Ames 1864 is located within the relatively new "Shops on Clark and Main", which used to house a…read moreHyVee pharmacy. It's on the far end of Downtown, and has not yet developed the foot traffic for people to stop and browse. Ames was founded in 1864, hence the name. This cute little shop contains several stationary and gift Items with that motif and similar. They also offer area maps (State, Lincoln Highway, etc.) as sort of a visitors center service. I came away with a very nice compressed paper-like cutting/serving board shaped like the State of Iowa. Other shops here at Clark and Main include Nook & Nest and Z.W. Mercantile. I found the entire complex to be inviting, well designed, and with a wide variety of interesting items. https://www.shopclarkandmain.com/

I really love this place! Cool art store/gallery/space to rent!…read more I have enjoyed concerts, classes, and art shows here! The rooms are beautiful and big enough for a nice crew to be in, but not huge enough to make things not feel intimate! The store is full of hand made, art stuff! Like Prints, one of a kind things, local art, jewelry, kitchen items, books, dvd's, cd's you name it! If it's art they probably have it! Perfect store for gift shopping for the unique someone who has everything...

I cannot say enough good things about the artwork and showcase of talented local artists…read more Unfortunately, if you want to make a purchase you have to interact with the staff. First, they will not greet you when you enter even if the shop is dead. And if you go to check out, you might experience what I did which was an older woman who was strangely nasty. I had asked a question about their events schedule and instead of answering she did this weird judgmental laugh in my face and turned and walked away. At first I wasn't sure if she was coming back but nope, she just took off. I hadn't even finished the traction. Super uncomfortable and unfriendly experience. Go for the art, do not expect a welcoming or even polite environment. Can't say I'll be back, I'll shop from artists directly in the future.

Best coffee & coffee drinks in town. Funky, friendly atmosphere. Friendly, funny employees. Nice…read moreselection of gently used albums & unique art.

For the music and coffee and shop local lovers. This place is cozy and always 72 degrees. It's a…read morevibe.

A cute little boutique style shop! A lot of new items, some locally made goods, and a few…read moreantiques. The staff was friendly. Pretty sure she was the owner. Very clean little place and easy to find right on the main drag in downtown Jewell. Definitely worth your time to stop by...if you are in the area.

Absolutely love this little shop. Everything from local handmade items to antiques and…read morecollectibles. The shop looks small from the outside, but once you open the doors the journey begins. My gf likes the front two rooms, but all the way at the back is where you'll find me. That's where you'll find the old treasures. And that's my happy spot. A must stop for us now in Slater when we are cutting between Ames and the metro. And if you are in Slater check out Cole's too. You won't be sorry.

I've been a gun enthusiast since I was young, but I'm a first-time gun owner. I recently received…read moremy conceal carry license and was looking for a handgun. The guys behind the counter were very patient with me in my indecision because it was a very important decision to make since that firearm will protect me and my family. The indoor range was a great opportunity to try out several guns. They are very professional and very friendly. I 100% recommend this place.

This is my LGS and I always try to support local, but new guys is terrible and I won't be back.read more

I love this yarn store! It has a fun, modern vibe and didn't feel stuffy or old lady-ish at all. I…read morewas really surprised to find a really good selection of cotton yarns there. Most yarn stores I go to don't have cotton yarns which are great for Amigurumi (something I'm really into right now). They even had a cool Amigurumi book that I've had my eye on for a while. They also had some Amigurumi animals that they had made up using the cotton yarns, which is really a smart idea because they showed off the yarns really well. I chatted with a person who I think was the owner and she was really friendly and helpful. We talked about Amigurumi and crocheting, which I found very refreshing because most of the yarn stores I've been to cater mostly to knitters. I really like that they had books and tools for knitters and crocheters. I do both but I'm more comfortable with crocheting. I bought a hank of cotton yarn and the woman I was chatting with wound it into a ball for me. I really love that! They also teach knitting and crocheting classes. I can't wait to take one of their classes. I just can't say enough good things about this place. It feels like a relaxed and fun environment. I wish there was a store like this in Des Moines.

The Knittery Nook has been with me through thick and thin. Thank you for enabling my yarn habits…read moreand thank you for your quality service and exciting selection. I have highly enjoyed getting to know all of the attendants through the years I've lived here. I wish i could stay in Ames longer and spend more time here. This is probably my favorite place in the city. I have also spent over 1k here in total over two years because i chew through yarn like it's a full time job. Will definitely be ordering online next time i need 999,999 skeins of alpaca. Love you all very much, and i am so sad to leave. I'll have to visit sometime.

They have a really cool build-your-own terrarium station where you can choose your own glass…read morecontainer, plants, and other decorative elements. The kids will love it! They also have a great selection of essential oils and supplies for making your own creations. I bought a cool cardinal and gold sticker.

Located in the middle of Ames' Main Street shopping district, we thoroughly enjoyed our initial…read morevisit to Life Distilled, a modern day apothecary on the NW corner of Kellogg and Main. Lots of natural light and big windows make for a comfortable feel, and the staff was incredibly kind and not pushy. They took "Iowa Nice" to another level, making the visit fun and informative. Options include all natural fragrances, artwork, cards, flowers, bracelets, stickers, earrings, plants, and items for the home. The service was spot on with a high level of knowledge and kindness. They have in-store events, and it is just a feel-good store to visit.