I was pleased to find a solid farmer's market with food trucks, crafts, produce, specialty items,…read moreand an overall fun environment on my initial visit. Located immediately south of the High Trestle Bike (and running) Trail, this market has ample parking and an easy layout under a pair of covered pavilions. The Uptown District also has a number of shops, bars, and restaurants nearby. This Market occurs every Saturday from 8 to noon. Kindness is abundant, and there are lots of overall good vibes. I enjoyed the little train that hauled the kiddos around the perimeter of the Market, and appreciated how clean the area was throughout my stay, I like how the food trucks are on the outside of the market footprint, making it easy to move around and enjoy the venue.

The people were super friendly. I thought it was open til 2pm though and it closed at 12pm. Not…read moresure if I misread something or the information was incorrect. Anyhow, I didn't get to visit all the vendors or make purchases of the things I wanted because it closed 30 minutes after we got there. That being said it was in a nice grassy/shady area and not on concrete, which was nice

An Ames Tradition Since 1973…read more The Ames Downtown Farmers' Market is located at the old Train Station and runs mostly during May to October on Thursdays and Saturdays. Besides the cool architectural backdrop and the sound of UP Trains whizzing by, you can expect seasonal fruits & vegetables, dairy, meat, jams/jellies, wines, baked goods, and crafts - all from local vendors. I also enjoy the people watching and the community energy. And wouldn't you rather be here than walking the "not as fresh" aisles at the nearby Hy-Vee?

Another off the beaten path garden center. Beautiful view and a charming setting on the farm…read more Plants are well taken care of and you will surely find something you want to add to your garden.

Finally checked out the Valley Junction Farmers Market. Arrived shortly after 4pm and found a…read morereally close spot so I was excited. Wandered out to look at vendors. Definitely a smaller more close knit group than compared to the DSM downtown farmers market. It got busy very quickly as it was of the nicest days so far all Summer. If you're watching the live music you gotta get your seats fast. Bring folding chairs. The businesses around the area were bustling and I made sure to check a few of those as well. Every vendor was friendly and inviting. Lots of samples! Local businesses. Farmers. Handmade goods. Jams. Fresh veggies & fruits. Flower arrangements. I would have posted more pictures but it got busy and I was enjoying everything.

I loved my first visit to the Valley Junction Farmers Market. It was a terrific combination of…read morefood, booths, shops, music, and people! Parking was easy, liking the way the stores get a lot of foot traffic as the booths butt up against the sidewalk, facing the stores. There was a perfect vibe from the attendees, seemingly something for everyone. I was unaware of the area, and this Market brought it to my attention.

Even though it was the early growing season (second weekend in May), the FM was packed full of…read morevendors. There were a couple of honey purveyors, food trucks (must get a breakfast burrito from Cottonwood Canyon), artisans, and plant vendors. We did buy mushrooms, asparagus, honey, and a beeswax candle.

Chemical free veges, fruit and herbs! Friendly and warm people! Good vibes! I have some other…read moreproducts at the farmers markets or at their farm stand such as veggies, fruits, herbs, teas, coffee, pottery, soap etc