Shopping in Iowa: 20+ Stores with Unique Finds and Hidden Treasures

Shopping in Iowa is a breeze with our guide to the best in Iowa shopping. Discover outlet malls to antiques, art galleries to hip boutiques! 🛍️🌽

Quick Summary 📝

Discover Iowa’s unique shopping experiences in this detailed guide. 🛍️

• Diverse Shopping Destinations: From historic general stores to large open-air markets, Iowa offers a variety of shopping experiences. 🏬
• Unique Finds: Explore everything from bookshops with mysterious ambiances to antique treasures and vintage items. 📚💎
• Local Flavor: Experience Iowa’s charm through local artisan markets, popcorn shops, and specialty stores. 🌽🎨

Shopping in Iowa: The Essential Guide

Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of shopping, but it’s a true hidden gem for those seeking unique finds. From eclectic boutiques to large markets, art galleries to vintage stores, and even a store dedicated to popcorn, there’s something to delight every shopper. These shopping adventures will let you discover the unexpected charm of retail in the Hawkeye State.

1. Relive the Days of the General Store

The Greef General Store (21964 Hawk Dr, Keosauqua, IA 52565) is a charming and historic destination that takes visitors back in time with its authentic country store atmosphere. This beloved establishment offers a wide range of merchandise, including nostalgic items, antiques, and locally made crafts, providing a delightful shopping experience in Keosauqua, Iowa.

2. Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmer’s Market

Experience one of the largest open-air markets in the Midwest with over 200 local Iowa vendors at the Cedar Rapids Farmer’s Market (501 1st St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401).

3. A Bookworm’s Oasis in Iowa City

The Haunted Bookshop (219 N Gilbert St, Iowa City, IA 52245) is a literary haven that entices book lovers with its charm and mysterious ambiance. Nestled in Iowa City, this independent bookstore offers a vast selection of new and used books across various genres, creating an enchanting atmosphere for browsing and discovery. With its creaky floors, hidden corners, and knowledgeable staff, The Haunted Bookshop is a must-visit destination for bookworms seeking a unique and captivating reading experience.

4. Coral Ridge Mall, Coralville

Discover a shopper’s paradise at Coral Ridge Mall (1451 Coral Ridge Ave, Coralville, IA 52241), one of Iowa’s biggest shopping destinations.

5. Iowa Popcorn Company in Marion

Stock up on Iowa’s best popcorn at the Iowa Popcorn Company, made from four different strains of popcorn, all grown in western Iowa. The historic building that Iowa Popcorn Company (714 10th Street, Marion, IA 52302) calls home is was Marion’s very first business – established in 1837.

6. Antiquing in the Amana Colonies

Step back in time and search for antique treasures in the charming Amana Colonies (622 46th Ave, Amana, IA 52203), seven villages in Iowa County which span roughly 26,000 acres of east-central Iowa.

7. A Treasuring Hunting Paradise

Shopping at Crowded Closet Thrift Shop (851 Hwy 6 E, #101, Iowa City, IA 52240) is a treasure-hunting experience that combines affordability, sustainability, and a sense of community. This beloved thrift store offers a wide variety of gently used clothing, accessories, furniture, and household items, making it a go-to destination for bargain hunters and eco-conscious shoppers. With its ever-changing inventory and dedicated staff, Crowded Closet Thrift Shop provides a rewarding shopping experience where you can find unique treasures while supporting a worthy cause, as the store’s proceeds go towards supporting global and local relief efforts.

Join Jack and Kitty’s Newsletter!

8. Vintage Shopping in West End Architectural Salvage

Unearth vintage treasures and architectural salvage items in this unique four-story coffee bar and showcase for antiques from all over the world. West End Architectural Salvage (22 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50309) makes for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

9. Le Claire Shopping

Stroll the charming river town of Le Claire, with its unique boutiques, antique stores, and the home of Antique Archeology (115 Davenport St, Le Claire, IA 52753), made famous by the History Channel’s “American Pickers.”

10. University Book Store in Iowa City

Show off your Hawkeye pride by shopping for University of Iowa apparel and merchandise at the university’s official store. The University of Iowa Hawk Shop and University Bookstore is located on in the Iowa Memorial Union on the Ground Floor. When using GPS, try: 125 N Madison Street, Iowa City, IA 52242.

11. Home Decor Shopping at Sticks Object Art & Furniture

Find unique, handcrafted furniture and home decor at Sticks Gallery (400 E Locust St, Suite 12, Des Moines, IA 50309), a renowned studio in Des Moines.

12. Outlet Shopping at Tanger Outlets

Score great deals on designer brands like Gap, Nike, Old Navy, Polo Ralph Lauren, Talbots, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour, and more at Tanger Outlets & Marketplace (1991 O’Donnell Rd, Williamsburg, IA 52361).

13. Record Shopping at Zzz Records

Browse an extensive collection of vinyl records at Zzz Records (2200 Ingersoll Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312), a favorite among music lovers in Des Moines.

14. Woolen Mill Store in Amana

Buy woolen goods made on-site at the Woolen Mill Store (794 48th Ave, Amana, IA 52203), one of the oldest and last woolen mills in America.

15. Eastern Iowa’s Hippest Market

Shopping at the Good Makers Market (1195 210th St, Tipton, IA 52772) is a delightful experience that celebrates local artisans and makers. This unique market offers a curated selection of handmade goods, crafts, artwork, and specialty products, showcasing the talent and creativity of the community. Whether you’re seeking one-of-a-kind gifts, home decor items, or simply a chance to support local businesses, the Good Makers Market provides a charming and authentic shopping destination in Tipton, Iowa.

16. Seed Savers Exchange in Decorah

Purchase heirloom seeds for your garden at Seed Savers Exchange, a non-profit dedicated to preserving and sharing heirloom seeds. Seed Savers Exchange: Lillian Goldman Visitor Center is located at 3074 N Winn Rd, Decorah, IA 52101.

17. Craft Shopping at Crafted QC

Support local artisans by shopping for handmade goods at Crafted QC (5015 Competition Dr, Bettendorf, IA 52722) in Davenport. Also consider attending one of their fun workshops.

18. Book Shopping at Prairie Lights

Browse the extensive collection at Prairie Lights Books & Cafe (15 S Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA 52240), an independent bookstore in Iowa City, and be sure to check out their regular author events.

19. All Things Danish at the Danish Windmill

Shop for Danish goods at the gift shop inside the Danish Windmill (4038 Main St, Elk Horn, IA 51531), an authentic windmill imported from Denmark.

20. Worldly Goods Fair Trade Store

Shop for unique, fair trade items from around the world at Worldly Goods (223 Main St, Ames, IA 50010), a charming gift shop in the heart of Ames.

21. They Have It All at the Brass Armadillo Antique Mall

Shopping at the Brass Armadillo Antique Mall (701 NE 50th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313) is a treasure trove of vintage discoveries and nostalgic charm. With its vast selection of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds from various eras, this mall offers a captivating journey through time. From furniture and home decor to jewelry, artwork, and vintage memorabilia, the Brass Armadillo Antique Mall is a haven for antique enthusiasts and those seeking to add a touch of history to their lives in Des Moines, Iowa.

22. Garden Decor at Earl May Garden Centers

Spruce up your garden with a visit to a Earl May Garden Center, an Iowa institution since 1919. There’s numerous locations throughout the state.

23. Small Town Charm at the Whiffle Tree Mercantile

Shopping at the Whiffle Tree Mercantile (116 S Cedar St, Monticello, IA 52310) is a delightful experience that transports visitors to a world of charming and unique treasures. This beloved mercantile offers a curated selection of vintage-inspired home decor, handcrafted gifts, and artisanal goods that capture the essence of small-town charm. With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, the Whiffle Tree Mercantile is a must-visit destination for those seeking a touch of nostalgia and a chance to discover one-of-a-kind finds in Monticello, Iowa.

Conclusion

These shopping adventures will let you discover Iowa’s charm in a different light. Whether you’re a collector, fashionista, foodie, music lover, or just a casual shopper, you’re in for a treat.