An adorable shop that has far more than books run by lovely ladies. We managed to find some books…read moreand some souvenirs on this trip! Do plan to stop by if you are passing through!

Nestled along the Mississippi River in Bellevue is a terrific bookstore run by a wonderful owner,…read moreSheila! Street parking available, and the interior just act and feels like a neighborhood bookstore, but the warmth of the store a what separates it from most others. That begins with Sheila and her dog Buster, as they specialize in books but elevate the whole experience with personality. I went inside for an atlas, and discovered a great place! A Chicago native, Sheila is a treat. She knows her store and her town, and is helpful as can be. Kind, aware, and vibrant, what a fun person.

Having a really hard time understanding the 2 negative reviews. Had a great experience there, seems…read morelike one bad review needs to take a class on small business, and the other bad review could've been avoided by doing some more research, as well as asking some questions about the dealerships practices and process. Anyway with that outta the way, I'll talk about my experience. I walked in looking for a new handgun, I chatted with the owner (who I didn't think looked like the tiger king whatsoever?) who was very friendly. Chatted about calibers, politics, gun sizes for CCW, and then I asked to see a few pistols. He immediately grabbed what I requested, didn't flag me, proper trigger discipline, and set them on the counter, allowing me to view them, check the sights. Then he ran me down what each gun came with. I asked to look at a few more options, also not a problem. And made a decision on a nice Steyr 9mm. They got up the case and rang me up, he handed me the paperwork and was extremely clear on what needed filled out and where. At this point he handed me off to his wife who turned in the paperwork for a background check while he went and helped another customer out (with what sounded like was advice on buying through a private sale, basically he was helping someone who wasn't buying anything from him through what a private sale should look like, which in my mind is both excellent being a good person and a great way to earn a customer.) my background check went through within 2 minutes, and I payed for the gun. The owner then handed me some paperwork and a pamphlet for a free online course to get certified for my concealed carry permit which he explained was a good thing in case I brought the pistol with me to other states.... After the sale, you know, the part where most people/businesses smile and wave and say "see you next time"? I call that going above and beyond. On a final note one other review says that the owner had his FFL revoked so his wife has to do the transactions. I kind of doubt that, but you know what? Even if that's true, the ATF will revoke an FFL for an offensive social media post, or putting a stock on the back of a pistol, they change their rule book every two weeks and their opinion on a persons qualifications don't really mean much to me. Anyway, sorry about the text wall, I was just pretty frustrated seeing negative reviews that didn't really sound like they were the owners fault. 10/10, they have my current and future business. Hell I might go tomorrow for a rifle.

Went to purchase a gun case from here today. Says online and the door they open at 9. We sat there…read morea while after 9 and no one opened. So we asked the people next door and they said the owner took his kid to Chicago airport. No sign on the door or anything.... what a bust!

I contacted Shane to help me figure out my internet and wireless needs for a multi-unit apartment…read morebuilding. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and responsive. I'll be using him again for sure.

Are you a local or passing through the Bellevue area who maybe contemplating buying a easy to ride…read moreBicycle? Maybe one that resembles those you grew up riding in your youth? Are you a Cycling junkie who enjoys talking stories with a well traveled soul that has his own to match? I have cycled many roads and met many colorful souls along the pedaling path of life. There is none finer than Mark a retired Veteran who worked the railroads in his other life. After being injured at work he made a decision to go to school to gather a "Certified Cycling Mechanic" label to add to his already love for building, and fixing things especially bikes. Once you come through the doors of his shop you realize this is a little different than most. Every nook and cranny of space is neatly utilized. It has a rhythm and a way as it begins to speak to you about this place he has named "The Backwaters Bicycle Shop". He has what must be close to 200 Bikes, an assortment of many types and styles all in the finest condition possible. I won't rave about the Bikes he has restored some from the 1940's, the kind that Mike Wolfe from American Pickers while visiting has tried several times but could not get him to let go of. I won't seek to amaze you with the prices on some of these beautiful Bikes he is selling with 1960 prices that are rebuilt to perfection or the newer bikes he has that are just what most who live in this Midwest Farmland might well be seeking. I suspect that once you visit you will not pass through Bellevue Iowa again on your way North or South without calling and checking to see if he is at work in "The Backwaters Bike Shop". It's an absolute must visit and will provide an opportunity to take a step back in time with what I consider one of the finest souls you will ever cross paths with.

What a great place to buy craft supplies! Lots of fabric options, greeting card making supplies,…read morestickers, embellishments, wood pieces -- it would take me all day to list everything. Prices are very reasonable! Don't take my word for it -- check it out yourself!

I know I have craft supplies I'll never use, and I know I'm still going to buy new craft supplies!…read moreI love being able to donate the things I know I'm done with, and have the opportunity to buy the craft supplies I want cheaper and using stuff already out there! Plus it supports a local business! I wish I could volunteer, the more help they have to organize, the easier it'll be for everyone to find some crafty inspiration there!

I had them laser engrave the shaft of an Estwing ball peen hammer. He did a great job and was very…read moreeasy to work with.

I taught Laura Art in elementary school. She and her whole family are very talented. It takes…read morevision and insight to know what a customer wants as far as quilting goes for a quilt. When I found a hand painted quilt top I had put away I knew I wanted Laura to finish it for me. If I could still quilt my own wall hanging I would have wanted this horse head drawn and enhanced not just an over-all background quilting done. I explained that to Laura and she understood my vision. She returned the finished piece quickly. It was all I could hope for and beautifully done. Cost was what I expected for the amount of stitching that was done,very reasonable. I knew Laura was talented, skillful, and understanding. This was proven by her work. I would recommend her work to anyone who wants a beautiful quilt done with love and care. Please let her express her artistic insight and create a one of a kind quilt for you.