Top Rated Shopping in St. Louis

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.

An old neighborhood shopping district on the city's South Side, Cherokee Street found a new calling years ago when it became a congregating place for small antique dealers. It is still doing well today, attracting antiques-seekers of all kinds, whether they are looking for old jewelry, furniture, books, architectural antiques, signs or just plain old junk. Five blocks of stores await visitors, and most are open every day. Homemaker Antiques and Hammond's Books are among the highlights.

Holes in the wall like this one are some of the best places to find unique things. Economy Shop, located in the Cherokee Street business district, is aptly named. Relics of Mexican culture, music, clothing, beads and other random goods can be found here for cheap prices unheard of. From the outside, the store doesn't look like much, but the merchandise is top notch! Generally, Economy Shop is patronized by people in the Cherokee Street community and has remained a secret to the majority of St. Louisans for several years. However, upon entry, people discover what they've been missing. The staff is friendly and enjoys having lively conversations with patrons. Stop by to see what can be found. -Cathryn D. Blue

Floral design is Botanical Design Studio's specialty, and uniqueness is their claim to fame. Upon entry, Botanicals Design studio has the appearance of an artist's workspace, complete with raw materials on the shelves, and desks covered with flower bits. However, the staff encourages customers to look around behind desks and in corners, enabling them to visualize the possibilities of their own floral creations. The vases and seasonal plants have artistic flair and the staff knows how to accent a bouquet to make it unique to their customers' desires and personalities. Bamboo, rocks, shells, even ceramic beads are only a few of the additions used to make their incredible displays. Prices for bouquets and arrangements are reasonable. Stop by for a consultation, a browse, or inspiration. -Cathryn D. Blue

This labyrinth of a bookstore offers one of the city's largest selections of used, rare and out of print books. Titles are arranged according to subject and cover everything from Feminist Theory to Japanese comics. The store also features a selection of used CDs and a variety of new volumes published by small presses. The staff is friendly and helpful and more than happy to make an informed recommendation. Popular subjects are housed on the first floor and an expansive basement holds tens of thousands more volumes. This is a great place to lose track of time and find your new favorite book.

The Medicine Shoppe, located in the South Grand Business District, is not a chain pharmacy. The charm offered here is generated from the community feel and the special products and services. Offering the latest in medical drugs and supplies, their inventory carries just about anything an individual needs for good health. The staff members easily build relationships with clientele. Obviously, they're knowledgeable about their craft. Though it is best to follow the doctor's advice, these pharmacists give a lot of first hand knowledge of certain products' effectiveness as well as generic and natural alternatives. -Cathryn D. Blue