Washington, D.C., is full of shopping options, but the most fulfilling places to shop are small local stores that provide unmatched service, community atmosphere, and unique products.
Here are four incredibly cool local businesses to support in Washington, D.C.!
Dupont Circle: 1608 20th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20009
Takoma Park: 6927 Laurel Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912
If you like home décor, or really anything cute, check out this adorable store in the heart of the
Dupont Circle neighborhood. The idea for a home store started with three friends hanging out in Dupont and realizing there was no place to shop locally (this was in 2002 -- a lot has changed, of course!). So, after creating a business plan, finding a space, and coming to terms with their fears, they opened Tabletop D.C. in 2003. Now Tabletop sells home accessories, décor, and is even dabbling in jewelry. And, they recently opened a second location in Takoma Park!
Rather than shopping for generic kitchen/home stuff online, venture out this spring and shop the boutique. You’ll find pieces that are totally original and will completely
transform your home. You’ll enjoy spending time in the store as well, with its bright colors and friendly staff. And, if you love home décor and want even more options, check out
these cute spots on 14th Street.
If you’re looking to shop more local this year, this is the place to start!
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733 8th Street SE, Washington, D.C., 20003
Located in the charming neighborhood of Capitol Hill, this local pet store is proud to have served the Washington, D.C., community for over a decade. They specialize in healthy and organic food products and provide the kind of service the big box stores just can’t live up to. The store has been awarded the “Best Pet Shop” award by the Washington City Paper in 2013, 2014, and 2015.
Howl to the Chief is also much more than a pet store. They host lots of dog events, including pet adoption days, and holiday specials. They also offer grooming and dog washing services. On beautiful spring and summer weekends, Capitol Hill is the perfect place to walk your dog; they’ll
enjoy the stroll, and you’ll enjoy the lively vibe of the neighborhood -- from the beautiful brick row house,s to the brunch-goers spilling out onto the restaurant patios.
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645 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington, D.C., 20003
This shop is unique in the Washington, D.C., area, being a
“family-friendly, community-focused store featuring a wide selection of non-electronic, specialty games, puzzles, and mazes.”
This is as much a great place for kids as it is for adults. There are tons of activities in the store, and the staff that works there
wants to be there and is very willing and knowledgeable when it comes to addressing all your questions and needs.
If you’re looking to unplug from your electronics and spend some time enjoying the company of your family, friends, significant other, or even just yourself, come to Labyrinth and pick up a puzzle or specialty game. And, if you’re looking for a fun daytime date idea, hang out in the store and play one of the games or mazes.
Labyrinth also has events, from tournaments to meetups to fan clubs. You can check out the most updated schedule on their
Eventbrite page. Renting out the store for a private event is also possible, so keep them in mind for your next party!
And if you love the charm of the neighborhood, check out
Eastern Market, one of the biggest outdoor markets in the city.
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Logan Circle: 1412 Q Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20009
Brookland: 716 Monroe Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20017
People in Washington, D.C., love to bike everywhere, especially in the warmer months. If you’re thinking of joining that crowd, you’ll need a durable, sturdy, but also stylish bike to sport around town. The Bike Rack in Logan Circle has got you covered.
The staff will lead you through the whole process and help you choose a bike that fits your lifestyle needs and your personality. The store also offers continued support if you have questions later on, as well as repair services. It was named one of “America’s Best Bike Shops” by
the National Bike Dealers Association (NBDA) in 2016.
The store is located in one of the cutest neighborhoods in the city, Logan Circle. You can check out the neighborhood guide
here. You can also experience one of the
best burgers of your life at Duke’s Grocery around the corner, or check out
these half-priced wine nights.
There’s also a second Bike Rack location in the Brookland neighborhood.
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Have you been to any of these shops? What are your favorite local stores? Let us know in the comments below!
