Named after David McPhail's children's book, this extraordinary toy store has been a Boston institution for decades. Unusual toys of all kinds and brands are found amongst the shelves at this Cambridge location. Interactive games, books and toys are specialties, providing fun and education for children. Plays, storyteller hours and puppet theater are also part of the store's curriculum. Perks include free shipping, gift wrapping and a frequent-buyer card. See website for weekly in-store Story Time schedule, events calendar, online shopping and other regional locations.

A block outside of Harvard Square sits one of the only antiquarian booksellers in the city. You might not expect much inventory from a store, which specializes in volumes published before 1700, but they have built an impressive collection from private estates and other sources. They take exquisite care of their stock, refurbishing some and rebinding others. Highlights include an ancient copy of the Canterbury Tales.

This music and collectibles store features an astounding number of CDs and records, and specializes in rare music you might have thought lost forever. Be sure to check out their selection of band lunch boxes, dolls, T-shirts and other music-related novelties. They pay top dollar for CDs and vinyl, and they will also consider purchasing entire collections.

Cruise the aisles of this small specialty market for the best in gourmet foods and all the little things expert chefs use to stock their kitchens. Imported cheeses, bakery goods, meats and chocolates are just a few items one might expect to find. Prosciutto, gourmet and herb-flavored olive oil, vinegar, biscotti, French brie, lentils and Sicilian sea salt are all perfect for special occasions and entertaining. These are not your average supermarket brands either for even the domestically produced items are of excellent quality. This is also the perfect place to buy a custom-made gift basket.

Though this store is somewhat cluttered, it is still one of the finest places in Harvard Square to look through first editions in search of that hidden treasure. Most titles are literary works but there is also a fine selection of art criticism. Ask the helpful staff if you are in search of a specific title or genre,but for most, the search is more than half the fun.

Together with Nini's Corner, Inc., across the way, this store stocks a huge assortment of periodicals and newspapers from all over the world. Find the latest local news from such places as Germany, Egypt, Japan, Moscow and Tel Aviv. It has one of the city's most comprehensive selection of magazines and journals, as well besides selling tickets to local shows and events. Moreover it is usually jammed with loyal patrons, so be prepared to share the tightly-packed space.

This suit store is perfect for the traditional if not quite conservative male who wants to look crisp and proper. You'll find excellent tailoring, fitting and customer service at this Harvard Square fixture where prices for a decent suit will range from $400 to $1,000. A loyal patronage of professors, young professionals, administrators and business types frequent this cozy shop. Sleek shirt lines, two button suit coats and understated silk ties dominate the scene.

Upholding its motto of timeless fashions for women, Looks does indeed have a selection of clothes spanning many decades. It offers new clothes from contemporary designers as well as second-hand clothing from years past. All items are in absolutely pristine condition and look as good as the day they were made. Along with a fantastic assortment of dresses and skirts, the shop's collection of silk blouses is also noteworthy.

The Games People Play has more games than you can imagine. Find everything from traditional chess, checkers and Scrabble to board games, three-dimensional puzzles, mental quizzes and challenges, and trivia and role-playing games. Pick up a handmade chess set for your child or indulge in a Boston edition of Monopoly. On the other hand, perhaps you'd be just as content choosing from the store's selection of gigantic crossword puzzle books, dice, cards and game pieces.

These antiques from the French, Irish and English countrysides reflect the practical and hard-working nature of rural life in those countries. Clean, simple lines that do not sacrifice style will appeal to people interested in sturdy furniture without too much fluff. European Country Antiques's collection is superb, ranging from chairs and bureaus to dining room sets, armories, chests, credenzas and sideboards. Friendly staff and expert advice make this a great place to tastefully furnish any home.