Shoppers and students alike are heading downtown , Studio 13, an LGBTQIA+ inclusive nightclub that opened on Main Street in Ames, aims to revive queer nightlife and give performers a dedicated stage, and it already feels warm, lively and packed with possibility.

Essential Takeaways

  • First gay bar return: Studio 13 is the first explicitly LGBTQIA+ bar in Ames since Big Wigs closed in 2023, filling a clear nightlife gap.
  • Welcoming vibe: Guests and performers described the space as intimate, electric and inviting, with laughter, conversation and a supportive crowd.
  • Live performance hub: Drag shows, open mic nights and planned fundraisers are already on the calendar, giving local artists a reliable home.
  • Community-focused: The owners plan charity events and Pride programming, signalling long-term community engagement.
  • Accessible info: Hours and event details are published online, making it easy to plan a visit or support upcoming nights.

A small room with a big buzz , opening night felt electric

Opening night at Studio 13 was the kind of evening that tugs you in: a compact venue, packed by the time a drag show started around 10.30pm, with people smiling and talking as if they’d been waiting for this. The CEO, Jason Zeman, told attendees how meaningful it was to be thanked for creating the space, and you could feel why , it’s rare to find a venue that’s both intimate and celebratory. For anyone who’s missed a late-night spot that’s explicitly queer, this feels like a welcome return.

Why Ames needs this , a gap in the scene is now being filled

Ames hasn’t had a dedicated gay bar since Big Wigs closed last year, and locals noticed the absence. According to attendees and performers, other queer-friendly places exist in town but none are as explicitly LGBTQIA+ as Studio 13. That explicitness matters: it provides an unambiguous invitation for people exploring identity, allies looking to learn, and performers who need a dependable stage. In short, it’s not only a night out , it’s civic infrastructure for culture.

Drag, open mic and community events , what’s on the horizon

The club’s programming already promises variety: drag performances dominated opening night, but there are plans for open mic nights, comedy, poetry readings and fundraisers tied to Pride and local organisations. For performers, a dedicated venue means steadier gigs and a chance to shape public perception of drag beyond novelty. If you’re an artist, a quick tip: check the club’s website for submission and booking details so you don’t miss open-call nights.

Owners and performers see deeper value , gratitude, history and hope

Jason Zeman and local performers like Terra Byte emphasised more than profit; they spoke of gratitude and belonging. Terra Byte said she felt unusually welcomed and complimented, and she hopes the venue will broaden how people think about drag. New residents and Iowa State staff who attended described excitement at being part of something historic for Ames. Those reactions matter , they hint at the club becoming a place where generations of queer culture can be seen and celebrated.

How to make the most of Studio 13 , practical tips for visitors

If you’re planning a night out, expect a cosy space and come early for popular shows. Look up event listings online before you go, bring friends to support performers, and consider attending fundraisers to connect beyond a single night. If you’re new to queer venues, approach with curiosity: listen, enjoy, and remember that these spaces often rely on regulars showing up.

It's a small change that can make nightlife in Ames feel more inclusive and a lot more fun.

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