Story County, Iowa
Story County is located in central Iowa and is home to Iowa State University in Ames. Reiman Gardens, on the university’s campus, is a beautiful place to visit, featuring themed gardens and a butterfly pavilion.
The county also hosts the Iowa Games, a multi-sport event that attracts athletes from across the state. Nevada is the second-largest city here, but locals pronounce its name differently. So, make sure you say it right.
The county is named after Joseph Story, a Supreme Court justice. Whether you’re visiting the university or exploring the countryside, Story County is a lively place with plenty to offer.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Story County |
| County Seat | Nevada |
| Etymology | Named in honor of Joseph Story, US Supreme Court Justice |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Ames, Nevada, Huxley, Collins, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 30, Iowa Highway 64 |
| FIPS Code | 19-169 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 573 square miles (land: 571 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Hamilton County (Northwest), Hardin County (Northeast), Marshall County (East), Jasper County (Southeast), Polk County (South), Boone County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| Population | 100,000 |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 42.04°N, 93.46°W |
| Major Landmarks | Iowa State University, the Story County Historical Society Museum, and the Reiman Gardens |
TRANSPORTATION MAP
Story County Road Map
Interstate 35 runs north to south in a perfectly straight line through Ames. US 30 follows a similar straight path from east to west, ignoring the bends of the South Skunk River. Backroads create neat grids, with most roads leading toward quiet fields. Zoom in to explore all the major routes across Story County.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Story County Satellite Map
Ames is the standout feature, located in the western part of the county. The South Skunk River winds through the area, surrounded by patches of trees. Farmland dominates the landscape, with fields arranged in neat squares. While college life keeps Ames busy, the rest of the county remains quiet and agricultural. (Don’t get confused by the imagery at the top, as it is from another year.)
OUTLINE MAP
Story County Blank Map
Story County is nearly a perfect square with smooth edges. No major rivers form its borders, and it does not touch any other state. It borders Boone, Hamilton, and Polk counties.
Iowa County Maps
Iowa County Map
Where the sky stretches wide and scenic backroads lead to authentic small-town experiences, Iowa’s 99 counties offer plenty of charm to discover. Come explore the beauty of wide-open spaces, peaceful landscapes, and the simple grace that makes the Hawkeye State truly special.