Locals and visitors gather in crowds to shop, dine and have fun in the Loop, a six-block area in the center of St. Louis filled with dozens of businesses. This historic landmark in the university area is convenient to Lambert International Airport, Forest Park, MetroLink, the Washington University and more. Parking space is plentiful for those planning on shopping or staying in the area awhile. Shop at places like Tantrum and Faru Gallery, dine at Blueberry Hill or the Melting Pot. Or take in a movie at the Tivoli Theater.
Plaza Frontenac is home to some of St. Louis' best clothing stores, with everything from business and casual attire to the finest name-brand suits on hand. Shops include Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue, plus a number of men's and women's apparel stores and household goods stores. Plaza Frontenac has two levels, all-wood flooring and a lounge area with leather chairs. After shopping, you can enjoy an independent film at the movie theater.
West County Center is in a great location in the middle of West County, but it is not as large as other malls in St. Louis. There are two department stores, Famous Barr and JCPenney, along with a children's museum, six restaurants and more than 50 specialty stores. This mall is popular with families and kids. There are areas in which to sit and lounge on benches in the center of the mall and next to fountains.
The South County Antique Mall, a vast display of collectibles and antiques housed in an old Kroger supermarket building, is a place where visitors can lose themselves for hours. Shoppers and browsers are met with an almost incomprehensible amount of goods, which fill some 300 booths and 400 showcases. You will find everything you, your parents, your grandparents and probably a couple more generations all grew up with, from old inkwells right on up through those ever-present Beanie Babies. You will also encounter jewelry, clothes, furniture, old political buttons, button-top shoes, sleds, soda bottles and about 10,000 other categories you cannot even imagine.
This place is the fortune of the vintage clothes shopper. Thumbing through the racks, one can quickly and effortlessly find a one-of-a-kind classic that will be the wistful envy of fashion forward friends. The staff is undoubtedly thrilled about the clean, well-preserved, high-quality treasures they've collected, and fancy sharing that joy with customers. The Vintage Haberdashery is often a first stop for costume party-goers, but many come through to inspect the aisles for casual period pieces for everyday use. Whether shopping for an event, or just strolling through the neighborhood, this trip down memory runway is bound to spark conversation.
If you've ever wanted to know what goes into a marinade or spice rub, Penzy's Spices may be able to help. With an inventory of over 100 different spices and spice mixes, an online store that carries everything the Maplewood store doesn't have on hand, a patented line of spices and herbs, and a staff that knows everything spice, there is no way that flavor you crave can't be identified. For those who are getting into the culinary arts, Penzy's is a great place to stop for ideas and recommendations. For those who are well seasoned in the craft, this shop, though quaint, conjures sentiments that are tantamount to those of a child in a giant penny candy warehouse. -Cathryn D. Blue
Owned by brothers Tim and John Intaglia, this shop is dedicated to providing quality customer care and offering a great selection covering the hottest trends in furniture. They specialize in classic design that brings together comfort and beauty, all at affordable prices. Beyond the expected sofas, chairs and tables, you'll discover decorative accessories, entertainment units, paintings, prints, rugs, and a great selection of dinnerware.
Since 1987, Clemens Violins, Violas, and Violoncellos has emerged as a leader in crafting and restoring the beauty of stringed instruments. Located near Washington University in the Clayton district, Clemens is a go-to place for musicians and students of music. Julia, the professional and skilled restorer, has been working with instruments for several years. It is usually best to call ahead for a quote and make an appointment if a specific restoration or instrument design project is in mind. However, if just browsing or curious about the crafting of violins, violas, violoncellos, and viols, the staff would be happy to have you. - Cathryn D. Blue
Anyone who has ever gotten customized framing for their favorite photograph, piece of art, newspaper clipping or stamp collection understands how much of a difference a frame makes. The Great Frame Up, located in Clayton, offers unique custom framing for all those old Michael Jackson posters and Van Gogh prints on-site. The frames offered are not limited to the traditional wooden rectangles with silver or gold trim. Textures, colors, and even shapes beyond the norm will fit the tastes of even the most eccentric art connoisseur. From round to 3-dimensional, the staff will accept any challenge and send you on your way with a masterpiece. - Cathryn D. Blue
Jon’s Pipe Shop, located in busy downtown Clayton, has the largest selection of premium cigars, pipes, tobaccos, and accessories in the area. Founded in the 1920s, Jon’s has established itself as a haven for the persecuted smoker. Quality, value, and customer satisfaction are top priorities. These tobacconists really know their stuff; they can supply any tobacco-related information in up to 3 languages: Spanish, French and German.The atmosphere, which includes a smoking lounge fully equipped with the day's paper, is relaxing and accommodating. Stop by Jon’s for a lesson in fine smokes or a leisurely sit-down with a pipe. - Cathryn D. Blue
Hammond's is a rare find. A charming shop on Cherokee Street, it specializes in books so old, you don't get them in snazzy bookstores no more. Art, culinary, drama, and fiction items share space with over 100,000 out-of-print books. What's more, if you think you don't need that library at home, get your copies here. Also check out the online music store to find music from oldies to electronica.
Upon entry, it becomes clear that West End Gallery is not your ordinary antique store. Some items date as far back as the 16th century including secretaries, dining tables, art work, jewelry, silverware and knickknacks. However, more recent precious and hard-to-find items from the 1940s through the 70s are sprinkled throughout the store. The setup mimics that of a museum. Each item is displayed in the context that compliments the overall motif, with each room displaying items of a different period or type of style. Don't forget to check out the American, African, and Asian art on the second level. Whether planning to purchase or just to spend some time, this gallery is worth the stop. - Cathryn D. Blue