Ames Elks Lodge is a association or organization in Ames, IA. Open: Mon–Fri 4:00 – 8:00 PM; Sat 12:00 – 8:00 PM; Sun Closed. Phone: (515) 232-6314. Average rating is 4.3 stars from 33 reviews. Website: http://www.elks.org/.
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks emblemAmes, IA Elks Lodge #1626
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Exterior view of Ames Elks Lodge building.
4.3 33 reviews Today 4:00 – 8:00 PM

Brotherhood, Burgers, and a Cold Beer

Ames' gathering place on Douglas Ave where good food, fair prices, and friendly faces wait every week.

Charity

Giving without expectation

Justice

Fairness for every person

Brotherly Love

Fellowship above all

Fidelity

Faithful to our word

About Us

Exterior view of Ames Elks Lodge covered in snow.
Exterior view of Ames Elks Lodge covered in snow.

On Douglas Avenue in Ames, the Elks Lodge has been doing things the straightforward way for decades: cook good food, keep prices honest, and leave the door open for anyone who wants to belong to something real. Walk in on a burger night or tenderloin night and you'll find regulars trading stories at the bar, a room that smells like a proper kitchen, and a tab that won't make you wince when it arrives.

The Ames Elks Lodge is a chapter of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, one of America's oldest fraternal organizations with roots going back to 1868. That heritage shapes how this lodge operates: community first, charity always, and a genuine welcome for members and their guests. Reviewers consistently call out the friendliness of the crowd and the quality of the kitchen, two things no amount of remodeling can fake.

The building sits on a split-level layout, and the lodge is actively working through accessibility improvements. If mobility is a concern, calling ahead is the best move so staff can help arrange the smoothest visit possible.

What We Offer

The lodge runs a rotating calendar of food nights that draw a loyal crowd week after week. Burger nights and tenderloin nights are the anchors, with special dinner events layered in throughout the month. Portions are generous, prices are genuinely reasonable, and the kitchen takes the food seriously.

Beyond the dining, the Elks host a full bar where members and guests can catch a game, though fair warning: the volume tends to run high on big sports nights. The lodge also offers event space rentals for private gatherings, making it a practical and affordable option for parties, receptions, or club meetings in the Ames area.

Membership in the BPOE opens the door to a national network of lodges, scholarship programs, veterans' support initiatives, and community service projects. Whether you're a longtime Elk or someone curious about joining, the Ames chapter is a welcoming starting point.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

What Our Guests Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear it from our members & guests

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐
4 months ago
"Not fully accessible to those who require wheelchair access. They have a stairlift for a person to sit in but no way to get a wheelchair to the levels inside the building. It's a split foyer. There is no covered area outside for those who are wheelchair bound to sit outside to socialize when renting the party room. It's an ok place to have a gathering. The bartender/manager is pretty cool. She's not to blame for the building's faults."
— Danielle Polzin
⭐⭐
3 years ago
"The people are great and the prices are very reasonable. It's way short on atmosphere and whatever sports event is going on at the time will be played at a stupidly high volume. I went to talk to friends, not watch/listen to a game, but that was impossible."
— Vanguard 42
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4 years ago
"Always a friendly face to see when we stop by. They host burger nights, tenderloin nights, and special dinner nights. Food has always been delicious. They also have space available to rent for all kinds of events. Love their Happy Hour also!"
— Jennie Van Voorhis
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6 years ago
"🍻 I have to go to the store and get some rest and feel better soon and that is Anguil we're going to be in the office tomorrow and will be there for the interview on the talent show up at the airport and then I will send you the link to the video of the talent show"
— Anguil Bola
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
8 months ago
"Welcoming experience, good venue."
— Patrick Quance

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member to visit the Ames Elks Lodge?

Many Elks Lodge events are open to members and their guests. To enjoy full access to the bar, dining nights, and facilities regularly, membership is required. Contact the lodge directly through elks.org to ask about guest policies for specific events.

When are burger nights and tenderloin nights held?

The lodge runs regular food nights including burger nights and tenderloin nights on a rotating weekly schedule, with special dinner events added throughout the month. Check with the lodge or their local calendar for the current schedule, as dates can shift seasonally.

Is the building wheelchair accessible?

The building is a split-level foyer design with a stairlift available for individuals, but it does not currently accommodate wheelchairs between levels. If accessibility is a concern, call ahead so staff can assist you and help plan the best visit possible.

Can I rent the event space for a private party or meeting?

Yes. The Ames Elks Lodge offers space rentals for private events including parties, receptions, and group meetings. Rates are considered very reasonable compared to commercial venues in the area. Reach out through elks.org or visit the lodge to discuss availability and pricing.

How do I become a member of the Ames Elks Lodge?

Membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks requires that you be a U.S. citizen who believes in God, and you must be sponsored by an existing member. Visit elks.org to learn about the application process and connect with the Ames chapter.

Is it loud inside during sports events?

Reviewers note that the volume during televised sports can run quite high. If you're visiting to have a conversation or a quieter meal, it's worth checking whether a major game is scheduled that evening and planning accordingly.

Where exactly is the Ames Elks Lodge located?

The lodge is at 522 Douglas Avenue, Ames, Iowa 50010. It's centrally located in Ames, not far from Iowa State University and easily accessible from most parts of the city.

Hours of Operation

Closed · Opens 4:00
Monday 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Tuesday 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Wednesday 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Thursday Today 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Friday 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Saturday 12:00 – 8:00 PM
Sunday Closed
66° Clear Ames
Wed 76° 59°
Thu 79° 58°
Fri 76° 63°
Sat 89° 63°
Sun 94° 76°
Mon 90° 73°
Tue 80° 70°
The Order · Since 1868

Community. Friendship. Charity.

Every Elks lodge belongs to one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders. Through the Elks National Foundation, the Order has given more than $481 million to college scholarships, veterans, and neighbors in need.

Join the Elks
A Proud Heritage

The Elks gave America
Flag Day.

Long before it was a national observance, the Order set aside June 14th to honor the flag. Patriotism has always been one of our cardinal principles, and every lodge meeting still closes the same way it has for over a century.

“To our absent members.” — the Eleven O’Clock Toast

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Community · Friendship · Charity

Who are the Elks?

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is one of America's oldest and largest fraternal orders, founded in 1868. Every lodge is a home for fellowship, service, and patriotism in its own hometown.

$481M+given through the Elks National Foundation for scholarships, veterans, and community programs.

What the Order does

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