Shop Penn

As the stack of Best of Philly awards may suggest, J. Lamancuso’s impeccably merchandised shop serves as a home and lifestyle mecca for gift-givers far and wide. Stop by their location at Walnut and 37th street and you will find friendly staff, a variety of price points, tasteful from-Philadelphia wares, accessories, wall art, mid-20th-century designs, and an irresistible assortment of items just for fun. What to keep an eye out for: gifts for those with furry friends, statement necklaces sourced from local makers, vegan leather bags, great coffee table contenders, and the sofa of your [actual] dreams.

Cork & Candles offers a unique and interactive gift experience where creativity meets craft. This BYOB candle-making workshop allows guests to design their own personalized candles with custom scents in a fun, relaxed environment. Whether you're looking for a memorable group activity or seeking a one-of-a-kind gift, visitors can craft their own candle or choose from a selection of premade candles, making it a perfect stop for those wanting a truly personal touch to their holiday shopping.

There’s still something to be said for holding a book in your hands, isn’t there? And there’s a lot to be said for supporting an independent bookstore. Last Word Bookshop, just off the Penn campus, is a wonderful place to get lost among the stacks of used books in every genre. Gift yourself with an afternoon of browsing or search for the perfect story to give to anyone else you know with books climbing the walls at home. Last Word and House of Our Own Books are two fantastic places to explore the stacks for the perfect gift for the reader in your life.

Why not gift someone you love a little well-deserved pampering? Luxe Nail Bar and Joseph Anthony Hair Salon both offer gift cards – and great options for a post-holiday (and mid-winter) treat. What’s not to like about an already-paid-for manicure and pedicure?

A stylish pair of sunglasses or new frames is one of those gifts that are both very fun and very useful. With one of the finest selections of designer eyewear and sunglasses in the area, and an emphasis on the more exclusive, innovations designers of hand-made, and often green styles, Modern Eye has received national and local acclaim for its branding and design style, and has served Philadelphia for over 25 years.

We all have those friends or family who just love to get out and hit the pavement. You may not understand them, but that doesn't mean you can't get them the perfect holiday gift! Philadelphia Runner is a dream for all those runners out there, whether they stick to 5Ks or ultra-marathons. The locally-owned and independently operated company features an unrivaled collection of shoes, apparel, and accessories designed to help a runner get where they need to go.

Natural Shoe Store offers a perfect local gift solution for the shoe lover in your life, featuring beloved comfort brands like Ugg, Doc Martens, and Timberland. Since 1978, this family-owned shop has been helping customers find thoughtful gifts, from cozy winter boots for family members to stylish Dansko clogs for colleagues. With a carefully curated selection, Natural Shoe Store transforms holiday shopping into a warm, community-focused experience.