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.
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.
What may be the world's largest flea market (that is the claim, anyway) covers nearly 120 acres (48.56 hectares) and offers lots of parking space. Browse goods from more than 2,000 sellers, some commercial, some private. Everything is here: arts and crafts, produce, clothing, furniture, tires, bicycles, music, electronics, collectibles, shops, markets, barbecues or knick-knacks. It is a great destination for the bargain hunter.
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 store is a lot of fun for children as well as adults wishing to relive their childhood, at least for some moments. It's located in downtown Willow Glen, a charming area of San Jose, across the street from an elementary school, so it's common to see children and teachers lounging about. It is mainly a bookstore, carrying hundreds of classic and contemporary titles for ages that range from newborn to preteen years. However, it also sells educational gifts, toys, games and teaching supplies. Independent and dedicated, this shops stocks goods that are well selected and the atmosphere is also very welcoming.
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.
Dirt biking or ATV riding along dusty trails is a favorite pastime here, and to take care of all accessories related to these adventure sports, head-over to MotoMart at Carnegie. Be it spare parts, safety gear, cool apparel, or just some quick meal and drinks to take on the go, you can find it all under one roof.