Location of Iowa State Uni – Where's it exactly?

I'm interested in applying for Iowa State University, but I'm having a little trouble pinpointing its exact geographic location. Can anyone help me out? I just want to have a better understanding of the location, potential culture, and commute impact if I choose to go here.

Iowa State University is located in Ames, Iowa, approximately 37 miles north of the state's capital, Des Moines. Ames is situated in the heartland of the United States, in the Midwest region.

One of the cool things about Ames is that it's been consistently ranked as one of the best college towns in the country. The city has a vibrant community and a healthy blend of students and non-students, so there's always plenty to do both on and off campus. There are numerous parks, retail stores, restaurants, and cultural activities in the area.

As for commute impact, Ames has a good public transportation system called CyRide, which is a collaboration between the university, the city, and the student government. It provides affordable and efficient bus transportation around campus and the city for students.

If you're looking for the presence of a larger metropolitan area nearby, Des Moines is roughly a 40-minute drive from Ames, where you can find larger cultural events, concerts, professional sport teams, and plenty of job opportunities.

Remember, the geographical location of your college can certainly play a role in your overall experience, affecting elements such as climate, available activities, and lifestyle. Evaluating these aspects as you are currently doing can be quite helpful in the decision-making process. Good luck!