Charter Bus Rentals in Ames
Ames Charter Bus is your #1 source for a charter bus rental in Ames, Iowa, offering a huge fleet of buses for any event or group size. From sprinter vans and minibuses to full-size motorcoaches, we have the perfect vehicle for your next trip. Whether you need a campus shuttle for Iowa State University, a wedding shuttle service, or a long-distance charter bus rental, our team is available 24/7/365 to help you get exactly what you need. You can get pricing in seconds using our online quote tool or by calling us. We serve Ames, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Davenport, Sioux City, and anywhere in the state. Trust Ames Charter Bus for your next charter bus rental in Ames-we've helped thousands of groups and will make your trip easy.
A few of the companies in Ames that have trusted us with their group transportation.
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About Ames Charter Bus
Ames Charter Bus is your trusted charter bus company serving Ames, Iowa, and the entire Midwest region. Since 2011, we've helped thousands of groups move comfortably through Story County, whether it's campus shuttles at Iowa State University or corporate travel along the U.S. Highway 30 corridor. Our fleet includes everything from sprinter vans to full-size motorcoaches, so you can easily match your headcount without breaking your budget. When you book with us, you'll get a modern ride, 24/7 customer support, and a charter bus quote built for your itinerary-all backed by one of Iowa's highest-rated transportation teams.
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
On every charter bus rental in Ames, you'll get great features like WiFi to keep students connected on the drive between Iowa State and the Ames High School, a PA system so the coach can give pre-game speeches on Ames Community School District trips to the University of Northern Iowa, power outlets to charge up for the walk through at the Jack Trice Stadium, and overhead storage for quick access to snacks and sunglasses. Long-distance Ames charter bus rentals like Des Moines charter buses for the ISU football team or regional rivalries at the University of Northern Iowa keep everyone comfortable with reclining seats and climate controls so your group can beat the heat (or cold!) while you ride. We also offer ADA-compliant charter bus rentals with features like widened aisles, wheelchair ramps or lifts, and space to secure mobility devices at no added cost to you.
And that's just the beginning! When you book with Ames Charter Bus, you can mix and match charter bus features to get exactly what you need. From sprinter vans with WiFi for campus tours at Iowa State to full-size motorcoaches equipped with onboard restrooms for road trips to the University of Northern Iowa, we'll make sure your group has the best amenities for their next adventure.
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? Charter bus prices in Ames typically range from $150 to over $400 per hour, or $1,200-$3,000+ per day depending on bus size (18-56+ passengers), demand, and trip duration. Full-size coaches (50-56 seats) typically cost $170-$500+ per hour, while 18-35 passenger minibuses range from $120-$450+ per hour. You'll find the best rates by booking your bus at least 30 days in advance, especially if your trip falls outside the busy spring and summer event season.
For a fast, honest quote on your Ames bus rental, call our team anytime at 319-403-0430. Or, use our online quote tool for live pricing and availability in seconds.
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 been the leading provider of group transportation in Iowa for over a decade, helping thousands of travelers move comfortably through Ames, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and beyond. When you book with us, you'll have access to a wide variety of vehicles, including minibus rentals, full-size motorcoaches, party buses, and sprinter vans, ensuring there's a perfect ride for any group size or occasion. Our 24/7 reservation team is always available to answer your questions, provide an instant quote, and handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Whether you're navigating game day traffic at Iowa State University or planning a shuttle service for your next conference, you can trust us to get you there safely and on time.
Ames Group Transportation Services We Offer
Our large fleet of buses ensures your group travels comfortably for any occasion. From campus tours at Iowa State University to family reunions at Ada Hayden Heritage Park, we have a bus for you. Move your high school sports team between practices and away games, shuttle wedding guests between venues, or coordinate corporate travel for your employees with an Ames charter bus. You can even rent a sprinter van for small groups or a full-size charter bus for large events-whatever you need, we've got you covered. Best of all, each vehicle comes with a driver and the ability to add special features like WiFi and televisions.

Ames Airport Transportation
While Ames doesn't have its own major airport, we can still provide your group with a reliable airport shuttle. Whether your travelers are flying into Des Moines International Airport or out of Eppley Airfield, we'll make sure everyone arrives on time for their flight and without a single rideshare mishap. Instead of splitting up and paying a premium for rideshares, or having to navigate through heavy traffic on I-235 downtown in the morning, your group can sit back and relax in a charter bus. Best of all, we offer charter bus rentals in Ames, so whether you're coordinating a hotel shuttle, need a ride to the airport, or planning a private event, we can help you.

Ames Concert Transportation
When Iowa State University's Cyclone Stadium hosts a major concert, thousands of fans pack the stands-but that energy can cause gridlock on gameday, too. According to local news outlet KCCI, concert and game days see heavy congestion on I-35 and U.S. Highway 30, with traffic backed up for miles. A charter bus rental in Ames keeps your group together in a cool, comfortable ride with seamless parking built right into your trip plan. Your group can pre-game the energy on the way there, enjoy every second of the show, and ride home together without a single rideshare surge. We handle the highway gridlock, so your crew stays focused on the fun.

Ames Corporate Shuttle Services
For large events at the Iowa State Center, we provide efficient employee shuttles that keep your team on schedule. You can coordinate pickups from the Ames Intermodal Facility (Ames IFC) at 129 Hayward Ave-a central hub near Campus Town and the Greek community-to move attendees directly to the venue entrances at Lincoln Way and Beach Avenue. During the annual CYTown surge, and the heavy traffic it brings to the Lincoln Way and Duff Avenue intersection, our experienced charter bus drivers help your group avoid the gridlock. Inside your bus, your team can prepare for the day with WiFi and power outlets while the driver handles the ride.
We've helped hundreds of companies manage daily employee commutes between Downtown Ames and the ISU Research Park, ensuring staff arrive refreshed and on time. From executive sprinter vans to full-size motorcoaches, you'll get a modern vehicle that keeps your people moving smoothly through Ames' busiest corridors.

Ames Employee Shuttle Services
Companies in Ames can book employee transportation services for everything from daily office commutes to rides for staff meetings. Local employees who live in nearby towns like Boone, IA or Newton, IA can skip the stressful 40-minute commute and instead enjoy a comfortable ride to work complete with WiFi and power outlets to keep them charged up for the day. Long-distance commuters can also benefit from our Ames charter bus rentals, avoiding the stop-and-go traffic on US-30 from Cedar Rapids-which is about a two-hour drive east-or the I-35 interchange.
Whether your team is heading to the Ames City Hall (515 Clark Ave, Ames, IA 50010) for a quarterly meeting or you're sending off-season construction crews to worksites in Des Moines, we'll make sure your employee transportation shuttle stays on schedule. Let your crew relax and enjoy a smooth ride while we handle the logistics!

Ames Field Trip Transportation
For educators and students, Ames Charter Bus is the trusted partner for field trip transportation in Ames. Instead of cramming into outdated yellow school buses, students and teachers can enjoy modern amenities like WiFi to stream educational content, a PA system to clearly communicate with chaperones, and reclining seats with tray tables for comfort on longer trips. Whether you're taking a science class to the Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011) or planning a history trip to the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, we'll make sure your group rides comfortably. You can even rent a charter bus in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and other nearby cities for field trips across the region. With a private charter bus, your driver will handle all the parking and traffic logistics, allowing teachers and chaperones to focus on giving students a memorable and engaging experience.

Ames Government & Military Transportation
For government and military groups traveling to or from Ames, a private charter bus rental makes secure, efficient transportation easy. Your group can enjoy a comfortable ride while shuttling between the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines and federal offices in Ames, like the USDA National Centers (1920 Dayton Ave, Ames, IA 50010).
Our company is familiar with the restricted-access lots and designated drop-off zones at high-security facilities around Ames, including the ISU Research Park (1805 Collaboration Pl, Ames, IA 50010). Every Ames charter bus in our fleet can be equipped with WiFi, power outlets, and reclining seats to keep passengers comfortable and productive on long-distance trips across Iowa.

Ames Long-Distance Bus Rentals
Skip the hassle of organizing a long-distance trip when you book a long-distance charter bus rental with Ames Charter Bus. Whether you're planning a family reunion out to Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011) or a campus tour of Iowa State University for prospective students, we make long-distance travel easy. Our buses are equipped with comfortable seating, climate control, and onboard restrooms-perfect for road trips across the Midwest. From school field trips to the Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo (3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107) to corporate retreats in Des Moines, your group will ride in comfort and style every mile.

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, Ames, IA 50010) or a birthday bash at Perfect Games, a private event shuttle ensures the celebration stays on schedule from the very first pickup. Your group can enjoy features like reclining seats, WiFi, and TV monitors while we handle the navigation and parking.
Trying to coordinate a multi-stop itinerary? No problem! An Ames charter bus allows you to customize your trip exactly how you want it. Start by picking up relatives from the Des Moines International Airport, then head to local hotels before capping off the night at one of Ames' best restaurants. With a private bus rental in Ames, there's no need to designate a driver-everyone can enjoy the party to the fullest.

Ames Religious Group Transportation
Faith-based groups in Ames can rely on Ames Charter Bus for safe, consistent church transportation services. Whether your congregation is traveling to a retreat at the scenic Lutheran Lakeside Camp in Spirit Lake or attending a conference at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, we ensure your group stays together. You can coordinate youth group outings, choir performances, and mission trips without worrying about carpools or missed turns. Your driver will handle all the logistics while your group enjoys a comfortable ride with features like reclining seats, WiFi, and overhead storage. It's the best way to keep your ministry focused on fellowship instead of traffic.

Ames Sporting Event Transportation
Fans, athletes, and coaches all rely on Ames Charter Bus for game-day transportation that keeps everyone on schedule. Instead of fighting traffic near Jack Trice Stadium-one of the largest college football stadiums in the country-your driver can bypass the congestion by using South 16th Street and Lot B1. This allows your group to skip the hour-long post-game gridlock and focus on cheering the Cyclones. We also provide Des Moines charter bus services for away games or tournaments at the Wells Fargo Arena (233 Center St, Des Moines, IA 50309). Our buses have plenty of undercarriage storage for tailgating gear, coolers, and tents, so you don't have to cram equipment into personal vehicles.
Coaches love the reclining seats and PA systems for reviewing game footage en route, while fans appreciate the onboard restrooms and WiFi for live updates. Whether it's a youth league championship or a Big 12 matchup, we'll make sure your trip runs like clockwork.

Ames Wedding Transportation
Say "I do" to stress-free wedding transportation when you book a charter bus rental in Ames. Whether you're hosting a reception at the Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011) or planning a bachelor/bachelorette party in Downtown Des Moines, we ensure guests travel in style. Skip the hassle of coordinating rides between the ceremony and reception; your driver will keep everyone on schedule, allowing your family and friends to focus on celebrating your big day.
With amenities like reclining seats, WiFi, and flat-screen TVs, even the longest rides-like a shuttle from Des Moines Airport-feel comfortable. From sprinter vans for small groups to full-size motorcoaches, finding the perfect wedding shuttle in Ames has never been easier!

Ames Winery and Brewery Transportation
The Ames area has some great local breweries and wineries, and a private bus rental is the best way to experience them! Whether you're planning a trip to Alluvial Brewing Company (3715 W 190th St, Ames, IA 50014) or Prairie Moon Winery, we'll make sure your group has a safe ride home. You can even head out of town for a long-distance bus trip to nearby destinations like Des Moines or Cedar Rapids. With a private bus rental, you can customize your itinerary and make the most of your day. Store your growlers, cans, and bottles in the overhead compartments while you sit back and enjoy the ride!
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 plan a group trip to the Blank Park Zoo (7401 SW 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50315) or keep your students together for a campus tour of the University of Northern Iowa. Our 24/7 reservation team is here to coordinate your Iowa itinerary so you don't have to worry about logistics. We provide custom bus rentals in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Sioux City, Waterloo, and other nearby cities, so your group can sit back and enjoy the ride. Whether you need a minibus for a campus shuttle or a full-size motorcoach for your next ISU football game, we'll make sure you have the perfect bus rental in Ames.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a bus in Ames, Iowa?
+The cost of a charter bus rental in Ames depends on a few key factors like your travel dates, group size, and the number of stops on your itinerary. Since Ames is a busy college town, rates can be higher during major events like Iowa State University family weekends, Homecoming, and the Cy-Hawk football game, but we work hard to get you the best price. In general, a full-size charter bus in Ames costs $1,300-$2,800 per day, while a minibus costs $1,100-$2,200 per day. These prices are based on real trips across Iowa, including Des Moines business conventions at the Iowa Events Center, ISU student organization travel, and wedding shuttles for venues like Reiman Gardens.
For the most accurate pricing, call our team anytime at 319-403-0430. One easy call gets you live pricing and availability for your exact itinerary, whether you're navigating Gameday traffic on Lincoln Way or planning a long-distance trip.
What amenities are available on each of our bus types in Ames, Iowa?
+If you're coming to Ames, Iowa, you can book a charter bus that fits your exact needs and budget. Our full-size motorcoaches are perfect for long-distance trips with features like reclining seats, climate controls, WiFi, power outlets, onboard restrooms, and undercarriage luggage bays-ideal for ISU campus tours, Cyclones football travel groups, or company retreats at Reiman Gardens. Minibuses keep the ride simple with cushioned seats, strong WiFi, overhead monitors, and ADA-accessible options for quick trips between Greek houses, high school prom events at the Gateway Hotel, or corporate shuttles through Downtown Ames.
Sprinter vans offer easy boarding, overhead lighting, and USB ports-great for airport transfers to Des Moines International Airport or small wedding shuttles at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. No matter your group size, you'll get a modern vehicle loaded with the right features to keep everyone moving comfortably through Story County. From party buses to sprinter vans, you'll find the perfect ride when you call our 24/7 reservation experts at 319-403-0430.
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 rentals for 15-35 passengers, full-size motorcoaches that seat 40-56 riders, sprinter vans for 6-15 passengers, party buses that accommodate 10-50 guests, and sprinter van rentals with room for 8-14 passengers. Our fleet includes modern vehicles with comfortable seating, climate control, and plenty of storage space for your trip. Whether you need a simple shuttle or a large-scale charter bus rental in Ames, we'll help you find the perfect vehicle for your group.
What types of events & destinations do you frequently serve in Ames, Iowa?
+The Ames Charter Bus team is equipped to handle any kind of group transportation in Ames, from Iowa State University campus tours to school field trips at Reiman Gardens. We frequently provide charter bus rentals for Cyclones game days at Jack Trice Stadium, ensuring groups don't have to walk the 2.5 miles from downtown to the stadium. Our services also cover corporate events at the ISU Alumni Center, bachelorette parties exploring Main Street, and family reunions at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. Whether it's a campus shuttle for ISU students or a long-distance charter bus to Des Moines, we make custom transportation plans for every group.
How far in advance should I book my Ames, Iowa bus rental?
+As a general rule of thumb, it's best to book your charter bus at least 3 to 6 months in advance. This ensures you get exactly what you need at the best price before buses fill up or rates rise. For trips during the ISU football season, Ames-area weddings, or the May ISU commencement weekend, demand across Iowa goes way up and inventory moves fast-so securing your motorcoach early is critical. While we do our best to accommodate last-minute transportation, locking in your reservation early guarantees you get the perfect vehicle for your group and route. Call our 24/7 reservation team at 319-403-0430 today to secure your ideal Ames charter bus rental before they're gone!
Popular Ames Charter Bus Destinations
Our team is here to help you book a charter bus for any occasion! From school field trips to the Reiman Gardens (1407 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011) to catching the latest Cyclones game during your Iowa State University campus tour, we've got the right bus for you. Planning a family reunion at Ada Hayden Heritage Park? Organizing a corporate event near Des Moines? It's all easy when you call our team!
When you dial 319-403-0430, you'll connect with our 24/7 reservation experts who will answer your questions, help you choose the perfect bus, and give you an instant quote. One trip with Ames Charter Bus, and you'll see why groups across Iowa trust us for reliable, comfortable, and affordable transportation.

Jack Trice Stadium
Game day traffic in Ames is no joke, but your group doesn't have to worry about it when you book with Ames Charter Bus! We know exactly how to navigate the US-30 and I-35 bottlenecks to get your Cyclones fans straight to the S. 4th Street and Beach Avenue drop-off zone-right near Gate 3. Your driver will handle the post-game gridlock, staging your bus in the Lot D oversized section north of the stadium while you tailgate or celebrate the win. We coordinate arrivals around the heavy pre-game surge so your group stays together from start to finish.
1800 S 4th St, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-1816

James H. Hilton Coliseum
Whether you're organizing a student trip to a Big 12 basketball double-header or a large-scale tournament, we make navigating the ISU campus simple. Your driver will pull directly into the South Entrance loop for an efficient unload, then park the bus in Lot C1 where oversized vehicles are permitted during major events. Because Center Drive often backs up due to rideshare congestion at the circle drives, having a private charter ensures your group arrives on time without splitting up between multiple cars.
1705 Center Dr, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-1816

Stephens Auditorium
For school groups, corporate outings, or senior tours attending a show at Stephens Auditorium, nothing beats arriving together in a climate-controlled motorcoach. Your driver will drop everyone off right at the main entrance canopy so no one has to walk far or navigate the busy Center Drive crosswalks. After unloading, the bus can remain parked in Lot B2 for the duration of the performance. When the curtain falls, your driver will be waiting curbside to take your group home safely.
1900 Center Dr, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-3347

Reiman Gardens
Reiman Gardens welcomes thousands of visitors each year, making parking a challenge for large groups-especially during the annual butterfly exhibit or holiday light shows. With a dedicated Ames charter bus rental, your driver will drop passengers off steps from the main entrance before moving to the north lot. This means your group can explore the gardens at their own pace without worrying about metered parking, game-day restrictions, or coordinating multiple arrival times.
1207 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-2710

Iowa State University Memorial Union
Coordinating transportation for a campus conference or Greek Life event is easy when you rely on our 24/7 reservation team. Your driver will unload passengers at the Lincoln Way circle drive, then stage the vehicle at the Iowa State Center lots nearby. This eliminates the stress of navigating downtown Ames road closures or fighting for limited garage spaces, ensuring your attendees arrive on time even during heavy pedestrian traffic between classes.
2229 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-5433

Downtown Ames Fourth of July Parade
Trying to drive into downtown Ames on parade day is nearly impossible, but a private charter makes it simple. Your driver will drop your group off near the Clark Avenue perimeter so you can claim a great viewing spot without walking blocks from distant garages. While you enjoy the festivities, your driver stages the bus at Brookside Park or another city-approved lot outside the restricted zone. When the fireworks end, your ride is waiting to shuttle everyone home safely.
304 Main St, Ames, IA 50010
(515) 232-4032