Charter Bus Rentals in Ames
Ames Charter Bus is your #1 source for a charter bus rental in Ames and across Iowa, offering a wide range of vehicles for any event. From sprinter vans and minibuses to full-size motorcoaches and party buses, we have the perfect vehicle for your group. Whether you need a campus shuttle at Iowa State, a wedding shuttle, or a corporate event bus, our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way. You can get pricing in seconds using our online quote tool or by calling us. We proudly serve Ames, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Davenport, Sioux City, and beyond. When you book with Ames Charter Bus, you get reliability, experience, and 24/7 support you can trust!
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About Ames Charter Bus
Ames Charter Bus is your trusted charter bus company serving Ames, Iowa, and the entire Des Moines metropolitan area. Since 2011, we have helped thousands of groups move comfortably across Story County, whether it's a campus shuttle at Iowa State University or a corporate event in downtown Des Moines. Our 24/7 reservation team is here to handle every detail-from navigating game day traffic on I-35 to coordinating airport transfers at Des Moines International Airport (DSM). When you book with Ames Charter Bus, you'll enjoy a seamless process, modern amenities, and a vehicle that perfectly fits your itinerary.
Types of Buses Available in the Ames Charter Bus Fleet
Ames Charter Bus offers a large fleet of buses including the vehicles below. If you need something else, let us know!
15 Passenger Minibus
15 Passenger Party Bus
18 Passenger Minibus
18 Passenger Party Bus
20 Passenger Minibus
20 Passenger Party Bus
25 Passenger Minibus
25 Passenger Party Bus
28 Passenger Minibus
28 Passenger Party Bus
30 Passenger Minibus
30 Passenger Party Bus
35 Passenger Minibus
40 Passenger Party Bus
50 Passenger Charter Bus
50 Passenger Party Bus
54 Passenger Charter Bus
55 Passenger Charter Bus
56 Passenger Charter Bus
Sprinter Limo
Sprinter Van
You'll Have the Best Amenities
When you book with Ames Charter Bus, you'll get the best amenities for your group, no matter the event. Store your luggage in undercarriage bays on your full-size motorcoach, keep the energy high with a Bluetooth speaker on your party bus, or enjoy your very own wet bar on a 15-passenger minibus for your bachelorette party. From built-in WiFi to overhead TV monitors and even ADA features like extra-wide aisles and wheelchair lifts, we have every amenity you could ask for. A quick call to our team any time at 563-526-8370 will get you a list of available amenities and a free quote, so you can find exactly what you need at a price that fits your budget.
Comfortable Leather Seating
Climate Control
Onboard Restroom (on select models)
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Power Outlets and USB Ports
Entertainment Systems
Ample Luggage Space
Bluetooth/AUX Sound System
Charter Bus Prices in Ames
How much does a charter bus rental cost in Ames? Daily rates for a full-size motorcoach in Ames typically range from $1,200 to $3,000 per day, with hourly pricing between $150 and $350 depending on mileage, season, and vehicle size. Minibuses usually fall between $800 and $2,200 per day. Since Ames is a major college town, hotel rates and lodging taxes can spike during big events-especially Cy-Hawk weekend-so booking your charter bus early helps you lock in the best pricing before that surge hits.
The table below outlines estimated charter bus prices in Ames by vehicle type so you can compare typical hourly, daily, and mileage ranges.
| Type of Bus | Per Hour | Per Day | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coach Bus | $180 – $485 | $1,400 – $3,800 | $4.50 – $8.75 |
| Minibus | $135 – $475 | $1,350 – $3,650 | $5.00 – $8.50 |
| School Bus | $150 – $465 | $1,350 – $3,550 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Shuttle Bus | $135 – $475 | $1,350 – $3,650 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Sprinter Van | $135 – $445 | $1,350 – $3,350 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Party Bus | $135 – $545 | $1,350 – $3,750 | $5.00 – $7.50 |
| Actual pricing in Ames depends on route details, event timing, passenger totals, amenities, and seasonal availability. | |||
Why Choose Ames Charter Bus
Ames Charter Bus has served groups across Iowa for over a decade, moving thousands of passengers with a record of reliability. Our 24/7 reservation team is always available to answer your questions, help you build a custom itinerary, and match your group to the perfect vehicle from our fleet. Whether you need a minibus for a campus tour or a full-size charter bus for a Cyclones game, we'll make sure your trip is comfortable, on time, and stress-free. When you book with Ames Charter Bus, you're choosing a company that puts your satisfaction first every mile of the way.
Ames Group Transportation Services We Offer
From academic conferences at Iowa State University to family reunions at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Ames Charter Bus provides reliable transportation for any occasion. Move your campus group between classes at the Memorial Union (2229 Lincoln Way) without worrying about crowded CyRide buses, or take your high school sports team to cheer on the Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium. Planning a wedding? We provide seamless shuttles between hotels and venues like Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd) or the CPM Events Center, so guests don't get lost navigating Highway 30. With an Ames charter bus rental, your group stays coordinated, comfortable, and on schedule-no matter the destination.

Ames Airport Transportation
Skip the long-distance pickup and dropoff coordination when you reserve a charter bus for airport transfers. Instead of splitting up your group to account for different arrival times, keep everyone together in a private airport shuttle. Whether your group is flying into or out of Des Moines International Airport, we'll keep your trip on track with a recurring airport shuttle service. We'll account for travel time through the DSM metro area (including "the Mix" where I-35 and I-80 meet), and provide a smooth ride with no need to battle traffic on I-235. Your charter bus driver will handle every detail while you enjoy a comfortable ride with reclining seats, overhead monitors, and even WiFi for streaming or catching up on emails.
Coordinating a campus airport shuttle for students and staff? Our airport transportation service ensures efficient pickups and drop-offs at Des Moines International Airport (2200 Fleur Dr, Des Moines, IA 50321). With custom routes and flexible scheduling, your group avoids the hassle of navigating I-35 South and stays on track for important departures.

Ames Concert Transportation
When the Iowa State Center's Stephens Auditorium hosts a major show, or your favorite artist is playing at Wooly's in Des Moines, a concert shuttle is the best way to keep your group together. Instead of drawing straws for designated drivers or paying a fortune for rideshares, a private bus ensures everyone arrives together and departs safely, no matter how the setlist ends. For large-scale events like the Maximum Ames Music Festival, organizers can rely on us for efficient attendee shuttles between venues, helping manage downtown congestion during peak hours.
We've served thousands of groups across Iowa, so whether it's a charter bus in Cedar Rapids for a show at the Paramount Theatre or a Des Moines charter bus for the Iowa State Fair Grandstand concerts, we've done it before. You'll get a modern vehicle with a driver, seamless logistics, and 24/7 customer support-all at a price that fits your budget.

Ames Corporate Shuttle Services
For large events at the Iowa State Center, Ames Water Plant (1800 E 13th St, Ames, IA 50010), or the Ames Public Library, a corporate event shuttle keeps your team on schedule. When your company needs reliable transportation for conferences at the Iowa State Center (1900 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014), we're here to help. Your driver will know exactly how to navigate the University Boulevard bottleneck and drop attendees at the Stephens Auditorium west entrance without any parking hassles-which is exactly what you need! From sprinter vans for small groups to full-size motorcoaches for large-scale events, we provide comfortable, modern vehicles with WiFi, power outlets, and reclining seats.
Whether it's a daily employee shuttle or a convention charter bus, we ensure your staff and guests travel efficiently between Downtown Ames, ISU campus, and hotels near I-35.

Ames Employee Shuttle Services
For employers with offices in Ames, workforce transportation is essential. Whether you're arranging construction shuttles for job sites across Story County or coordinating employee transfers within the Iowa State University campus, a private charter bus ensures your team arrives on time. Avoid congested morning traffic on US-30 and late afternoon backups on I-35 near the Huxley exit by letting a driver handle the commute. Every motorcoach in our fleet can include overhead storage for hard hats and safety gear, reclining seats for a comfortable ride, and WiFi hotspots so employees can check emails before the day starts.
For remote worksites, we also provide Des Moines charter bus rentals, ensuring safe transportation for crews coming from surrounding areas. With flexible scheduling and transparent Ames charter bus pricing, you can coordinate reliable transportation that keeps your projects on track and your workforce satisfied.

Ames Field Trip Transportation
For field trip transportation in Ames, charter buses are the top choice for keeping students and teachers together. Instead of splitting into carpools, a Ames charter bus rental keeps everyone on schedule for destinations like the Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011) or the Brunnier Art Museum (295 Scheman Blvd, Ames, IA 50011). You can choose anything from a minibus to a full-size motorcoach, all with reclining seats, WiFi, and TV monitors to keep kids entertained. Your driver will handle the tight turns around the ISU campus and give your group a smooth ride straight down Lincoln Way. It's the easiest way to move a school group, scout troop, or youth organization around Ames without any parent pickup confusion.

Ames Government & Military Transportation
For government and military groups traveling to or from the Iowa National Guard Armory (2515 Chamberlain St, Ames, IA 50014), an Ames charter bus allows your team to bypass the heavy local traffic on Lincoln Way and Carroll Boulevard. Your group can also enjoy trips to the Ames City Hall (515 Clark Ave, Ames, IA 50010) without worrying about the lack of parking for oversized vehicles in the downtown district. Our fleet includes GSA-compliant and DoD-approved options, so your team can enjoy a comfortable ride while meeting any mandatory travel regulations. Local government groups can also rely on an Ames charter bus for trips to the Story County Justice Center (1315 S Bunnell St, Ames, IA 50010) or the Ames Police Department.

Ames Long-Distance Bus Rentals
Skip the hassle of organizing a long-distance group trip with a long-distance bus rental in Ames. Whether you're planning a family reunion across the country or a college campus tour, a long-distance bus rental ensures your group stays together and on schedule. Enjoy amenities like reclining seats, WiFi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms to keep everyone comfortable during extended travel. From road trips to charter bus rentals in Des Moines to cross-state journeys, a long-distance bus rental in Ames is your go-to solution for safe and efficient group transportation.

Ames Private Event Transportation
When you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime event, the last thing you want to worry about is how guests will get there. Whether you're hosting a family reunion at Ada Hayden Heritage Park (5205 Grand Ave) or a birthday bash at Perfect Games, a private event shuttle ensures the celebration stays on schedule. Skip the hassle of coordinating carpools and parking passes when you reserve a private charter bus in Ames tailored to your itinerary.
Our reservation experts are available 24/7 to help you find the perfect ride, whether it's a minibus for a small gathering or a full-size motorcoach for a large-scale event. You'll enjoy amenities like reclining seats, WiFi, and onboard restrooms to keep everyone comfortable from start to finish. With a driver handling all the logistics, your group can focus on making memories instead of watching the clock. It's the smartest way to keep your next celebration running exactly as planned.

Ames Religious Group Transportation
Faith-based groups in Ames can count on Ames Charter Bus for safe, consistent church transportation services. Whether your congregation is traveling to a retreat at the scenic Lutheran Lakeside Camp (2500 370th St, Spirit Lake, IA 51360) or attending a regional conference at the Iowa Events Center, we provide seamless transportation for groups of all sizes. You can choose from sprinter vans and minibus options for small bible study groups to full-size charter buses for large congregations, ensuring everyone arrives together and on time. Instead of worrying about carpools or coordinating multiple vehicles, your group can focus on fellowship and worship while a professional handles the logistics. Make your next mission trip, youth retreat, or Sunday service travel simple with Ames Charter Bus!

Ames Sporting Event Transportation
Fans, athletes, and coaches all rely on Ames Charter Bus for game-day transportation that keeps everyone together. Instead of fighting traffic and hunting for parking near Jack Trice Stadium-where the south lots can take over an hour to clear post-game-your driver will handle all the logistics while you focus on cheering for the Cyclones. We've helped hundreds of local high schools, club teams, and recreation leagues book Iowa charter buses to tournaments at the Iowa State Center, practices at Ames Soccer Complex (1220 15th St, Ames, IA 50010), and away games across Story County.
Full-size motorcoaches include undercarriage storage perfect for bulky gear, while minibuses offer a convenient ride for smaller squads and sprinter vans are great for quick trips or small groups. Whether you're heading to Hilton Coliseum (1705 Center Dr, Ames, IA 50011) or catching a basketball doubleheader at Lincoln High, your driver will drop your group off right at the entrance so no one misses tip-off.

Ames Wedding Transportation
If you're planning a wedding at the Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011), a charter bus rental in Ames is your best bet for seamless transportation. This 17-acre site prohibits personal vehicles near the Conservatory Complex, so a private shuttle is essential for moving your guests and avoiding rideshare surge pricing. Your driver will handle the drop-off loop at the Main Gate, ensuring your guests step right into the tropical conservatory without a parking hassle. Hosting your reception at the Iowa State Alumni Center? We'll coordinate efficient loops on Beach Avenue for smooth guest arrivals.
Our fleet includes everything from sprinter vans to full-size motorcoaches, so you can easily match your headcount. Let your guests enjoy the ride with plush seating, climate control, and a driver who keeps everyone on schedule. Call 563-526-8370 today to get started! We've helped couples across Story County simplify their big day.

Ames Winery and Brewery Transportation
The Ames area has a lively craft beverage scene, and a local bus rental makes it easy to enjoy every sip responsibly. Instead of worrying about designated drivers, your group can relax while we handle the logistics for a winery or brewery tour. Visit local favorites like Alluvial Brewing Company (3715 W 190th St, Ames, IA 50014) or Prairie Moon Winery-where navigating the tight gravel lot is a breeze in a sprinter van-or plan a custom route to hit multiple stops in one day. With a private shuttle, you'll have a built-in DD, comfortable seating, and storage space for all your purchases. It's the best way to experience Ames's craft culture without any transportation hassles!
How to Rent a Charter Bus in Ames
Submit Your Request
Use the Ames Charter Bus online quote tool to share your trip details, including the date, passenger count, and pickup/drop-off locations. You can receive a personalized quote in under 30 seconds.
Review The Options
Compare real-time pricing and vehicle photos from our fleet. You can browse various makes, models, and amenity packages to find the perfect fit for your group.
Lock In Your Bus
Secure your vehicle by making a payment directly online. Now you can relax!
Providing Bus Rentals in Ames & All Nearby Cities
Ames Charter Bus provides charter bus rentals throughout Iowa, so you can reserve a bus for school trips to the Science Center of Iowa (401 W Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50309) or family reunions at Ledges State Park. Our 24/7 reservation team is here to coordinate convenient pickups near Iowa State University, long-distance moves to Cedar Rapids, or charter bus rentals in Sioux City. Plus, because we operate everywhere, you can easily book a Nebraska charter bus for trips to Omaha or a Minnesota charter bus for adventures in Minneapolis. Whether you need a minibus for a campus event or a full-size charter bus for a multi-day tour, we'll make sure your group travels comfortably and on your schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a bus in Ames, Iowa?
+The cost of a charter bus rental in Ames, Iowa, depends on your mileage, the type of vehicle you choose, and when you book. In general, a trip around the University District will cost between $1,300 and $3,800 per day, with sprinter vans and minibuses at the lower end and full-size motorcoaches at the higher end. If you need a long-distance bus rental for a road game in Lincoln or Minneapolis, we'll quote you a simple per-mile rate that covers your driver, fuel, and vehicle. All Ames Charter Bus pricing is transparent and customized for your group-no hidden fees, no surprises.
To get an exact quote for your Ames charter bus rental, call our team anytime at 563-526-8370. We'll help you build a custom itinerary and pricing plan that fits your group and your budget.
What amenities are available on each of our bus types in Ames, Iowa?
+Our most-requested amenities include WiFi so students or employees can stay connected on the road, reclining seats with individual footrests for long-distance trips, climate-control to handle Iowa's hot summers and frigid winters, overhead storage for backpacks, and ADA-accessible features like ramps and dedicated wheelchair space-all included on full-size charter buses. If you're looking for a sprinter van or minibus rental in Ames, these are great options for keeping within your budget while still getting essentials like power outlets, overhead monitors, and leather-trimmed seats. No matter which vehicle you choose, we'll make sure you get a bus that keeps your group comfortable and on schedule from Lincoln Way to Jack Trice Stadium.
What types of vehicles do you offer in Ames, Iowa?
+Ames Charter Bus offers a wide range of vehicles to fit any group size or budget. You can choose from minibus options holding 15-35 passengers, full-size motorcoaches with seats for 40-56 passengers, sprinter vans for 6-15 passengers, party buses for 10-50 passengers, and sprinter vans for 8-14 passengers. Every vehicle comes with a driver, comfortable seating, and climate control to keep your trip running smoothly. We'll help you find the perfect vehicle for your group, whether you're moving students across the Iowa State campus, hosting a family reunion at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, or planning a late-night celebration downtown.
What types of events & destinations do you frequently serve in Ames, Iowa?
+We handle a lot of Iowa State University campus tours, school field trips to the Reiman Gardens, and corporate events downtown. We also provide wedding transportation for large ceremonies, ensuring guests move easily between venues. your drivers are familiar with the heavy game day traffic around Jack Trice Stadium and the ISU campus, so your group avoids the gridlock.
How far in advance should I book my Ames, Iowa bus rental?
+As a general rule of thumb, it's best to book your Ames charter bus at least 3 to 6 months in advance. The earlier the better! This is especially important if your group needs transportation during the ISU academic calendar peak season (August through May), spring (April/May) and fall (September/October) weekends that are heavy with campus events, or the annual Iowa State University commencement ceremonies at Hilton Coliseum (1705 Center Dr, Ames, IA 50011). Last-minute bookings are possible, but planning ahead gives you access to the best pricing and vehicle selection before the demand for charter bus rentals in Ames, Iowa skyrockets.
Our fleet includes options like a 15-35 passenger minibus, a 40-56 passenger charter bus, and even a 6-15 passenger sprinter van-perfect for any size group heading to the Jack Trice Stadium Lot C1 (1732 S 4th St, Ames, IA 50011) or navigating the CyRide system. Call our 24/7 reservation team anytime at 563-526-8370 to get an instant quote for your next Ames charter bus rental.
Popular Ames Charter Bus Destinations
Ames Charter Bus provides reliable transportation for any destination in Ames and across Story County. We regularly coordinate campus shuttles around Iowa State University, including stops near the Memorial Union (2229 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014) and residence halls like Friley Hall. For families and school groups, we handle trips to Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011), ensuring students stay together while exploring the conservatories.
During the winter, our charter bus rentals keep you warm on the way to ISU basketball games at Hilton Coliseum or Greek Week events. We also manage corporate travel to Mary Greeley Medical Center (1111 Duff Ave, Ames, IA 50010) and plan safe routes for field trips to the Octagon Center for the Arts. Whether it's a sprinting van for a small campus tour or a full-size motorcoach for a Cyclones fan group, we'll get you there comfortably.

Jack Trice Stadium
Game day traffic in Ames is no joke, but neither are we! When the Cyclones kick off, Jack Trice Stadium becomes the third-largest city in Iowa. Our drivers know exactly how to bypass the gridlock on University Boulevard and South 16th Street. We'll drop your group near Gate 1 or the Southeast Plaza so you avoid the long walk from the remote lots. Your charter bus will park in the designated grass lots south of the stadium with a pre-purchased permit. Instead of fighting bumper-to-bumper traffic, your group enjoys a climate-controlled ride, reclining seats, and a smooth tailgate experience from start to finish.
1732 Jack Trice Way, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-3662

Hilton Coliseum
Whether you're heading to Hilton Coliseum for an ISU basketball doubleheader or a state wrestling tournament, we make your trip simple. The venue sits inside the busy Iowa State Center complex, which means game-day traffic jams at Lincoln Way and University Boulevard are common. your drivers coordinate your arrival perfectly, dropping your group right at the north entrance near the elevated walkway. After unloading, your bus parks in the oversized lots south of the arena-no circling or confusion. When the final buzzer sounds, your driver is waiting to whisk your fans or athletes home without a single rideshare surge.
1705 Center Drive, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-1816

Stephens Auditorium
Large groups attending a Broadway tour or symphony performance at Stephens Auditorium need reliable transportation that runs on their schedule. We coordinate precise drop-offs directly at the Center Drive cutout so your passengers step straight onto the plaza. Your charter bus parks in the free oversized lots east of the venue, eliminating any post-show parking stress. With amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and ADA-accessible lifts available by request, your group stays comfortable before and after the curtain call. You focus on the standing ovation-we handle the drive.
1900 Center Drive, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-3347

Scheman Building
Conference organizers and attendees rely on us for seamless transportation to the Scheman Building. Whether you're moving corporate guests between Des Moines hotels or shuttling students to a campus seminar, we keep your schedule tight. Buses unload at the main circle drive and remain parked in the adjacent Iowa State Center lots for the duration of your event. Each charter bus features plush seating, PA systems, and onboard restrooms-perfect for multi-day conventions or back-to-back breakout sessions.
1805 Center Drive, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-3347

Ames City Auditorium
Downtown navigation is simple when you leave it to the experts. We coordinate passenger drop-offs right on Sixth Street, steps from the main entrance. Your driver parks in the nearby city lots while your audience enjoys the show. Because the one-way grid downtown can be tricky for large vehicles, we pre-plan every turn to ensure a smooth arrival and departure. This is why local schools, dance companies, and community groups trust us for their recurring transportation needs.
520 Sixth Street, Ames, IA 50010
(515) 239-5350

Special Olympics Iowa Summer Games
Moving thousands of athletes, coaches, and volunteers between multiple venues requires serious logistical expertise. We provide dedicated shuttles that run on precise circuits between Jack Trice Stadium, Hilton Coliseum, and the Lied Recreation Center. Buses use the designated drop-off points at South 4th Street and Beach Avenue, then stage in approved lots to keep traffic flowing. Every vehicle arrives sanitized, on time, and equipped with climate control and ample storage for gear. From opening ceremonies to the final medal round, we keep the entire event running safely and smoothly.
ISU Campus, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 986-5520