Charter Bus Rentals Ames, Iowa

The cost of a charter bus rental in Ames typically ranges from $1,100 to $4,000 or more, depending on the size of the vehicle, duration of the trip, mileage, and time of year. You’ll pay either by the hour, day, or mile, depending on your itinerary. Local trips (like shuttles between Iowa State University and downtown) are often billed hourly, while longer trips (such as Ames to Des Moines or Cedar Rapids) are priced by the mile or day. Rates are highest during spring and fall—peak seasons for ISU athletics, graduations, and school travel. Minibuses (15–35 seats) are the most budget-friendly, while full-size 56-passenger motorcoaches cost the most. Get an exact quote fast by calling our team at 515-425-4750 with your trip details.

Here are a few sample quotes to give you an idea of what to expect when you rent a charter bus in Ames. A two-day minibus rental (28 passengers) for a corporate event shuttle between Iowa State University and downtown Ames might run $2,400–$2,800. A full-size charter bus (56 passengers) for a one-day round trip to Des Moines for a Cyclones fan outing could cost $2,000–$2,400. Multi-day school trips, such as a three-day band tour to Chicago, can run $7,500–$8,500 or more. Local wedding shuttles between venues in Ames typically range from $1,800–$3,200 depending on the number of hours and vehicles needed. For the most accurate pricing, call our team at 515-425-4750 with your exact itinerary.

Several factors influence the cost of a charter bus rental in Ames. The largest factors are the type and size of bus (minibuses cost less than full-size motorcoaches), the distance and duration of the trip (longer trips and multi-day rentals cost more), and the time of year (rates increase during peak seasons such as spring and fall). Additional expenses may include tolls, parking fees, and lodging for the driver on overnight trips. Special amenities like onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, or custom wraps can also impact the final price. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to provide your full itinerary, including pickup and drop-off locations, schedule, and any special requests.

Charter Bus Rental Ames is a top charter bus company in Ames because we offer 24/7 customer support, flexible reservation policies, transparent pricing, and the largest fleet of modern vehicles in the region. We’ve helped everyone from Iowa State University athletic teams to Fortune 500 companies and K-12 schools plan seamless transportation, and we can do the same for you. Our team is available around the clock to answer questions, provide quotes, and assist with last-minute changes or emergencies. We understand that every group is unique, and we’ll work closely with you to customize the perfect travel plan. From single-day shuttles to complex multi-day itineraries, we make it easy to rent a bus in Ames and beyond.

We serve all kinds of groups across Ames and Story County, including sports teams, schools, businesses, wedding parties, event organizers, faith communities, and senior living centers. We regularly provide game-day transportation for Iowa State Cyclones fans and visiting NCAA teams, campus shuttles for ISU departments, field trip and athletic travel for Ames Community School District and neighboring districts like Gilbert and Ballard, corporate transfers for local employers in research parks or along I-35, and wedding or event shuttles to venues around downtown, Campustown, and Reiman Gardens. We also assist with hospital staff shuttles to Mary Greeley Medical Center, construction site transportation, and emergency evacuation services.

Charter Bus Rental Ames offers a full range of buses in Ames, including 18-, 20-, 25-, 28-, 30-, and 35-passenger minibuses; 40-, 47-, 50-, and 56-passenger full-size motorcoaches; and several specialty vehicles. We can also provide ADA-accessible buses with wheelchair lifts. Available models include Van Hool CX45, Prevost H3-45, MCI J4500/D4505/E4500, Setra S417, Grech Motors GM33/GM36/GM40, Turtle Top VT3/VT4, and Champion Challenger, among others. If you need something specific—a certain color, a bus with extra luggage space, or a vehicle with premium amenities—just ask! We can easily send a bus from nearby cities like Des Moines or Ankeny if you need something specific.

Most modern charter buses in Ames come standard with reclining seats, individual reading lights, climate control, overhead parcel racks, luggage bays, and a PA system. Larger buses (40+ seats) typically include free onboard Wi-Fi, 110V power outlets or USB ports at every row, flat-screen video monitors, DVD/Blu-ray players, and a restroom with toilet and hand sanitizer. Premium coaches may offer leather upholstery, forward-facing or conference-style seating, tray tables, Bluetooth audio, and optional amenities like streaming video, satellite TV, or custom branding. Minibuses (15–35 seats) include many of the same features—Wi-Fi, power outlets, A/V system—but may not have a restroom. All vehicles are cleaned and sanitized before each trip.

Yes, most full-size charter buses (40–56 passengers) have a restroom located at the rear of the coach. The restroom includes a toilet, hand sanitizer dispenser, and small sink or vanity area. It’s designed for emergency use and short visits rather than extended stays. Minibuses (15–35 passengers) typically do not have a restroom due to space constraints. If you’re traveling with children or planning a long trip, ask about restroom availability when booking. Your driver can also schedule regular comfort stops at rest areas, gas stations, or travel plazas along the route.

Yes, most newer charter buses are equipped with 110V power outlets and/or USB charging ports. On full-size motorcoaches, you’ll typically find one outlet per pair of seats located between the seatbacks or along the sidewall. Some buses offer upgraded configurations with one outlet per seat or integrated USB-A/USB-C ports. Minibuses may have fewer outlets—one per row or shared between seats—but can still accommodate phones, tablets, and small electronics. If your group needs to power laptops or other devices, ask about outlet availability when requesting a quote. We can provide a bus with ample power options to keep everyone connected.

Yes, most of our charter buses and minibuses offer onboard Wi-Fi as a standard amenity. The Wi-Fi connection is suitable for web browsing, email, social media, and streaming music or standard-definition video. Larger groups and full-size motorcoaches typically have more robust Wi-Fi systems, while minibuses may have basic connectivity. If reliable internet access is important for your trip, please mention this when booking, and we’ll ensure your bus is equipped with the best available Wi-Fi package.

Yes, all our full-size charter buses have ample luggage space, including large undercarriage bays for suitcases and oversized items, as well as overhead parcel racks inside the cabin for smaller bags and personal belongings. A standard 56-passenger coach can accommodate up to 56 pieces of luggage plus carry-on items. Minibuses have limited luggage space—usually just overhead racks and a small rear cargo area—but can still handle backpacks, duffel bags, and compact suitcases. If your group has extra luggage, sports equipment, or bulky items, let us know when booking. We’ll recommend a vehicle with sufficient storage or arrange for additional cargo space.

Our fleet includes vehicles that can accommodate groups of nearly any size. Minibuses typically seat 18 to 35 passengers and are ideal for smaller groups or short-distance travel. Full-size charter buses can seat up to 56 passengers and are perfect for large groups, long-distance trips, or events requiring multiple vehicles. If you’re traveling with a very large group, we can dispatch several buses to operate together. Just provide your headcount when requesting a quote, and we’ll recommend the best vehicle options for your group size and budget.

In Ames, common charter bus loading zones include Iowa State University’s Jack Trice Stadium (Lot 85E, South 30th Street), Hilton Coliseum (East and South lots), and the Memorial Union (Lincoln Way at Union Drive). Downtown loading can occur on Fifth Street near City Hall or in the Depot District along Main Street. Larger venues such as the Iowa State Center have designated bus parking areas. For hotel pickups, most properties on South Dayton Avenue and near U.S. 30 have space for curbside loading. Always confirm with your destination about bus parking policies; some areas require advance coordination or special permits.

It’s best to book your charter bus rental as early as possible—ideally 3 to 6 months in advance—to ensure availability and get the best rates. Spring and fall are peak seasons in Ames due to Iowa State University events, so buses can sell out quickly. For trips during major events like Cyclones football games, graduation, or homecoming, consider booking 6 to 12 months ahead. Last-minute rentals are possible, but your vehicle options may be limited. If you’re planning a trip on short notice, call us anyway—we’ll do our best to get you a bus for your dates.

You can get an instant quote by calling our 24-hour reservation team at 515-425-4750 or by filling out the online quote form on our website. Just provide your trip details—date, pickup location, destination, group size, and any special requests—and we’ll send you a personalized estimate in minutes. If you have a multi-day or complex itinerary, attach your schedule or call us directly. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions, compare vehicle options, and help you choose the best bus for your budget. Once you receive your quote, you can review the pricing, ask about available amenities, and decide whether to proceed with the booking. We make it easy to get a fast, accurate quote on any type of bus rental in Ames.

Your quote includes the cost of the bus, driver’s wages, fuel, insurance, and all standard amenities (Wi-Fi, power outlets, A/V system, restroom). It does not include tolls, parking fees, or driver gratuity (typically 10–20%). For overnight trips, you’ll need to provide or reimburse the driver’s hotel. Optional add-ons—such as additional mileage, extra buses, or custom branding—will be itemized separately. There are no hidden fees; all charges are clearly outlined in advance. If you have questions about what’s included, ask your reservation specialist when booking.

Once you receive your quote, review the terms and itinerary for accuracy. To confirm the reservation, you’ll sign the contract electronically and pay a deposit (typically 30–50% of the total). The balance is due 1–2 weeks before departure. We accept major credit cards, ACH transfers, and business checks. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation with your trip details and can contact us anytime to make changes or ask questions. Your driver’s name and contact info will be provided 24–48 hours before departure. We offer flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies if your plans change.

Yes, you can rent a bus for multiple days, an overnight trip, or even an extended out-of-state excursion. Common multi-day rentals from Ames include athletic or academic trips to Minneapolis, Chicago, Kansas City, or Omaha; conference and convention travel; and multi-day tours or competitions. For overnight trips, the driver must have a minimum of eight hours off-duty for every 10 hours of driving, and federal law requires a rest break after 15 hours on duty. You’ll need to provide or reimburse the driver’s hotel room (a modest, single-occupancy room is sufficient). Multi-day rentals are billed by the day or by total mileage, whichever is greater. Our team will help you plan the itinerary, schedule rest breaks, and coordinate lodging and parking at your destination.

Yes! Charter Bus Rental Ames can easily provide long-distance and multi-day charter bus rentals from Ames to any destination in the Midwest or across the country. Whether you’re planning a student tour to Chicago, a corporate retreat in Kansas City, or a Cyclones fan trip to an away game, we’ll make sure you have comfortable, reliable transportation the entire way. Just provide your full itinerary when requesting a quote, and we’ll handle the rest.