Great news for the folks in the Des Moines area. 
Another place for a stretch stop on my way to Minnesota! 
Quote:
Altoona, IADecember 18, 2007–Bass Pro Shops, Americas most popular outdoor store, continues its retail growth with the announcement it will open a destination outdoor superstore in Altoona, Iowa just north of Des Moines. The store, which will be over 3 acres in size, will be the signature anchor for a large retail center to be located at the southeast corner of the I-80 and Hwy 65 by-pass.
There is no other retailer in America like Bass Pro Shops, stated Mayor Tim Burget. The addition of Bass Pro Shops will solidify Altoona as the Entertainment Capitol of Iowa , joining with Prairie Meadows Race Track and Casino, and Adventurelands of America amusement park,
Bass Pro Shops stores are a combination of museum, art gallery, aquarium, outdoor education, conservation and entertainment. Each store is uniquely themed to the region in which they are located so that no two stores are alike.
We are excited about bringing our second Bass Pro Shops store to the state of Iowa, said Bass Pro Shops President Jim Hagale. This store, will be dedicated to the families and visitors who enjoy the many outdoor traditions, and the great sporting heritage of the region.
The Altoona store will offer outdoor enthusiasts 3 ﾽ football fields of shopping excitement with the areas largest selection of equipment and clothing for hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, camping, outdoor cooking and more. A gift and nature center will also serve up a wide variety of outdoor-related items from lamps and dishes to bird feeders and furniture.
An expansive boat showroom will feature Tracker, Nitro, Mako and SeaCraft boats built by Tracker Marine Group–the worlds largest manufacturer of fishing boats. A boat service center will also be available.
Unique exterior and interior motifs have branded Bass Pro Shops as visually appealing, high quality outdoor stores. The outdoors is brought indoors with massive log and rock work, large aquariums and water features stocked with native fish species, along with an extensive collection of museum quality fish and wildlife exhibits. Historic photos, artifacts, and memorabilia will pay tribute to Iowas great outdoors heritage.
Award-winning in their concept and design, Bass Pro Shops retail stores are rated as top tourist destinations. Over 90 million people visit their stores annually. Widely recognized for their efforts in conservation and outdoor education, Bass Pro Shops stores also offer Outdoor Skills Workshops for adults, kids and families.
Bass Pro Shops, known for hiring associates that have a passion for the outdoors, is expected to employ approximately 300 people, many of whom will come from the local region.