Sonesta Essential Ames

2.0 star property
Travelers start their day with a complimentary continental breakfast before heading to the 24-hour fitness center to maintain workout routines

Choose dates to view prices

Just steps from Iowa State University, Red Roof Inn Ames offers convenience and comfort. Enjoy a continental breakfast to energize your morning, a 24-hour gym to stay fit, in-room WiFi to stay connected, and attentive staff for a pleasant stay.

Reviews

7.6 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
The current price is AED 269
AED 301 total
includes taxes & fees
31 May - 1 Jun

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About this property

Sonesta Essential Ames

  • Family-friendly hotel near Iowa State University
  • Consider a stay at Sonesta Essential Ames and take advantage of free continental breakfast, laundry facilities, and a 24-hour gym. Free in-room WiFi and a 24-hour business center are available to all guests.
  • Other perks at this hotel include:
    • An indoor pool
    • Free self parking
    • RV/bus/truck parking, a vending machine, and an elevator
    • Laundry services, coffee/tea in the lobby, and smoke-free premises
    • Guest reviews speak highly of the helpful staff
  • Room features
  • All 75 rooms feature comforts such as laptop-friendly workspaces and air conditioning, as well as thoughtful touches like free WiFi and desk chairs. Guest reviews speak well of the clean rooms at the property.
  • Extra conveniences in all rooms include:
    • Rainfall showers, shower/tub combinations, and free toiletries
    • 50-inch HDTVs with cable channels
    • Mini fridges, microwaves, and video-game consoles

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 4:00 AM

Late check-in subject to availability

Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

Pets allowed for an extra charge of USD 15 per pet, per night (maximum USD 105 per stay)

Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees

Welcoming dogs and cats only

2 total (up to 80 lbs per pet)

Pets cannot be left unattended

Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

3 children, up to the age of 18 years, can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room

Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 10.00 per day

Cribs (infant beds) are not available

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes:

  • Deposit: USD 100 per accommodation, per stay

We have included all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

  • Pet fee: USD 15 per pet, per night (maximum USD 105 per stay)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 10.00 per day

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Daily housekeeping is included for stays of 6 nights or less. Limited housekeeping is provided for stays of 7 nights or more.
Pets must be declared at check-in. Guests bringing 1 pet will not be charged pet fees. The listed pet fee in the Fees section applies only if guests bring 2 or more pets. Pets must be leashed in public areas of the property. Guests are expected to clean up after their pet.

We should mention

The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation
Children under 14 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool without adult supervision
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly)

Frequently asked questions

Does Sonesta Essential Ames have a pool?

Yes, this property has an indoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at Sonesta Essential Ames?

As of 20 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Ames on 31 May 2026 start from AED 269, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is Sonesta Essential Ames pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 80 lbs per pet. There's a fee of USD 15 per pet, per night. Service animals are exempt from fees. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking?

Self parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Sonesta Essential Ames?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 4:00 AM. Late check-in is available during limited hours.

What time is check-out at Sonesta Essential Ames?

Check-out is at 11 AM.

Where is Sonesta Essential Ames located?

This family-friendly Ames hotel is located in a rural location, within 3 mi (5 km) of Cinemark Ames Movies 12, Octagon Center for the Arts and Main Street Cultural District. Ames Dog Park is 2.2 mi (3.5 km) away.

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Reviews

Reviews

7.6

Good

7.6

Cleanliness

8.0

Location

8.4

Staff & service

7.2

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 323 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 329 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 196 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 90 out of 1001 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 63 out of 1001 reviews

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lane

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The room was very clean and the bed was very comfy. I did not get to try the breakfast so I cannot put my input on that one and the AC worked phenomenal it kept the room nice and cool.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This hotel is a hidden gem! Nothing fancy but a nice clean room, comfortable bed, extremely helpful staff at a price that can’t be beat! We will be back!!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tamela

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
It was very clean. Staff was kind. Breakfast was what we needed.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Allison

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The rooms were clean and the staff was very friendly. But the beds and pillows were extremely hard. I woke up with hip and back aches. I didn't hate my experience but I wouldn't stay again just because it was so uncomfortable.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

Zong

Liked: Staff & service
Breakfast was limited but free. Staff at night was kind and attentive. Air conditioning worked well. Our particular mattress had a couple bad springs paired with tossing and turning, it wasnt the best sleep. For the price and amenities, it was worth it. However as a lone female it did not feel the most safe. Guys in trucks sitting out in the parking lot. I checked n
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Sapna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Staff courteous and it was clean, basic, no frills, good for 1 night
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jodi

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was clean. Check in was quick and easy and staff were very kind.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

6/10 Okay

maureen

Liked: Staff & service
The room , bathroom could use some upgrade. Desk chair was old and has rips. Mini fridge dented and scratched.Bath tub has rust on water spout. Staff was very friendly though .
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Toni

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Was very helpful when the heat wasn't working moved me to a room with great heat!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The room was extremely clean. I would stay here again. Breakfast was sufficient.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our room was clean, bed was fairly comfortable, and the breakfast was above average for a budget friendly hotel. The hotel staff was friendly as well. Overall, we were pleased with our stay and would stay again if needed. The motel fit our needs and our budget.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pamela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly staff, overall great place to stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very clean and fresh aroma throughout Caretakers were visible in various areas which was a good feeling. Very friendly smiles and pleasant atmosphere. Have family n the area so will definitely stay again. Reasonably prices
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Franz

Nice clean cheap
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Suzanne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
It was overall a nice place to stay. Had an odd smell in hallways but was very clean. Not much protein choices for breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Leslie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The staff were very pleasant and the rooms were clean and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Booking and check-in were hassle free. Anything I needed staff was immediately ready to assist. Quiet and close to good food and gas stations only about 5 minutes away from anything else you might need. Close to the highway. And great rates. Clean rooms and pet friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was fine; clean, spacious. Not fancy but good value.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Liz

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wish the gym was better, everything else was good overall.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Bruce

Liked: Staff & service
This property is fine for a place to crash over night for a "guys trip" or similar, but would not use for a trip with my family, just due to general cleanliness and location. Bathrooms showed signs of light mold on caulking and around the tub, but "touch" surfaces were clean. Staff was very friendly and helpful (1st room had issue with AC unit and they quickly got me moved to another room).
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diane

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms were clean and neat. I like the "no carpet" rooms. They feel cleaner. The water was hot and i liked having a refrigerator in my room. The breakfast was good and the people were friendly
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Clyde

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly staff to work with.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Ann

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was clean and quiet. Breakfast was good. Staff were very friendly. My only complaint was the air freshener used in the lobby and room was extremely strong. It was overwhelming at times.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Delia

It was wonderful very friendly
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Valerie

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The inside of the hotel was nice and updated as was the room. The only issue we had was when we flushed the toilet in room 109 it made a loud squeaking noise for a while. Otherwise everything was good. Breakfast was also very good.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025