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Sonesta Essential Ames

2.0 star property

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Photo gallery for Sonesta Essential Ames

Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub | Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
Indoor pool
Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
Exterior

Reviews

7.6 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
1400 S Dayton Place, Ames, IA, 50010
  • Place, Ames Dog Park
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Main Street Cultural District
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Iowa State University
    ‪6 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed

Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Room, 1 King Bed

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(15 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds

Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Room, 2 Queen Beds

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible

Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower

Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed

Memory foam beds, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

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About the neighborhood

Ames

Sonesta Essential Ames places you within a few miles (5 km) of Cinemark Ames Movies 12 and Ames Dog Park. This 75-room hotel has conveniences like free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour gym.

What's nearby

  • Ames Dog Park - 4 min drive - 2.0 miles
  • Main Street Cultural District - 4 min drive - 2.6 miles
  • Iowa State University - 6 min drive - 5.7 miles
  • Jack Trice Stadium - 6 min drive - 5.2 miles
  • Reiman Gardens - 6 min drive - 5.0 miles

Getting around

  • Des Moines International Airport (DSM) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Panera Bread - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Arby's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬4 min drive

About this property

Sonesta Essential Ames

At Sonesta Essential Ames, guests enjoy features like an indoor pool, a 24-hour gym, and free WiFi in public areas. If you drive, take advantage of free parking. Front-desk staff are standing by 24/7 to assist with any requests. Other amenities at this family-friendly hotel include a 24-hour business center, coffee/tea in a common area, and laundry facilities.
50-inch LED TVs come with cable channels and video-game consoles, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Memory foam beds grant a restful night's sleep, and bathrooms offer rainfall showers, hair dryers, and free toiletries. Other standard amenities include microwaves, coffee makers, and free long-distance calls.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center.

Children under 14 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool without adult supervision.

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Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ames
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • RV/bus/truck parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Books
  • Indoor pool
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • Indoor pool
  • Laundry facilities
  • Mini-fridge

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Laundry facilities
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Business services

  • 24-hour business center

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Accessible bathtub
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Elevator (39 inch wide door)
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible path to elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk (36 inches high)

More

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1996
  • Mosquito nets
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes
  • Memory foam mattress

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shampoo
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 50-inch LED TV with cable channels
  • Video game console

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Mini-fridge

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Free local calls
  • Free long-distance calls
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop workspace
  • Phone

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

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 15 per pet, per night (maximum USD 105 per stay)
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 2 total (80 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 3 kids 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 10.00 per day

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 100 per accommodation, per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • 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

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might 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
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-4:00 AM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with RV, bus, and truck parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Hampton Inn Ames Hotel

Red Roof Inn Ames Hotel

Hampton Inn Hotel Ames

Hampton Inn Ames Iowa

Ames Hampton Inn

Red Roof Inn Ames

Sonesta Essential Ames Ames

Sonesta Essential Ames Hotel

Sonesta Essential Ames Hotel Ames

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do close to Sonesta Essential Ames?

This hotel is located in Ames, close to Main Street Cultural District, Jack Trice Stadium, and Hilton Coliseum. You'll also find Reiman Gardens and Stephens Auditorium within a short drive.

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

As of May 14, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Ames on May 17, 2026 start from $77, including 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.

Will I be able to park at Sonesta Essential Ames?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel. RV/bus/truck parking is also available for guests.

Does Sonesta Essential Ames have a casino at the property?

No, Sonesta Essential Ames doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Sonesta Essential Ames?

Yes, this hotel has an indoor pool.

Is Sonesta Essential Ames a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like a memory foam mattress and a rainfall showerhead as well as an indoor pool.

Are there hot tubs at Sonesta Essential Ames?

No, but some guestrooms at this hotel feature jetted bathtubs.

Does Sonesta Essential Ames have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Sonesta Essential Ames offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does Sonesta Essential Ames allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, cats and dogs are welcome at Sonesta Essential Ames for a fee of USD 15 per pet, per night.

Are there connecting rooms at Sonesta Essential Ames?

Yes, you can book connecting rooms at this hotel for your group or family vacation.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Sonesta Essential Ames?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Sonesta Essential Ames.

Sonesta Essential Ames Reviews

Reviews

7.6

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 322 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 330 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 195 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 90 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 63 out of 1000 reviews

7.6/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.4/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jodi, Hoyt Lakes

Traveled with partner
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

10/10 Excellent

Dawson

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

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

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

8/10 Good

Denise

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
clean
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

2/10 Terrible

John

Did not book stay at hotel
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Laurel

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

4/10 Poor

John

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was cold / bathroom sink very low water pressure / grab handles in shower not attached to wall ceiling had black marks / bed felt like springs were coming out metal base of bed made noise every time you shift. I would not recommend this hotel to anyone. The undisclosed construction and the smells.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

6/10 Okay

Harry

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
A room to sleep in
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Soechun

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Love the free breakfest and variety or chooses and the ac worked good as well as the shower, enjoyed my stay and had excellent service
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Good
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

John

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities
staff was very nice
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Lyle

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness
There was no worker at the front desk- waited for over 5 minutes. The hotel is average. You get what you pay for. Nothing great.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Holly

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Gross out side and in side.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Mary

Disliked: Cleanliness
Stains all over the sheets and pillows.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Justin

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

William

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Bruce

Traveled with group
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

10/10 Excellent

Marvin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was clean. The front desk was helpful and breakfast was good
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Elahe

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Shawn

Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Michelle

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Shower was very very worn which did not match the rest of the updated bathroom. Nice flooring instead of carpet which gives the room a cleaner feeling. Beds were squeaky as other reviews mentioned however they were very comfortable and I slept well. Breakfast was decent and the area was kept very clean and well stocked. All in all, not a bad stay, replace the worn shower walls and it would be better.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Jodi

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Luisa

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Rooms are dirty! Walked in and the toilet seat was gross. Bathroom mirror was written on and housekeeping came to clean it. Tired to show me it doesn't wipe off but it did. So she kept cleaning it up. There was a plastic bag over the fire alarm over the bed which is weird and unsafe
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

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