Historic Old Town Homes for Sale

Historic Old Town in Ames is a neighborhood known for its unique character and historic homes, featuring Italianate, Colonial Revival, and Late Victorian styles built between the 1880s and 1930s. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means many buildings have regulated cosmetic changes. Homes often have large front porches and are shaded by old-growth trees, with picket-fenced backyards and detached garages. The neighborhood is affordable, with home prices generally below the city’s median. There are also nine apartment buildings and condos from the 1960s to the 1990s. Some streets face a flood risk. Residents enjoy proximity to Old Towne Park, Bandshell Park, and Brookside Park, which offer playgrounds, sports facilities, and walking trails. Downtown Main Street, just south of the neighborhood, features local dining options like Morning Bell Coffee Roasters, Whiskey River, and The Grove Cafe. The Ames Public Library and Ames City Auditorium provide cultural and educational events. The Ames Community School District is highly rated, with Ames High School boasting a new building and numerous state championships. Iowa State University is less than 2 miles away. Public transportation is accessible with bus stops on Clark and Duff Avenues, and Des Moines International Airport is about 40 miles away.