Downtown Ames is about to get a whole lot sweeter with Heart of Ames, an event celebrating love, community, and all things local from February 1-16! Explore a variety of exciting activities, special offers, and heartwarming experiences, all hosted by your favorite downtown businesses. Ready to plan your perfect date or find the ideal gift? Here’s everything you need to know to experience the magic of Heart of Ames!
Plan the perfect date night
Looking for a lunch date spot? Potter’s Shoppe & Eatery is the perfect place, plus BOGO mimosas and small espresso drinks! (Feb. 1-16)
Bring your valentine and get to know each other on a whole new level. The Pour Bar at Oak Lane Candle Co. is a socially interactive retail experience bringing people together to explore and create through the power of scent. (Feb. 1-16)
Challenge yourselves to escape before time runs out! Create lasting memories while solving puzzles at No Escape Iowa! It’s the ultimate combination of fun, excitement, and teamwork, ensuring a night you’ll never forget! (Feb. 1-16)
Prepping for date night? Stop by Valor & Violet for a relaxing shampoo and masterful blowout! Feel like your best you for a special night out with your partner. (Feb. 1-16)
Experiences for the season of love
Bring the kids to The Shops at Clark & Main to create a free Valentine’s Day card at the card station! Fresh cotton candy will also be available when you shop on Saturdays and receive a free wax seal when purchasing a Valentine’s Day card! (Feb. 1-16)
Looking to try something new in the kitchen? You won’t want to miss out on Olivelle samplings on Saturdays at Cooks’ Emporium!
The Recipe is hosting a Korean BBQ Chef’s Table (Feb. 12) and a French Chef’s Table (Feb. 14)! Enjoy a hands-on session learning about how to craft and combine flavors and innovate in the kitchen.
Create beautiful Valentine art, cards and messages for your special people at Octagon Center for the Arts! All supplies will be provided. (Feb. 8)
Stock up on some new reading material at Dog-Eared Books Valentine’s Day Boozy Book Fair at Prairie Moon Winery! While romance books will be the highlight, there will also be a wide selection of other genres. Enjoy live music from a local band, raffles, crepes, and drinks while browsing the books!
Shop for your loved ones
Look good, feel good at Moorman Clothiers! Sip and shop for date night outfits! (Feb. 1-16)
Show your love of Ames and of that special person with an ISU print from Bethany Schultz at the Octagon Gallery Shop! There are so many art pieces, fit perfectly for gifting to that special someone.
Shop unique gifts for your loved ones at Worldly Goods! There is something for all of your loved ones here!
Purchase heart shaped charcuterie and treats for two at Savor on Main! These are perfect for a date night snack with your valentine. (Feb. 1-16)
Swing by Chocolaterie Stam and try some of their special valentine chocolates. Purchase delicious gifts for your loved ones during the season of love! (Feb. 1-16)
Celebrate Galentine’s Day
Get crafty at Prairie Rose Needleworks! Bring your friends and make a pair of tassel earrings for yourself or a special person in your life using one of the pink ombre options available. While you’re there pick up a stitching kit that comes with all the materials needed to enjoy a new hobby! (Feb. 1-16)
In the mood for valentine treats? Great Harvest Bakery and Café has you covered! Their handcrafted loaf of bread with creamy white chocolate and tart dried cherries is perfect for Galentine’s gifting. (Feb. 1-16)
Enjoy a free trivia night with drink specials at Della Viti! (Feb. 12) “Wine down” the night with a glass of wine and your group of gals. Choose from over 40 wines in the self-serve wine system to curate your own wine-tasting experience! (Feb. 1-16)
