Uptown Confections & Curiosities — Local services in Ankeny

This place is just a few blocks from our house and we love it! You'll receive very friendly and personable service every single time. The candy selection is awesome, to say the least. From retro candies, to caramels, to dark chocolate with sea salt candy by the piece, and just about anything else you could want, it's so cool; After you spend forever in the front part of the store, head to the back. There you'll see humorous political bobbleheads, small batch bags of Iowa made popcorn (the jalapeño and cheddar is killer), toys for the kiddos, and gifts for literally anyone you know. This little place has so many things for its size. The prices are VERY good, for those on a budget, too. Another neat thing is the seasonal theme and items in the front of the store and in the window. Right now it's a 4th of July theme, and Halloween will bring another, and so on. Yes, they are only open three days of the week. But, from Thursday through Saturday, I'm sure you can find the time to swing by, it'll be totally worth it. Just be prepared to become a regular visitor. The owner is really one cool guy and this place is worth...

I would give zero stars if I could. Walked in with my service dog. Owner muttered about the dog. The other person behind the counter told him it was a service dog. Owner said something about service dogs and food not mixing. I said “We’ll leave then.” And then turned back around and told him that according to the Americans with Disabilities Act, I have the right to be there with a service dog. Owner said I could stay but something about the food inspector being unhappy with service dogs. And said it in a snarky tone that told me I was not welcome there. The other person with me explained that the food inspector should know better, because service dogs are allowed in establishments that sell food. I said I wasn’t staying because of how I was being treated and left. Don’t let their pride merch fool you — this business...

One of my favorite places in Ankeny, this is my go to stop for gifts and seasonal/holiday treats. They have a wide variety of rotated candies and treats for various holidays throughout the year, as well as a standard lineup of chocolates, gummies, taffy, novelty and retro/nostalgic candies, subversive and novelty gifts, Harry Potter and various fandom merch, tons of PEZ dispensers, puzzles, fidgets, stickers, etc.! There is so much variety and you can find something for everyone. The owners are fantastic people and everyone...