Kinokuniya Book Stores has a huge collection of Japanese language books, as well as comics, Japanese music CDs and computer software. You will also find a selection of Japanese children's books, magazines, newspapers and textbooks. The store also carries a fine range of English-language books about Japan, as well as books on Asian culture and business practices. A great place for all book lovers.

20Twenty in Ballard is a tiny shop/gallery definitely geared toward Seattle's young, urban hipster crowd. The walls of the shop are hung with installations by local artists, the works are very modern and abstract in nature. Also featured here are a few racks of vintage clothing that probably wouldn't suit the wardrobes of most people. You'll find clothes so out of fashion they can only be worn confidently by those who find them either ironic or avant garde; examples include pink sweaters with puff-painted kitties, fluorescent windbreakers, and acid washed, pleated jeans. 20Twenty is an interesting store to browse in, but only a must-see for a very specific demographic. - Katie Kinney

Clover Toys is a small toy shop dedicated to the simpler things in life. Here you won't find video games, electronics, or noise makers. Instead, you'll find toys that foster imagination, learning, and make-believe - toys of generations past. One area is lined with locally crafted wooden toys and blocks, while another boasts an impressive array of fairy princess garb. The thing that makes this store seem so magic and alive are the littlest customers engaging in play with the store's simple, no-batteries-required toys. Even if you don't have children, Clover is a great place to discover your inner child or pick up a gift for someone you love.

In Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, you'll find Damselfly - a tiny boutique jam-packed with adorable clothing, accessories, and gifts. The clothes are classic, with modern twists - think pea coats in unexpected colors and menswear vests with feminine embellishments. Damselfly's selection runs the gamut from cute jumpers and high-waisted skirts to trendy leggings and graphic tees. They also offer a selection of the cutest baby gifts: soft blankets, witty bibs, and leather booties. The icing on the cake at Damselfly is that the prices are ridiculously reasonable. Winter coats for under $100, dresses less than $50, and tons of gifts and accessories for under $15. - Katie Kinney

Planning your next space vacation? Head over to Seattle, WA USA, Earth, Sol, Via Lactea where Greenwood Space Travel Supply Co. has exactly what you are looking for. Whether you are looking for the latest ray gun, planning to stock up on space ice cream, or wanting to adopt a space puppy, you will find all these items here. You will also find a range of books published written by the children helped by the nonprofit which the Space Travel Supply Co. supports. In fact, the entire store is merely a front for 826 Seattle, part of an organization started by Dave Eggers to provide free creative writing help and tutoring to all children 6-18. Let Greenwood Space Travel Supply Co. fuel your imagination and the education of kids from all around the Seattle area.

Seattle's largest florist has more to offer than only flowers. There are gourmet chocolates, specialty toys, tropical plants and other unique gift ideas for corporate as well as personal purpose. The packages and flower arrangements are exquisitely presented. Delivery services are offered to domestic and international destinations. Ballard Blossom is a family-run business that can add that special charm to any event with fresh flower decorations.

Another shopping haunt on Ballard Avenue, this early 20th century European style gift store provides you specialty products in the perfect ambience. Whether you are for the modern or vintage, this shop provides something for all tastes. There are also imported teas, hand made paper, candles and body care products. A great place to shop for gifts, as long as you are oblivious to rude service.

Re-soul spells out what shoes stand for-style and comfort. Not only can you shop here but also unwind with music and quality books. There is a wide range of comfortable and durable footwear for both men and women. And if you keep trailing in, you will find a range of jewelry and other artwork on display. Check out their website to get a glimpse of what they offer.

Renowned artist, Curtis Steiner allows us to buy his work at this neighborhood store. Come here to find rare and exquisite articles. From hand-painted images to hand crafted cards, you might just come across a perfect gift for that someone special. Bling lovers can pick up something from the jewelry collection. They also have some vintage articles-a delightful place indeed!

For more than 22 years (and through three owners), this bookstore has been delighting parents and children alike with its wonderful collection of hand-picked books. For children there are non-fiction, biography and poetry books. For adults there are books on parenting and about children, plus general-interest books. But for children and adults, the emphasis here is on literature. The shop regularly invites school groups to meet authors for readings and workshops.