Show of Hands, located along Antique Row in Center City Philadelphia, carries an impressive and unique collection of contemporary crafts and jewelry. These pieces are one-of-a-kind and limited editions by juried professional artisans. Original craft works include glass, ceramic, metal, and textiles. Special Craft Exhibits on a monthly basis.

Mums and Pops Confectionery is a family owned, near century old purveyor of sweetness. Mums and Pops have been producing high quality chocolates from Central Pennsylvania since 1903 for all occasions and holidays. Marked by Old English charm, exquisite packaging is the hallmark here, from the tiniest sampler box to the largest gift basket. An assortment of English tea accessories including pots and mugs are available for purchase. Victorian gifts and tree trims for Christmas time are house specialties.

The bare, warehouse-like interiors of Bookspace holds a treasure for any book or art lover. Located in Northern Liberties, this bookstore-cum-event-space is a haven for those who love the written word, boasting a collection of about 100,000 books, some acquired through donations. If you are not interested in reading, however, Bookspace is still a must-visit, because besides being a storehouse of books, the place also is a venue for concerts, performances, art exhibitions, and also chess nights. Do call to know more.

An open space that has been transformed into the quintessential city hangout, the Piazza at Schmidts is the masterpiece of the architectural firm Tower Investments Inc, built as a part of a mega urban renewal project in the city. As the name suggests, this square has been designed after Rome's piazzas, but the design of the buildings surrounding the square are of original design. Besides being home to several shops, designer stores, restaurants, and bars, the Piazza at Schmidts also boasts a stage that hosts several concerts and other events. See the website to know more.

Closet Fever, located in the up-and-coming Northern Liberties section, is similar to an upscale store found in the trendy SoHo district of New York City. There's a special rack of bikinis shipped straight from Brazil in addition to garments from local Philly designers, vintage dresses, jewelry, purses, and shoes. The upbeat, friendly staff makes customers feel right at home. The back of the store features a full salon specializing in color and cuts, make-up, and waxing that was recently featured in Allure magazine.

Do you need innovative glass lampshades for your home? Step into this studio, where they create magic with glass. There are bowls, vases, jewelery and simple objects of art on display. Moreover, classes are held for those interested in the making process. Interested students can take lessons in different techniques like pate de verre and slumping. Supplies can be hired, and you can rent the studio itself too. Call for further information.

This sporting goods superstore has 8 locations in the Philadelphia area. Equipment, apparel and footwear are sold for almost every athletic and recreational interest that can be imagined. A massive selection of soccer balls, golf clubs, tennis rackets and running gear appeal to those with an active lifestyle. The outdoors man of the family can peruse the rods and guns in the hunting and fishing section.

Located in the heart of Mayfair's commercial district, this family-owned business has served Northeast Philly and beyond for generations. From CDs to vinyl, instruments to sheet music, audio equipment to band T-shirts-if it has to do with music, Pat's probably has it. And if not, the friendly staff will be happy to order it for you. Its latest location at the corner of Frankford and Cottman Avenues even has rooms in the back for private music lessons. Even if you are just passing through town, be sure to check out this rare treasure of a store. - Shaheen J. Dibai

If the very mention of Asia brings cultural imagery to your mind, then Ruka is a must-visit. The little boutique on 19th street has an excellent collection of Asian memorabilia from home decor and clothes to statues and even incense. The owner sources the products during her Asian sojourns, so you can be assured that nothing here is run-of-the mill. This one's for the collectors.

For those of you who cannot do without a little bit of art in everything, Art Star is the perfect find. From apparel and homeware to accessories and toys, there's a definitive arty theme about each one of the pieces. It's not surprising though, as most of them are by budding designers and artists, which also means that what you see is unique. Apart from this, it also functions as a lovingly-curated art gallery.