The Octagon Center of the Arts has since moved down the block a few spots. I recently wandered into…read morethe shop and the adjacent gallery that was featuring a sign history of Ames. Great Stuff.

I really love this place! Cool art store/gallery/space to rent!…read more I have enjoyed concerts, classes, and art shows here! The rooms are beautiful and big enough for a nice crew to be in, but not huge enough to make things not feel intimate! The store is full of hand made, art stuff! Like Prints, one of a kind things, local art, jewelry, kitchen items, books, dvd's, cd's you name it! If it's art they probably have it! Perfect store for gift shopping for the unique someone who has everything...

Went to the gallery to see a band play and it was an awesome venue for that. It felt intimate, like…read morea private convert. For $10 to see Making Movies from Kansas City was a steal. The band is amazing. They played a mix of rock, classic salsa, covers of 80's musoc and instruments from Panama, Venezuela and Mexico. Their eclectic sounds in a setting filled with various art styles was a perfect mix. Got there early and enjoyed the current displays while I waited for the show to start. There were seats and high tables, with a small bar set up in the back. When the crowd started dancing they moved chairs out of the way to make space but it didn't take away from the show. Overall, it is a gem that creates varied ambiance depending on the event and offers a unique experience every time.

Rented the venue for a 40th Birthday Party after hours. Very reasonable price and communication…read morewith Ryan and Bob was impeccable every time I called or had a question. My guests were very impressed with the space and staff. It very comfortably held 50 guests with enough space for bar, DJ, dance floor, food and lots of room to mingle around and look at the art. The artwork at the time was by Chuck Hipsher and went perfectly with the theme of the party. I am looking for any and every reason to go back for another party! It was the best. Thanks guys!

I am getting a very large tattoo done on my leg and I cannot believe the amazing work Daniel is…read moredoing. This will be my 4th Tattoo and it is by far the best one I have ever gotten anywhere. He is very professional and the shop has an awesome vibe. He truly cares about his clients and wants them to leave happy. I have seen some of the amazing cover up work he has done for others and it is truly breath taking. I will def. recommend this shop to any one.

This was a fantastic museum to stumble upon in Mason City. We could have spent longer here looking…read moreat everything (but we were pressed for time). Bil Baird's puppets were my absolute favorite permanent collection. Such a variety of puppets - you'll even get to see some of the puppets featured in The Sound of Music from 1965. (If you've seen the movie, you'll recognize them immediately.) MacNider has the most extensive Bil Baird puppet collection anywhere in the world; I suspect it's because Bil grew up in Mason City. The museum resides in a Tudor-style home, previously a private residence and a convent. The house has gone through several renovations over the years. The original staircase is beautiful. The art outside the museum between it and the library is neat, too. If you're going to Mason City, take advantage of MacNider! Free admission.

Such a great museum. A must see when visiting Mason City…read more It's FREE, so no worries if you've just spent all your money at the local ice-cream shop. Donations only. Full of rich history and great exhibits. They even have a small gift shop with items made from local artist. Upstairs the Bill Baird puppets are on display. If you don't know who Bill Baird is, he's the guy who created the puppets for the movie.... The Sound Of Music. They have an Imagination playground for younger children and even a few local exhibits from artists all over the Mid-West. Some of the local exhibits change monthly. They also offer art classes like painting and pottery. Fun place to visit.

Scott did a colored aluminum cutout for me for a wedding gift to my new wife. The work was…read moreoutstanding, professional, and spot on with both time and budget. Scott kept in great contact throughout the process, working with me to create this unique piece of art, and had many great ideas on how to bring my original thoughts to life artistically. She absolutely loves it, and now we have an incredible and durable piece to commemorate our special day. Excellent work and very professional on all counts.

From the owner: custom airbrush artwork, original paintings, portraits, motorcycle paint, paint repair, graphic…read moredesign services, computer mock ups, signage, commercial/residential interior design, murals, branding, memorials/tributes

The Produce Station Pottery has an amazing knowledgeable owner who is always eager to help you find…read morethe perfect pottery piece.

From the owner: As Seen in the Daily Freeman Journal January 5 2012 Edition. read more

Stopped out during RAGBRAI to check this place out. They were very organized having a line for beer…read moreand a separate area for mixed drinks. They had drink specials and even provided a few snacks free of charge. The mule was incredible and the vodka lemonade had a special twist I enjoyed. There was plenty of comfortable seating both indoor and out. The decor was inviting but not overwhelming. Friendly service with a smile, we will be back.

They are mixed drink location. The main issue is the seating is not structured. The issue with that…read moreis intoxicated people just being rude. Parking is limited and is most side street parking. Overall a nice place but depending on the time of year it might be a bit much to sit and sip and hold a conversation.

I have seen so many amazing shows here. This All Ages venue definitely has a solid community behind…read moreit.