The Boulder Bookworm is one of the few non-chain bookstores in Boulder that can hold its own against the fantastic Boulder Bookstore. Located just outside of downtown, the Bookworm specializes in used and rare books, with many first edition and autographed copies available for serious collectors. The small store is nevertheless very cozy and homey-feeling, with lots of towering cases and soft chairs and lamps for those wishing to check out their books before buying them. The Boulder Bookworm is a lovely little hidden gem for anyone looking for a large book selection, including rare books, at affordable prices. -Sabrina Zirakzadeh

Visit Vickerey for an avant-garde collection of women's and men's apparel, accessories, products in haircare and beauty, and jewelry. Formerly only an online store, shoppers can now rummage through products like organic cotton jeans, Amalfi paper, yoga mats, hemp and bamboo clothing and aromatic spa products. Vickerey also has an array of creative gift choices.

Since the 1960s The North Face has been a well-known name of camping gear for outdoor gear. They specialize in backpacks, ultra-light tents and sleeping bags that withstand harsh temperatures. All the gear you find here has been designed keeping in mind the tough conditions involved in outdoor activities. Some of the sophisticated expedition gear available are insulated and waterproof jackets, performance shirts made from high-tech material, trail running shoes and water-resistant pants. A high level of quality is maintained in manufacturing the clothing. If you are going to be exploring the great outdoors, then, The North Face should be your first choice.

Talbots is a leading US retailer, cataloger and e-tailer of women's, men's and children's apparel, accessories and shoes. They offer a wide range of clothing like jackets, pants, dress shirts, sportswear, sweaters, ties and shoes for misses, women, kids and men, all under one roof! They also have a developed goods delivery system which can be tracked on their website. Talbots also offers a unique service called 'Style Search' wherein you can search and reserve an item on the Talbots store inventory right from their website and then look for its availability online in the store near you.

The Art Of The Flower has a special European flavor. The fresh blooms are brought into the shop from all over the world. The store specializes in wedding flowers, Greek Sororities, e everyday flowers for the office or business. You can also shop for Month of Flowers, wherein the store will deliver flowers every week for a month or more. Beautiful plants, stuffed animals, food baskets, hand made flower vases etc, make for perfect gifts. Free delivery of flowers is offered for delivery to the University campus and the hospital.

Meow Meow is a boutique located on a hill where they offer a great assortment of cards and artwork. You can buy gift items like clothing, jewelry and cards. There are also earrings, bracelets, picture frames and books on sale. There are gift items for all ages. The store is very popular among students and tourists who visit Boulder.

Formerly know as "The Pipefitter," this one-time head shop has leapt headlong into the 21st century. That's right, it's not just hippie outfits and '60s and '70s kitsch anymore. The Fitter now stocks the latest in surf 'n' skate wear and other boutique fashions. It has also made a name for itself as the region's foremost purveyor of flip flops. However, its psychedelic past has yet to completely fade away; it is consistently named "Best Pipe Shop" in Boulder Weekly's annual "Best of Boulder" issue.

This small market and deli serves the needs of the University Hill community with an ATM, food to go, coffee, sodas, bottled water, chips, candy, magazines and other basic convenience store necessities. The deli menu offers freshly made sandwiches, hot dogs, burgers and other fast food. It is open late on weekends for those requiring a midnight snack or beverage after a night on the town.

What would a true college town be without a good number of used CD stores? A local favorite for years, this is the place to go for that hard-to-find record, CD or tape at a great price. Featuring a variety of genres ranging from hip-hop to rock, the store has something for everyone. The knowledgeable staff is always eager to help you. The store is also a Ticketmaster outlet.

Since 1989, this store on the Hill has provided Boulder with University of Colorado clothing and souvenirs. Browse through a massive selection of T-shirts and sweatshirts, from infant to adult sizes, representing every University of Colorado sports team in different styles and colors. Other items include keychains, magnets, caps, mugs and jewelry. If you cannot make it to the store it offers convenient on-line shopping.