GIFTS

Wild Birds Unlimited

With gift ideas for every age and budget, Wild Birds Unlimited offers advice and events to help create a bird-feeding habitat in your own backyard.

“We’re focused on backyard and nature, but we also carry handmade items such as candy, jellies, jewelry and ornaments,” said Linda Thomas, owner of the Ames location.

Whether you’re looking for stocking stuffers, bird feeders or something in-between, this specialty store also provides shipping and free gift-wrapping for your holiday needs.

Chester’s Coin and Gifts

Chester’s Coin and Gifts is the perfect place to shop for the hobby enthusiast on your list. In addition to buying, selling and appraising coins, Chester’s has unique gifts found only on Main Street.

“We are the only place in town that sells wine- and beer-making kits,” said owner Scott Nichols.

The store offers 25 varieties of wine and beer and provide necessary ingredients, bottles and keg and corking equipment.

Skunk River Cycles

Whether you’re in search of bicycles, fitness equipment or apparel, Skunk River Cycles is a one-stop shop. This full-service bike store is a leading dealer in Cannondale, Marin, Raleigh and Schwinn bicycles, and also repairs any other make, model or year.

Jared Morford, assistant manager, suggested bike lights as a practical gift to help keep you safe.

“Chrome messenger bags are also popular, because they’re durable, waterproof and hold ice for long trips,” he said.

Rieman Music

“Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for a while, we’ve got something for you,” said Derrick Gorsch, manager of Rieman Music.

From drum sets to bass guitars, Rieman Music retailers offer instruments, audio equipment and sheet music for any musician on your list. It also provide rentals, repairs or music lessons for all ages and experience levels.

Worldly Goods

This nonprofit retail store features handcrafted gifts made by artisans around the world. More than 70 volunteers meet with artists to purchase crafts for resale.

“Everything is fair trade and handmade,” said manager Melanie Christian. “There’s a unique story behind every item.”

Cycle Source Group

Cycle Source Group serves the cycling industry through a variety of retailers, importing quality bicycles and equipment for outdoor enthusiasts.

“We have the most affordable bikes in town and offer a variety of accessories,” said Matt Nims, vice president of sales.

Octagon Center for the Arts

Experience the holiday season with a visit to the newly renovated Octagon Gallery Shop in the heart of the Ames cultural district. The shop features unique, handcrafted fine art and crafts by area artists.

“From a large selection of ornaments, fashion accessories, and items under $25, you can find special gifts in all media and price ranges,” said Ruth Wiedemeier, manager of the gallery shop.

The Octagon Center for the Arts is dedicated to promoting artists and their work in the surrounding area through its retail store, public art education programs and art exhibits.

BARS

The London Underground

This English-style pub features a large selection of imported beers on tap and nightly drink specials. If you’re looking for music, games or simply to enjoy a conversation, the relaxing atmosphere of the London Underground draws in a diverse crowd.

“If you’re in town over the holidays, stop by with your friends and family,” said Kris Olds, London Underground bartender. “We’re open by 4 p.m. daily, and would be happy to have you.”

Sportsman Lounge

Put down the shopping bags and relax with a drink from the friendly staff at Sportsman Lounge. With holiday drink specials and large selection of beer, this bar is a great spot for meeting up with co-workers or to catch the big game.

“Our signature drinks are the ‘bullshot’ and apple pie shots,” said manager Jon Hack. “Stop in and have a round with friends.”

Corner Pocket/DG’s Tap House

With 15 pool tables, a full-size English snooker table and an NFL sports package, Corner Pocket has your gaming needs covered. Nightly specials are offered through the week, with free pool on Sundays.

“We’re open 365 days a year,” said Trace Thunhorst, manager of the pool hall. “We’re here on Christmas, New Year’s and all other holidays.”

After a round of pool, head upstairs to DG’s Tap House to try a new beer or enjoy some music. The tavern has more than 175 imported and domestic beers – one of the widest selections in Ames. It also features live bands and entertainment throughout the week and Friday and Saturday nights.

ERRANDS

Lynn’s Car and Pet Wash

Open 24 hours a day seven days a week, Lynn’s Car Wash has your vehicle needs covered. It features two automatic wash bays, seven self-serve bays, a large vehicle station and eight powerful vacuums.

Lynn’s also has a pet wash with a high tub, soap and flea treatments to make washing your pet easy. Dry it off with a “clean pet” vacuum and load your dog into a clean car.

“We have ‘clean cards,’ which are gift cards that can be purchased online or at the shop,” said owner Ryan Davis.

These make for a practical gift or stocking stuffer, especially during slushy winter months.

JEWELRY

Gilger Designs

Looking for a unique, beautiful piece of jewelry that is sure to melt that special someone’s heart? Look no further than Gilger Designs.

Co-owner Judy Gilger encourages students to make the trip to Main Street to check out their custom creations.

“We have such a variety of items, all high-quality and unique to what customers are looking for,” Gilger said.

Not only does Gilger have breath-taking wedding sets and high-end casual jewelry, they also sell a variety of Iowa State-inspired pieces. Campaniles, ISU logos and mini Cyclones can all be custom ordered in earrings, cufflinks or pendants, depending on your need.

Shari K’s Estate Jewelry

Shari K’s Estate Jewelry is Ames’ primary location for estate, previously owned jewelry. With prices as affordable as Shari K’s, students can’t afford not to stop in and grab some holiday gifts from this quality jewelry supplier.

Shari Busse, owner of Shari K’s, encourages students to come stop by for all their gifting needs.

“We have something for every style and every budget,” Busse said.

If you are looking to make some extra cash for your holiday shopping, Shari K’s buys gold and sterling silver for top dollar. Bring in your Iowa State ID and receive 10 percent extra for your item.

Ames Silversmithing

Ames Silversmithing is a family-owned business that has been around for 35 years. The store is known for its well-informed staff who are excited to share their knowledge and its one-of-a-kind jewelry, some of which are designed right in the store.

No matter what your budget, Ames Silversmithing is sure to have something to fit. From $25 to an astonishing $350,000 ring, Ames Silversmithing is a great place for all your jewelry needs.

Kyle Youngberg, manager at Ames Silversmithing, said silver is the hot item this season. “When gold isn’t in the budget, look to silver,” Youngberg said.

Ames Silversmithing has a wide variety of inexpensive, high-quality silver and pearl items that are guaranteed to please buyers.

FOOD

Olde Main

Located at the heart of Main Street, Olde Main Brewing Co. is known for its hand-crafted beer and delicious dishes that are sure to leave guests’ bellies full.

“We are releasing two beers this December,” sad Jeff Irvin, Brew Master at Olde Main.”One is Reindeer Fuel, which is a double chocolate porter infused with 45 pounds of chocolate, as well an imperial brown beer that will be one of our strongest beers yet.”

Heather Courtney, marketing director at Olde Main, noted that their growlers are a great gift idea. These bottles, which hold 64 ounces, can be purchased for $4 and filled any day of the week for $9 and only $5 on Thursdays.

Ames Cupcake Emporium

Looking for a sweet way to wrap up your day of shopping? Ames Cupcake Emporium is the perfect place to stop and enjoy a freshly made cookie or cupcake.

Ames Cupcake Emporium bakes seven different flavors each day, so there is sure to be one to fit your taste.

Tawnya Verr, owner of Cupcake Emporium, is excited to bring in some holiday flavors that are sure to keep you in the holiday mode.

“We offer flavors such as peppermint, eggnog and gingerbread, as well as our traditional flavors during the holiday seasons,” Verr said.

Verr said they are also excited to introduce mini pies that will be offered in a variety of flavors. The shop also offers lunch items, such as soup and sandwiches.

APPAREL

The Loft

The Loft is known for its wide selection of resale clothing, but what many shoppers don’t know about are the other hidden treasures that can be found within the doors of The Loft.

New, wholesale jewelry as can be found.

With most items costing less than $20, these items, as well as the trendy resale clothing and shoes, can fit just about any budget.

“We have tons of great items at extremely reasonable prices,” said Tim Bolar, manager at The Loft.

If you are looking to make some extra cash for the holiday season, The Loft is also a great place to bring in trendy jeans, sweaters, winter coats, dresses and shoes you no longer wear. Another big ticket item that can bring in some extra cash is prom dresses, which will be accepted throughout December and January.

Moorman Clothiers

If you have a formal event coming up this holiday season, Moorman Clothiers is the perfect place to find all your attire.

Moorman Clothiers, known for its unique selection and top-notch customer service, is the only place in Ames that sells men’s dress wear of its kind.

“We sell high quality brands such as Tommy Bahama, St. Croix and Lacoste,” said Mary Moffitt Anderson, sales associate at Moorman Clothiers explained. She also noted they sell a great selection of women’s wear and winter accessories such as hats and gloves.

Moorman Clothiers also offers high-end, unique ISU apparel for men and women.

Miss Meyer’s Consignment

Miss Meyer’s is a great location to find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts that are sure to please. Not only does Miss Meyer’s offer consigned clothing and accessories, it has a large selection of new accessories.

“We will have a large selection of holiday sweaters for all your party needs,” said Katherine Kerns, owner of Miss Meyer’s. “If you are searching for gifts, we also have a ton of new scarves, notebooks and accessories crafted by local artists.”

Miss Meyer’s is currently accepting winter apparel, jeans, outdoor wear and business attire. Sellers receive 40 percent of the selling price.

Casual Revolution

Casual Revolution, a new boutique to Main Street, is the perfect place to purchase handcrafted and vintage wear. The store has a large selection of apparel for all ages, infant to adult. The store takes pride in having a wide variety of items all handcrafted, repurposed or refashioned.

“Our goal is to not have any item that you could find in a department store,” said Brian Foddrill, owner of Casual Revolution.