US grocery store is among the world’s biggest, it’s ‘like being in a theme park’

AN American grocery store has established itself as one of the world’s biggest with unique amenities and features.

Visitors say the must-see location feels like being inside an amusement park with cool attractions.

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Dubbed the “Disneyworld of grocery stores” by Grocery Dive, Jungle Jim’s International Market sets itself apart from others in many ways.

SET THE SCENE

Upon stepping into the parking lot, you’re met with fake giraffes and elephants hanging out in a fenced-in courtyard, a pool, and a waterfall.

That’s not all foodies and shoppers see.

A monorail leads you to the store’s entrance, reminiscent of a theme park.

The chain business has two locations in Ohio — one in Fairfield and the other in Cincinnati.

The first location was founded in 1971 in Fairfield by James O. Bonaminio.

Both locations have more than 200,000 square feet of space individually and over 500,000 square feet combined.

Around every aisle are attention-grabbing attractions that add to the Jungle Jim’s aesthetic.

It’s not uncommon to see a singing lion dressed as Elvis, a giant swinging Campbell’s tomato soup can that sings, and an 822-pound block of cheese hanging from the ceiling, according to Food Republic.

That is exactly why Jungle Jim’s is a top place for Ohio travelers to visit.

GLOBAL OUTLOOK

What makes the franchise different is its worldwide perspective with a local feel.

Visitors can try fresh produce and gourmet food from all over the world.

More than 70 countries are represented in each store with tasty eats and unique drinks.

The International Foods section is divided into aisles dedicated to specific continents, countries, and regions.

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For example, there is one for the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and India.

If you’re a hot sauce fan and want to expand your tastebuds, there are over 1,500 to choose from, both domestic and international.

TAKE A TRIP

For $5 a person, there are also scheduled tours to enhance the experience with sampling and lessons about the origins of many items.

They are available only Monday to Friday and last one hour, so plan accordingly.

“Tour guides lead you on a fun-filled, informational, and entertaining safari through the wilds of Jungle Jim’s,” the site notes.

They also break into mini scavenger hunt groups for “a fun and educational team-building activity.”  

If paired with a tour, the overall cost of the experience increases to $8 per person.

The store is so big that they even have a map of it online to help shoppers make their way through.

Jungle Jim’s also hosts a weekly podcast with a new episode every Wednesday.

Host Mark Borison takes listeners on a “super safari” as he discusses not only food but also art and culture from around the world.

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