As incoming freshman, one of the biggest concerns about moving to Ames may be that there will be no where to shop. But think again.

The North Grand Mall has many stores and other amenities to offer ISU students. 

“You may shop, dine and enjoy more than 50 name-brand stores, specialty boutiques, restaurants and service providers,” said Lori Bosley, general manager of North Grand Mall.

The North Grand Mall is packed with stores that students will enjoy. Bosley lists off stores such as: JCPenney, Younkers, Gap, American Eagle, Eddie Bauer, Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works and Buckle — just to name a few.

If it is food and entertainment you are looking for, you can grab a bite to eat at Cookies, etc.; Jimmy John’s; Flame & Skewer or Pretzelmaker. Then you can go catch a movie at the North Grand 5 theater.

The North Grand 5, commonly referred to as the “dollar” theater, plays movies that were released a few months earlier. If you wait and see the movies at this theater, tickets are only $1.50 and 3-D movies are $3.50.

With all of the shopping that you will be doing, you may blow through your money pretty quickly. If this ends up being the case for you, Bosley said: “Job seekers will find multiple employment opportunities at the 50 plus businesses located at the mall.” 

Freshman may be worried about transportation to and from the mall if they do not have a vehicle.  The North Grand Mall is located just a few miles from exit 113 on Interstate 35, at 2801 Grand Ave. in Ames.

“The North Grand Mall is close to Iowa State University and on the CyRide bus route,” Bosley said. 

Students can be picked up by the No. 1 Red or No. 3 Blue CyRide bus right from campus. The buses will drop you off and pick you up directly outside the front of the mall, so there is no need to worry about hauling all of your bags far distances. 

Make sure to take a trip out to the North Grand Mall during your first year here at Iowa State. This mall has much to offer college students for their shopping, dining and entertainment needs. 

For more information go to www.NorthGrandMall.com.