Automotive in Iowa

The first Tuffy Auto Service Center touched down in Detroit in 1970. The shop flourished, and today it has extensions in 15 states. Its ASE-certified technicians tend to all manner of repairs and maintenance services, from basic tire rotations and oil changes to more complex tasks, such as getting all the gummy bears out of the cassette deck. Between visits, car owners can consult Tuffy's list of car-care tips, which includes advice on how to stay on top of seasonal musts and how to keep an ear out for early signs of trouble.

Bill Graham founded the first Graham Tire location in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in 1951, a time before dashboards blinked with digital readouts or engines buzzed with microchip brains. As cars have progressed, Graham Tire has kept pace. Still overseen by the Graham family, the current 22 locations employ ASE-certified mechanics who mend and maintain cars, trucks, SUVs, and farm equipment. Computerized engine analysis reveals rides’ performance levels and any problems, allowing the technicians to efficiently diagnose trouble without resorting to good mechanic, bad mechanic interrogations.

At Mint Auto Detail, mobile-detailing teams travel to homes and businesses to vacuum and steam clean car cabins, hand wax auto bodies, and shine wheel wells. Techs can also pick up rides to ensure that customers without necessary electrical or water hookups will see their vehicle retrieved and returned with its coat shiny, its leather seats conditioned, and its homework done. In addition to treating interiors and exteriors to a thorough, checklist of services, technicians at Mint Auto Detailing attack special tasks such as pet odor and rust and paint removal.

The technicians at A+ Automotive correct misaligned tires and conduct thorough automotive inspections to ensure vehicles remain in pristine shape. During the approximately one-hour alignment and inspection, the shop's auto experts adjust the camber, caster, and toe of all four wheels, improving the perambulator's steering and ballroom-dancing abilities. After putting ball joints back on the straight and narrow, a 27-point inspection determines whether other maladies lurk within the car's crannies, safeguarding vehicles from unforeseen muffler mishaps or bouts of mechanical meningitis. Click here to check the shop's hours and a list of makes serviced for the smoothest, speediest experience.

During galaxy bowling, Cadillac Lanes turns futuristic with the help of a space-age-evoking light and sound show. Even under the glow of traditional lighting, the alley brims with modern technology, such as automatic scoring and retractable bumpers. A trove of lightweight to heavy bowling balls allows players of all muscle masses to scatter pins without straining their muscles. In between 10-frame games, patrons can maneuver joysticks in the arcade or refuel at the snack bar. The venue also welcomes birthday celebrations with party packages complete with decorations that create a joyful atmosphere, rather than celebrating with impromptu bowling-ball confetti.:m]]

Ames British Foods was originally started to sate the comfort-food cravings of Iowa State’s expats, but it didn't take much time for owner Marcus to discover he had a native fan base as well. His new restaurant—The Chip Shop—serves up traditional fare from across the pond in a friendly setting that encourages relaxing over a plate of fish ’n’ chips or starting a game of cribbage. Customers can also shop Ames British Foods in downtown Ames for imported British biscuits, chocolate, and other UK-leaning groceries, and enjoy a free cup of tea offered by a friendly staff member or that overly friendly regular customer.