Property Management want to wish you a year filled with opportunities, growth, and joy. No matter what resolutions you set (or don’t set), remember that every day is a chance to start anew. Be kind to yourself, embrace the journey, and celebrate even the smallest victories. Here’s to a year of dreaming big, living fully, and making every moment count. Happy New Year from all of us at Elite Property Management!