This is your one stop shop for all things outdoors. Part museum, entertainment complex. retail…read moreshop, and school, this is one massive entertainment and shopping destination. Bass Pro Shops was founded by Johnny Morris who grew up in the wilderness of Missouri hunting and fishing. He developed a passion for bass fishing and he did it professionally for 5 years. Johnny started Bass Pro Shops by selling tackle in 8 square feet in the back of his father liquor store. From those humble beginnings he has grown his business to 177 stores which welcomes 200 million visitors annually earning him the honorary title of "the Walt Disney of the outdoors". Johnny Morris is also a dedicated conservationist. When you check out you can round up your purchase to donate to their conservation fund. They also have a really generous return policy of 60 days as long as you keep your receipt. I stopped in here on the way to Chicago to pick up a pair of sunglasses but they only had high end brands. Not exactly what I had in my mind although everywhere I went the staff was very helpful. One thing I didn't like was how people throughout the store hassled me to sign up for their credit card to get a free hat and to sign up to won cash and free vacations. My friend ended up picking up a jacket on the clearance rack since she forgot hers. The centerpiece of the store is a large waterfall with native fish swimming in a tank at it's base. It is my dream to buy one of their kayaks one day. The guns and hunting gear hold the least interest for me. If I am lucky enough to see a deer in the wild the only thing I want to shoot it with is my camera. Other items they sell include hiking gear, grills, toys, snacks, camping gear, and even boats and ATV's from their own line. They offer concealed carry classes as well as many special events during the year including a Spring Fishing Classic, Fall Hunting Classic and a Go Outdoors event. Other events include boat shows, Family Summer Camp, and Santa's Wonderland. You can find events and dates by checking their events page. It is always fun to walk around a Bass Pro Shops. They really strive to have something for everyone. One other thing of note is that this stores restaurant recently closed. There was a sign for the auction. They plan to expand their retail space. Such a shame because the Bimini bread is the best. I hope this is not a trend for all of their locations.

I love going to the store and today, 6/19, I went and did get everything I was looking for with…read moresome help. Unfortunately something I did notice was as soon as I and my two friends entered the store, not all but most employees we encountered treated us with rude attitudes. Nothing was directly said but I felt very unwelcome.