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When you walk into A Four Foot Prune in Old City, you may see a little bit of everything. From animal sculptures and large art prints to papier-mache heads, color-coordinated clothes and home decor, owner Kevin Boyle said there is no shortage of offerings for everyone.
“We don’t bring in anything that we don’t want in our own house,” he said. “So I feel like when you walk into the store, there’s a level of joy because we’ve surrounded ourselves with the things we love.”
Boyle owns the shop with his partner, Mac Francis. He said the idea for the store was actually an accident.
“People would always come into my home, and my house looks exactly like the shop, and people always want to buy things,” he said. “And I was like, I could just start selling things on Instagram.”
As he continued to see more engagement, he eventually moved the business into its Old City home – where it has been for almost five years.
He said his store strives to offer unique price points – an element he said he felt was missing from other vintage stores in the area.
“A big part of A Four Foot Prune is making sure as many people feel welcome shopping as possible,” he said. “So sure, we have some $1,200 lamps, but we also make sure we have a bunch of $1 items too.”
Boyle’s “maximalist” haven is just one example of the city’s many novelty stores and hidden gems. From apparel stores to souvenir shops to wacky jewelry stores, it’s easy to find unique goods throughout the city.
But with lots of neighborhoods and spots to explore, the choices can get overwhelming.
We put together a list of Philly’s novelty shops – and while it’s not exhaustive, we hope it helps you find your next quirky shopping spot ahead of the fall and winter months.
A Four Foot Prune
This vintage store’s motto is “mostly vintage. All nonsense.” A trip to A Four Foot Prune means you may see anything from a collection of My Little Pony horses and Muppet merch to vintage TVs or fine, large art prints.
The Old City store has been around for almost five years, and has a wide selection of color-coordinated materials – all with different price points.
You can visit them at 142 N. 2nd St. They are open every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rocky Philly Souvenirs in Old City
This store, based on the famous movie, has just about every Rocky-based souvenir you could think of – from keychains and pencil sharpeners to Christmas ornaments, magnets and T-shirts.
Located right by Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, this is a great stop after some sightseeing and Philly monument tours.
You can visit them at 48 S. Third St. They are open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ulises Books
This “bookshop, project space and curatorial collective” focuses on uplifting artists – particularly those in the independent art space.
The shop features all kinds of books, many of which are “not widely distributed in the U.S.” Topics range from contemporary art and graphic design to curatorial practice, architecture and related fields. The space also has rotating artist exhibits and residencies as well as programming and events.
You can visit them at 1525 N. American St. They’re open Wednesday-Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
Avril 50
This store’s offerings range from international publications and postcards to gourmet coffee and tea and cigars and tobacco. Enjoy a drink or go to explore various magazines and newspapers from other parts of the world – like Japan and India.
You can visit them at 3406 Sansom St. They are open Monday-Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed Sundays.
Halloween Jewelry Store
This tucked-away jewelry store doesn’t do advertising – yet they have some of the coolest and most unique jewelry offerings in the city (my parents got their wedding rings here, so I may be a bit biased).
Find everything from pins, necklaces and statues to rings and earrings – with many unique cuts and a Halloween twist. The store can also customize certain pieces and repair jewelry.
To get into the store, you need to call during its open hours to get buzzed in. The space is open Tuesday- Friday from noon to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Little Seven House
This Chinatown gift shop has gifts ranging from Labubus and anime figures to plushies, keychains and Sanrio goods. Stop in to get a Boba tea keychain, a “miffy” phone stand or a Hello Kitty ball pen.
You can find the store at 933 Arch St., lower level. They’re open Sunday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Open House Store
This iconic Center City shop features everything from Gritty plushies and Philly sports players’ prayer candles to Philly sports children’s books, Eagles dish towels and hair clips and Philly sports trinket trays. You can go to their store in person or shop online.
They are at 107 S. 13th St. You can visit them Monday-Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
Hello World Modern Mercantile
This neighborhood gift shop has been around for over twenty years, and its offerings are varied!
From chocolate candy and Philly-themed onesies to leather bags, kimonos and scarves and greeting cards, this is the perfect spot to wander around or go to find a specific gift. Their website also offers online options and a look at the store’s inventory.
You can visit them at 3661 Walnut St. They are open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Philadelphia Independents
This independent boutique has apparel, artwork, home decor and much more – all from local, Philly artists!
Find a Liberty Bell shot glass or bottle opener, buy Eagles beanies or purchase a Philly “LOVE” necklace all at their Old City location.
You can visit them at 35 N. 3rd St. They are open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ali’s Wagon
This women-owned and operated store goes beyond just Philly-centered products – offering games, arts & crafts, home decor, stationery, candles & bath products, and more!
If you take a trip to the store, you could find a lobster buoy bottle stopper, a Fairmount neighborhood map, “KidDough” seasonal children’s play packs, cherry patch bag charms and more.
You can visit them at 2017 Fairmount Ave #19. They are open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Philadelphia Old City Souvenirs and Gift
Located in the Bourse Building, this highly-rated gift shop is the perfect stop for souvenirs after a day of exploring Old City monuments, shops and restaurants.
You can find everything from Liberty Bell figurines to magnets to Philly themed tote bags!
You can check them out at 305 Market St. They are open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Omoi Life Goods
This boutique’s name is inspired by the Japanese boutiques of the late 90s and 00s with their welcoming atmospheres and “evocative” names. The business has been around for over twenty years in multiple locations, but its home is now in Old City.
There’s lots to chose from here – from specialized pens and stationery to gloves, prints, notebooks and calendars. The store also hosts programming like pottery pop-ups and talks with local artists and makers.
You can visit them at 41 S. 3rd St. They are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
South Fellini
Tony Trov opened his “Philly lifestyle” storefront ten years ago. He says him and his co-owner, Johnny Zito, are two locals with an eye for what Philadelphians like and need.
“We make everything and we design everything,” he said. “We’re from South Philly, we’re Italian and everything that we make is kind of from the heart.”
Tony and Johnny began their careers making graphic novels for DC Entertainment and Image Comics. They started creating T-shirts as a side gig.
“At a certain point, we we were making more money making apparel than we were making on our books,” Tony said. “So, we kind of transitioned over to making more apparel.”
If you walk into their South Philly store, you’ll now find a mix of “Philly” things – from shirt with “Jawn” fashioned as the old Wawa logo to patches, pins, stickers and greeting cards.
Trov said one thing that makes their store unique is its authenticity. Trov and Zito make and design everything in the store.
“I think local artists, and especially locals, have an eye for these things and remember these things and can remember and point out some of these things that make Philadelphia unique,” he said. “Some of these Philly stores have such boring apparel and such boring attempts of trying to make themselves authentic. I think you really do need a local’s point of view to point out some of these things.”
You can visit South Fellini at 1507 E. Passyunk Avenue. They are open Wednesday- Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Occasionette
These set of “joyfully curated” and whimsical stores offer a wide range of gifts from candles and stuffed animals to kitchen goods, pillows, prints and more!
The store started with one location in 2013 and now has 3 – South Philly, Chestnut Hill and Collingswood, New Jersey. You can always shop online, too.
The South Philly store is located at 1704 East Passyunk Ave and is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Chestnut Hill store is located at 8521 Germantown Avenue and is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Collingswood store is at 724 Haddon Ave is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Asia Crafts
This family-owned and operated store has been around since 1991, and there is no shortage of trinkets to choose from in its store.
Find Sanrio and Pusheen toys, anime figurines, stickers, Dragon Ball Z merch and more! They also host in-person toy trade meetups and other programming throughout the year.
You can visit them at 136 N. 10th St. They are open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
Nice Things Hand Made LLC
This East Passyunk shop offers everything from Philly-themed prints to earrings, stickers, pillows art and more.
They’re also embedded in local events – hosting artists, live paintings and music during street fests!
You can visit them at 1731 East Passyunk Avenue. They are open Monday-Tuesday from 3-7 p.m., Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday-Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Tildie’s Toy Box
Michelle Gillen-Doobrajh was inspired to create her toy store in 2016 after seeing the kinds of toys her daughter was gifted throughout her childhood.
“A lot of people would gift us things that were very electronic that I didn’t feel like were helping her with her development at all,” she said. “Or it would always be pink and sparkly and frilly things and no one would ever think to give her a set of blocks or a truck or something different.”
From there, Tildie’s Toy Box was born. Her store is focused on engaging children through imagination, creativity and exploration, all through gender neutral toys.
“We don’t have specific toys based on gender,” she said. “We encourage all children to play with all different kinds of things and to learn all different types of skills. So that also influences the buying that I do for the store, trying to steer away from, if possible, gendered packaging to kind of make things more accessible or open to all kids.
And beyond that, Gillen-Doobrajh says you also won’t often find toys in the store with a battery in them.
“We’re still really focused on hands-on play for kids, adults and everything in between to really engage with the activity that they’re doing and be present,” she said. “Even if it’s a game that they’re playing with each other, we want to make sure that they’re really engaging with one another.”
She emphasized that the store is a place for all-ages – and that there are collectibles, giftables and games focused on teens and adult shoppers as well.
You can visit Tildie’s Toy Box at its Philly location at 1829 Passyunk Avenue. They are open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
They also have a Haddonfield, New Jersey location, which is located at 8 Kings Highway East. They are open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are closed on Mondays.
Anastacia’s Antiques
This unique antique store has a rotating assortment of “all types odd and mundane things” – which can include anything from antique brass cigar lighters and folding mirror to old books and paintings.
Philadelphians frequently reference this beloved spot – and discuss its uniqueness and one-of-a-kind artifacts.
You can visit the store at 617 Bainbridge St. They are open Thursday through Saturday from noon to 6:30 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
The Merrygold Shop and Wallflower Paper & Party
These side-by-side brick and mortar shops offer a wide variety of thoughtfully chosen items for gifts, parties and special events!
Find curated, seasonal decorations, a Philly mini print vending machine, a variety of puzzles and more on a trip to these stores!
You can check them out on 721-723 S. Fourth St.
Binding Agents
Philly’s only cookbook shop, this store specializes in contemporary and classic titles for everyone from experienced chefs, aspiring home cooks and everyone in between.
The shop also hosts lots of programming – including chef and baker Q&As, cookbook author presentations and cookbook clubs.
You can visit them at 908 Christian St. They are closed Mondays, and only open by appointment Tuesdays. They are open Wednesdays-Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Urban Princess Boutique
This boutique is more than just women’s clothes – it has plushies, wallets, incense, cards, jewelry, crystals and tarot and more from 50+ local and regional artists.
Head in and check out hand-printed journals, statement jewelry, bath and body products, unique gifts and more!
You can visit them at 620 S 4th St. They are open Mondays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
The DreamEerie
This store is what one Redditor called “Goth HomeGoods,” and its offerings don’t disappoint.
From coffins, taxidermy, art prints, pillows, tapestries, blankets and more, the products around the store are unique and rotating – but always with a gothic or “spooky nerd” twist.
You can visit them at 623 South St. They are open Monday-Tuesday from 1-7 p.m., Wednesday-Thursday 1-8 p.m., Friday 1-9 p.m., Saturday noon to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.
Mothership Toy Gallery
This quirky store and art gallery is home to Martian Toys – art toys that range from Disney princess figurines to Halloween and Miffy squishies.
A trip to Mothership means a chance to see custom toy exhibitions, resin figures and more. They also host events – like toy swaps and pop-up sales.
You can visit them at 314 E Girard Avenue. They are open Wednesday-Sunday of each week from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Happy DIY
Happy DIY is not just a store – it’s a haven where you can choose different arts and crafts projects to come in and do. From decorating AirPod cases and tote bags to creating phone charms and bracelets, there are many ways to choose your own adventure.”
Bring along a date or a friend or go solo to enjoy the wide selection of glitter, charms and paint for your crafts.
You can visit them at 118 N. 9th St. They are open Sunday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
BODIE
This colorful boutique is a “well-stocked pantry, cozy home and neighborhood gem” all in one!
You can explore home goods, cards, candles and art – many of which are stocked by 300 makers, artists and small businesses. The boutique is also focused on partnering with female and emerging artists to elevate their products.
You can visit BODIE at their Queen Village location at 520 S. 4th St. or their Fairmount location at 2026 Fairmount Ave. Both locations are open Monday-Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Paper on Pine
If you’re looking for a specialized card, unique gift, customized stationary or Philly sports merch, Paper on Pine is the perfect option.
The stationary store offers many services from customized invitations and Philly holiday ornaments to notecards, birthday cards and more.
You can visit them at 1310 Sansom St. They are open Monday-Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.
South Street Art Mart
This artist-run retail shop hosts over 200 Philly-area artists and makers – and it has no shortage of unique goodies!
From nail polish, DIY craft kits and home decor to zines, books and records, this is a perfect spot for all kinds of artsy goods.
You can visit them at 530 S. 4th St. They are open Sunday-Wednesday, noon-5 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday, noon-7 p.m.
Foley’s: The Philly Sports Shop
This authentic Philly sports shop brings all the Philly sports merch while only featuring local, Philly artists.
The space features Philly sports plushies, customized shirts, jewelry, baseball bats, and more.
You can visit them at 2206 South St. They are open Thursday-Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Paper Source
This Center City stationary shop specializes in unique and customized paper, greeting cards, invitations, and more.
Choose from lots of wedding invites and save the date options, buy DIY crochet and paint by number kits or explore seasonal and occasion-specific gifts – online or in their store. The store also hosts various events throughout the year.
You can visit them at 1628 Walnut St. They are open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Moon + Arrow
This eco-conscious store features everything from handmade and vintage jewelry to clothes, accessories and home decor.
Discover wooden purses and bags, sustainable jewelry, bath products, candles and homegoods and more.
You can visit them at 742 S 4th St. They are open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Little Apple Gift Boutique
This Manayunk boutique is focused on handpicked goods ranging from baby shower gifts, to hand poured candles to Jellycats and margarita mixes.
Their Halloween offerings right now feature everything from Jellycat Ghosts to autumn candles to spooky pillows.
You can visit them at 4361 Main St. They are open Mondays, noon-5 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesdays, noon-6 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays, noon-7 p.m., Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Minor Details Philly
This Philly sports shop could become your new favorite for Eagles merch, Philly-centered wine glasses and city-inspired tea towels.
Buy an Eagles green handbag or track shorts to cheer on the Birds, get a collection of Philly can or wine glasses or mix it up with hot dog magnets or Aperol Spritz napkins.
The store has two locations. Its Fishtown spot is located at 2023 Frankford Ave, and it is open Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Its Manayunk location is at 4401 Main St. It is open Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Philly TCG
This Fishtown trading card shop has everything from Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering cards to trading card binders, figurines and more!
The store also hosts tournaments, trading card events and release events. You can check their event schedule on Instagram.
You can visit them at 310 E. Girard Ave. They are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, noon-7 p.m. Then on Thursdays, 1-7 p.m. and Saturdays, noon-6:30 p.m. They are closed on Tuesdays and Sundays.
The Resource Exchange
This space specializes in reusing materials and redistributing them to crafters, makers and artists. From knitting machines and yarn to theater props and building materials, there are a lot of goods you can find here.
The organization itself has a mission to “divert valuable materials” from waste streams and put them back toward the public. They also host workshops and galleries with reusable materials.
You can visit them at 1800 N. American St. They are open Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m., and Sundays, noon-4 p.m.
Philly AIDS Thrift
Technically a thrift store, Philly AIDS Thrift has been a staple in the community since 2005. Its offerings of “dollar to design to everything in between” makes it a special spot for those in the city. The store has an electronics and furniture section, clothes, jewelry, home decor and more.
Billy Penn has spoken with owner Christina Kallas-Sartisogelou several times. She said the store also has a large focus on HIV/AIDS care, giving grants to qualifying organizations focusing on causes like prevention, outreach, case management, research and education. The store itself also has an HIV testing center.
You can visit them at 710 S. Fifth St. They also have a bookstore, Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni’s Room at 345 S. 12th St. Both are open Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Shane Confectionery and Franklin Fountain
Shane Confectionery is America’s oldest continuously operated confectionery – and it is still standing today with many sweet offerings. Its current owners also own Franklin Fountain, a recreation of a 1915 ice cream parlor.
Together, these businesses give visitors a unique opportunity to step into a time machine and enjoy sweet treats like ice cream and candy.
You can visit Shane Confectionery at 110 Market St. They are open Monday-Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
You can visit Franklin Fountain at 116 Market St. They are open every day from 11 a.m. to midnight.
Billy Penn also has two bookstore guides and a thrift store guide to curate your shopping experience!
This list is developing and will be updated as new information is found
