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Sonesta Essential Ames

Property class: 2

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Photo gallery for Sonesta Essential Ames

A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.
A swimming pool with a tiled floor and walls, surrounded by chairs and tables.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a sofa, and a TV.
A hotel room with a desk, chair, TV, lamp, and a mirror.
A Sonesta Essential Hotel with a modern design, featuring a large entrance and a parking lot.

Reviews

7.6 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • 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
    ‪5 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed

A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.

Room, 1 King Bed

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(21 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds

A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.

Room, 2 Queen Beds

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible

A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.

Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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

A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.

Room, 1 King Bed, Roll-in Shower

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(3 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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

A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.

Room, 1 King Bed, Jetted Tub

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
  • Free WiFi

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

A modern dining area with a kitchen in the background, a flat-screen TV displaying "Free Wi-Fi All Rooms", and a ceiling fan.

Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed

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

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About the neighborhood

Ames

Sonesta Essential Ames places you within a few miles (5 km) of Iowa State University and Cinemark Ames Movies 12. 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 - 5 min drive - 4.4 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

  • ‪Chick-fil-A - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Panera Bread - ‬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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  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
7.8 out of 10, Good, 1,012 reviews
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The price is $86
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Total with taxes and fees
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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: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
A late check-out fee will be charged

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
  • A late check-out fee will be charged
  • 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: 21
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 Jack Trice Stadium, Main Street Cultural District, 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 Sep 9, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sonesta Essential Ames on Oct 5, 2026 start from $72, 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 rainfall showerhead and a memory foam mattress 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. 324 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 325 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 201 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 89 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 61 out of 1000 reviews

7.6/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.4/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

8/10 Good

Jean

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was clean and the staff very welcoming and nice.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tracie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room, friendly staff
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

David

The room was clean and the breakfast was good.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Renee

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Air conditioner worked very well. Staff was professional. The bed was very comfortable 😊
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Leilania

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly staff. Pleasant environment. Pet friendly. Pool was warm and open. Rooms were nice
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Ken

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
Older motel. Trying to remodel/laying new carpet. Okay for the price.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Hotel was clean and the staff was accommodating
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Kimberly

It was a convenient location
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hillary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Front desk was helpful in adding a couple more nights to our room assignment in a blizzard. Spacious bathroom layout. Mom enjoyed her stay.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Corrie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent for the price.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

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 review

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 review

10/10 Excellent

Jane

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
For the price of the room, it was clean, great staff and served a breakfast. We had 2 dogs with us.. there was plenty of outside green space in a good neighborhood to feel safe. We will return.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Jacqueline

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Property is safe as a solo traveler. Definitely an older property that they are slowly trying to update. Beds are rough and fixtures had visible rust. Walls are very thin. Overall fine if you need a place for the night.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Hannah

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
Comforter and sheets were stained, there was hair in the shower. Bed was terribly uncomfortable with no cushion on it
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

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 review

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 review

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 review

6/10 Okay

Carrie

Liked: Staff & service
OK
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Anthony

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was very clean. Seemed to have near new paint, carpet, furniture, bathroom. Halls were not so clean. Carpets were older and dirty. Hallways smelled like a wet dog. Breakfast wasn't great. Cereal, toast, waffles, something in a warmer but I didn't check. Ended up going elsewhere. Staff was very friendly. Easy check in and out. Overall met the need of a place to sleep and room was clean. Would stay again. Hopefully the hallways would be updated before the next time.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

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 review

10/10 Excellent

DAVID

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We arrived just before 9pm, and My hubby asked if the pool was open, because his wife was really looking forward to it. I got there by 9:30 qnd I managed to do my usual 9 laps because I was the only one there. We both had a great nights sleep.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Thomas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Decent hotel
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

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
Verified review

8/10 Good

John

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