Ames offers a pedestrian-friendly environment, particularly in areas near Iowa State University and the downtown district. The city features a network of sidewalks and shared-use paths that make walking a convenient option for accessing many destinations. Compact neighborhoods and well-maintained infrastructure support ease of movement on foot. However, weather conditions, especially during colder months, may impact comfort and safety for pedestrians. While walking is practical for shorter distances, some areas of the city may require alternative transportation due to greater spacing between destinations.

El ciclismo en Ames cuenta con una amplia infraestructura para bicicletas, lo que lo convierte en una forma práctica de trasladarse, especialmente en áreas como el campus de la Universidad Estatal de Iowa, que cuenta con carriles y rutas para bicicletas. La ciudad incluye rutas e instalaciones aptas para bicicletas, como casilleros para bicicletas en la instalación intermodal de Ames. Si bien andar en bicicleta es conveniente para distancias más cortas, la facilidad de acceso a los destinos puede variar según el área. Las condiciones climáticas y los cambios estacionales también pueden afectar la comodidad y la seguridad al andar en bicicleta, por lo que es importante planificar con anticipación.

The public transit system in Ames is primarily served by a bus network that connects key areas, including Iowa State University and other parts of the city. The routes are designed to make it convenient to reach many destinations, especially within the central parts of Ames. The infrastructure supports regular and accessible bus services, which can be a practical option for getting around. However, factors such as distance to stops and seasonal weather conditions may influence the ease of using public transit.