The Hobby Shop

S 3 months ago

I checked this store out and was astonished by his inventory. Such an excellent selection and great value for the price. Must go to if you are interested in trains. Lots of models as well. Check them out, you won’t regret it.

Calvin Edwards 8 months ago

A very aesthetic and well-designed hobby shop with a unique atmosphere. It offers great flashbacks and nostalgia, especially for train and plane enthusiasts, making the experience even more enjoyable. The selection is impressive and well organized, with plenty of options for different hobbies. It’s a great place to explore, browse, and appreciate detailed craftsmanship in a welcoming environment.

Josh Edwards 8 months ago

The Hobby Shop in downtown Ames is a total throwback, in the best way. A unique store packed with a little bit of everything, it’s a must-stop for real train and car enthusiasts who love detail and nostalgia.

Chris Rhiner 9 months ago

This is where I bought the first airplane model I paid for with my own money, in 1971. There have been several owners over the years, but Mike Templeton is the most fun! Mike retired from the UPRR and his retirement plan was to buy a hobby shop. THIS hobby shop! I arrived in company with my sweetie and Don Barry, 50 years to the day of my first purchase, hoping to buy the same airplane model from Mike. Alas, no Monogram B-25H Mitchell "Sh-Boom" kit could be found, but it was still a fine visit. This is what a hobby shop is. Display case up forward, bell on the door. A wooden floor that creaks, so Mike can tell where you are. Freedom to browse at leisure, and huge selection of any kind of model kit, train set or accessory, vintage toy, book, paint or supply you could wish for. Mike also buys collections from the families of model makers that have passed away, so the rare, vintage or unusual kit may very well be in his hands. I shudder to think what the basement might look like! We stop by anytime we are in my old home town.

Blue 6 years ago

What a fantastic place. We came here on a bit of a whim. We had been driving through the historic downtown of Ames, mostly just for a nice alternative to the highway as we passed through to Boone. I spotted this little shop and felt like we needed to visit, so we did, and I am so glad we did. The shop is filled with all manner of hobby supplies and kits, from model planes to trains to unique wooden mechanical kits. The owner approached us soon after we arrived. He was very friendly and helpful, and really knew his shop and his trade. He has worked with many/most of the kits in his shop, and was able to speak directly to them as such. We enjoyed the experience, and ended up purchasing several of the wooden kits, which were a ton of fun to put together later. Definitely worth a visit for anyone who is creatively inclined. 👍