Bell's Books is a family-owned bookstore in Palo Alto that's been passed down from generation to generation. Lot of people will tell you that this bookstore is a treasure. If you love reading or you are a book collector, this is definitely a place to go and stay for hours. Do not expect to find People Magazine or the latest New York Times best-seller; this store only sells used books. They offer an important selection of antique books and historic documents.
Downtown Palo Alto Farmer’s Market has a charm of its own. With bustling stands of vegetable vendors, meat sellers as well as food stalls and food trucks lined around the Gilman Street this is a place for meeting friends, stocking up groceries and strolling under the bright sun. Founded in 1981, this market is an important part of the city. Over 50 farmers from the neighboring cities bring their produce here for sale and the market has been a source of livelihood for all of them. From flowers, fruits, fresh herbs, dried fruits, nuts or honey you can shop to your hearts content. If you are hungry after a long shopping haul take a break and enjoy homemade crepes, pastries, pancakes and more at the food stalls.
This sophisticated mall is a magnet for discerning shoppers from all over the Bay Area, both North and South. Its European-style gardens and outdoor markets exude elegance, and the many cafes and bakeries offer welcoming spots to relax over a light snack and a cup of coffee, before resuming the shopping frenzy. It houses department stores like Bloomingdale's and Nordstrom along with the outlets of Apple, Banana Republic, Bath and Body Works, Hugo Boss, Gap, Janie and Jack, Louis Vuitton and Victoria's Secret among many others.
Located in the heart of downtown, the San Pedro Square Market is frequented by tourists and locals alike. This is the place to get, up-close and personal with the city; its people, food and all the enthusiasm. This is an adorable place to sit with a large glass of beer and watch the day go by. There are over 20 vendors who sell farm fresh produce, food as well as kitchen wares. The market is graced with restaurant, bars and cafes and once you walk through the market aromas of freshly brewed coffee and roasting meats are bound to feel your senses. Weekly entertainment such as shows and live performances are also hosted by the market. Here, you can explore and appreciate beautiful art created by local artists. The market is a great place to enjoy casual dining, shopping or even for a quiet stroll.
Oaklandish has become an Oakland institution since its inception as a renegade street art campaign in 2002. Starting with their iconic oak tree with roots logo, they eventually progressed to making apparel with this and other Oakland-centric designs and selling them from booths at street fairs and farmers markets. Booths gave way to a truck, and in 2011 they opened their own store front. The clothing has come a long way since their single logo, and now savvy shoppers can pick up shirts, sweatshirts, hats and more in a variety of clever, stylish and just plain cool colors, designs and logos.
Santana Row is an urban district, a magnet for shopping, dining, entertainment and accommodations in North San Jose. There is something for the entire family: 14 full service restaurants; twice-weekly farmers market; WiFi Internet access zones; Hotel Valencia, a world-class boutique hotel; outdoor cafes, public parks, gardens, plazas and courtyards; and a six screen CineArts complex. Developed by Federal Realty Investment Trust, Santana Row is a project that successfully combines the best elements of an urban plaza with the convenience and variety of a mall. It is a place like no other.
This is an adorable little boutique located at the Waverley Street inside an old Victorian style house. Everything in the store is eclectic and they have given a designer touch to your conventional house pins, chop sticks, plates, bowls, toasters, clocks, etc. The items on their racks are one-of-a-kind and become a great gift or conversation piece. Be it a baby shower or a house warming party of a friend pick up something at the Five Ten Gifts; the recipient will love the gift and will never want to return or exchange it.
Watch in awe as delicate, elegant and artistic pieces take shape from characterless blobs of molten glass at the Glass Hand Studio. This public access art studio often hosts open house events and glass-blowing demonstrations that are nothing short of mesmerizing. The studio itself is available on rent for use by artists who would like to work on projects of their own. Besides rental space and events, the Glass Hand Studio also offers custom glass blowing classes for individuals and groups of up to three participants, suitable for every skill level. The studio doubles up as an art gallery displaying hand made glass art for sale, and even accepts custom orders.
Blossom Hill Crafts was started to encourage the passion of pottery making in 1970 by Joanne Brice. Today, the pottery class that started with just 12 students has expanded into a well-equipped pottery studio with 200 students. The learning environment is fun, helps the learners in exploring their creative sides by making innovative potteries. You can buy these beautiful handcrafted items during their Spring Pottery & Art Sale featuring the amazing work of the instructors, students and fine artisans.
Come to Closet Factory and check out the custom designed closets, home-offices, pantries, wall units, laundry rooms and garages, built with design and functionality in mind. Just walk in with your requirements and let the expert staff take care of the rest. Different kinds of wood combined with the best of accessories are used to create these thoughtful designs. The elegantly designed units not only motivate you but also help you get more organized. So, how about an inspiring change at home?