Top Rated Shopping in Albequerque

The narrow aisles and hodgepodge stacks of used books in this store may seem cluttered but if you are looking for a particular title, author or subject, the owner can walk you straight to it. The store has been in the same location across from the University of New Mexico for over 30 years and regular customers bring in boxes of books to trade for others. The shop has acquired hundreds of collectors' books and some valuable antiques.

Have a blast here putting together and enhancing your own distinctive style. Buffalo Exchange is a bright store, great for browsing through the shelves, walls and cases full of eclectic merchandise where customers can buy, sell and trade goods. Old Route 66 is the perfect location for this clean and friendly emporium. Vintage clothing and foot wear for men, women and children is available. You can get clogs and Beatle boots to high top sneakers, waffle-stompers and smart wing-tips. Soaps, incense, candles, games and gadgets fill the storefront tables in addition to chic, inexpensive jewelry.

Feeling creatively inspired by the beautiful southwestern landscapes? Artisan Santa Fe Art Supplies can put all the materials you need at your fingertips. Indeed, the Santa Fe, Albuquerque and Taos-based store, operational since 1975, goes so far as to call itself “The Art Supply Source of the Southwest”. The store's owners strive to be a community resource as well, offering an e-newsletter, links to artists' web pages and a community board online, and demos, expos and workshops in-store. You can even submit a request for a demo to be organized featuring a particular material or method in which you have an interest. - Pip Lustgarten

Founded by Robin Scala, the Fragrant Leaf is a purveyor of artisanal loose-leaf teas and tea accessories from Asia. Scala, who is an Albuquerque resident has lived in China and Taiwan and has traveled extensively to different parts of Asia to source artisan-crafted teas and tea ware. They offer more than 50 types of authentic loose-leaf teas and sell their products through their Albuquerque tea boutique and also online through their website. They also host a variety of events at their boutique such as tea tastings, classes and demonstrations of Asian tea ceremonies. Visitors can buy loose-leaf tea, teapots, teacups, tea accessories or gifts of their choice or simply sip on and try a variety of tea from Asia.

Fay Abrams founded her first crafts gallery in Old Town in 1974 as a showcase for local artists with a flair for taking ideas and materials far beyond the confines of standard application. They have shaped, forged, hammered and woven stone, glass, wood, fabric, clay, and other materials into objects that are as beautiful and sometimes provocative; as they are one-of-a-kind. Owners Liz Dineen and Jennifer Rohrig will answer your questions about each object with the kind of knowledge, pride and enthusiasm that is normally reserved for a parent discussing her child.

Located on Central Avenue just east of the University of New Mexico, Nob Hill Business Association was established on Route 66 in the 1950s. In the 1980s, members of the neighborhoods combined forces to refurbish and reclaim this once run-down area. It is now popular among shoppers with its upscale and trendy stores and restaurants. Here you can dine at Scalo, then admire and purchase some fine jewelry.