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.
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.
Bella James is popular among the beautiful ladies of San Jose for their elegant dresses and pretty shoes. Every piece of accessories or clothing item on their rack is an immaculate juxtaposition of contemporary styles woven into conventional textures and fabric. Dresses, tops, skirts, pants try anything here, they have got it all right. This is the place to find unique pieces that you will otherwise not find any place else. The employees here are very friendly; trust them on their opinions like you would trust a good friend. At Bella James you will find clothes that you will actually wear and not just hang inside your closet.
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.
Beck's Shoes has quite a few outlets in the city of San Jose. This is a family operated shoe store, selling variety of styles of shoes for men as well as women. The staff here is very helpful, not only will they go out of their way to make sure you buy the right size of shoe but they have a lot of knowledge about feet in general. The sales team is good at their job; so be sure to leave the place with a lot of shoes and lot less money in your wallet. But whatever you pick up here is definitely worth it. Make sure to buy their inserts; these are known to really ease out pressure on your feet and provide comfort.
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.
If you are a passionate skateboarder looking for a cool skateboard that will complement your personality head to Circle-A; San Jose's local skateboard shop. Here, the glass architecture of the store and its impressive displays are bound to beckon you in. The owner is super friendly, if you have got a problem he is sure to solve it. All the skateboards here are funky, vibrant and each one is unique. The wheels and bearings are of impeccable quality. The place is also a great spot if you wish to revamp your old board, walk in and you will walk out with a smooth make over of your skateboard. The place also sells a plethora of accessories and Circle-A is a heaven for any sneaker fan.
If you're tired of shopping for the usual American foods at your usual supermarket, then this store sure is a big treat. Stocking up on European food products not only from the usual suspects such as France and England, but also Poland, Germany and even Eastern European countries such as Russia and Ukraine, in addition to Middle Eastern and Greek influences, this place is akin to a happening party. Although the store is small, one can find plenty of jams and jellies, pita bread, Greek yogurt, hummus, feta cheese varieties, gelato, German cookies and exotic chocolates at this hidden gem.
Recycle Bookstore is the biggest, and one of the best, used book stores in San Jose. It has wide aisles, which makes it perfect for browsing. There are many rooms where you can sift through extensive selections of fiction, history, mystery, horror, true crime, religion, westerns, occult, used videos and regional materials. No matter what your genre, Recycle Bookstore is great for buying or selling books.