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/

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.

This is the oldest, most established and most competent comic book store in central Iowa. This is…read morethe original baby. You're not going to find anything on this scale with this inventory in 200 miles. This store is large and they have a deep, deep inventory of comics. They are exceptionally enthusiastic and knowledgeable about everything in stock and have a really good comic subscription program that allows you to keep a 'box' for your comics and pick them up in bulk.

Amazing selection, super friendly and helpful staff. And some of the cleanest bathrooms I've ever…read moreseen at a game store!

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.

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.

I had such a fun shopping experience at Quilting Connection this afternoon. So many bolts of fabric…read moreand friendly staff. I felt welcomed. The next time we take a road trip in this direction, I'll make a point of visiting again.

I know they will always have what I need. Kelly, the owner is so good and all the ladies that work…read morethere are so helpful. It's the best material store in our area.

This store is great! They do their best to keep it clean and organized as well as keep the prices…read morereasonable. There's quite a variety of items to choose from and you can even bring in your own for consignment. The only downside to that, in my opinion, is how picky they are with what they will and will not accept. That's ok though, the rest gets donated, so no harm done :) All of the staff members are very welcoming and helpful too. Worth the stop to shop :)

A nice little store with a good selection of lightly used children and baby items. The prices were…read morereasonable; certainly much cheaper than purchasing things brand new, but not dirt cheap.

One of my favorite little consignment shops!…read more This is a higher end consignment shop for being in semi-rural Iowa. They recently (04/2025) moved from a location in Gilbert IA to Nevada IA. Not going to lie though... I liked the Gilbert space a bit better. Nothing wrong with the Nevada location; they are still working on getting settled so it may turn out just as nice in the long run, That being said... It's the the same great staff and same great selection. If you don't like dust this is the place for you. Always clean. Prices are reasonable and items range from smalls to beautiful handcrafted furniture. Definitely worth the trip to check this spot out if you are a treasure hunter!