Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for your significant other or you simply need a little retail therapy, Iowa’s shopping malls and outlets are an excellent option. Find the latest tech, home décor, designer clothing, and so much more. Are you ready to stop till you drop? From Des Moines to Waterloo, here are our favorite malls and outlets in the state.
At over 1.3 million square-feet, Jordan Creek Town Center, in West Des Moines, is the biggest shopping complex in Iowa. In addition to retailers like Brooks Brothers, the Apple Store and lululemon, Jordan Creek is also home to a movie theater multiplex and an amphitheater that hosts free live music shows.
Before being edged out by Jordan Creek Town Center, Coralville’s Coral Ridge Mall was the state’s largest. It’s still second and the biggest mall in Eastern Iowa. At Coral Ridge, you’ll find stores like Abercrombie & Fitch and Hot Topic, as well as an ice arena, a children’s museum and even an indoor carousel.
Valley West Mall is another of the shopping centers that make West Des Moines a retail Mecca for Iowans. This classic mall is home to all the standards you’d hope to find, like Express, Eddie Bauer, GameStop and Justice. There are also plenty of popular dining options, such as Chipotle and Noodles & Company.
In Northwestern Iowa, folks indulge in retail therapy at Southern Hills Mall in Sioux City. Check out a movie at the mall’s AMC Theaters, have a bite and a beverage at Iron Hill Bar & Grill, then shop until your heart’s content at retailers like Aeropostale, Barnes & Noble or Foot Locker.
In Southwest Iowa, Council Bluffs’ Metro Crossing is the place to get your shopping on. The mall is anchored by popular big-box retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, T.J. Maxx and Petsmart. You’ll also find go-to dining destinations such as Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse.
Once known as Sycmore Mall, the Iowa City Marketplace is one of the more venerable shopping centers in Eastern Iowa. You’ll find find both local and national retailers that include stores like Hobby Corner, Petland and Panera Bread. There’s also a movie theater located within the Marketplace.
If outlet shopping is your bag, Outlets of Des Moines should be your destination. The Altoona shopping center has dozens of outlets from many of your favorite retailers and apparel makers, like Converse, Polo-Ralph Lauren, GNC and American Eagle. The center also has plenty of dining options so you can keep up your energy on your shopping excursion.
If you’re having a retail emergency in the Quad Cities, NorthPark Mall, in Davenport, has the cure. Grab a drink from Bubble Tea to walk with, then see what’s new at stores like Chico’s, Cotopaxi, Hollister, Zumiez or Dillard’s. A quick stop at Taco John’s will keep you going all day.
For folks in Northeast Iowa, Crossroads Mall in Waterloo is a top choice among shopping destinations. With a wide selection of retailers, ranging from Buckle and Bath & Body Works to Victoria’s Secret and Zales, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re shopping for. Pop into Applebee’s for snacks and drinks while you’re at the mall.
Des Moines’ Merle Hay Mall is a classic shopping center in Iowa’s capital city. Home to more than 90 businesses, your shopping options include retailers like Journeys, Maurice’s, Rue 21 and Old Navy. There are also dining options like Flix Brewhouse and fun to be had at Merle Hay Bowling Lanes.