5 fun places for random gift shopping in Seattle

Archie McPhee is the kind of store you pop into when you’re looking for a silly gift for a friend or family member and walk out with four gifts for four different people, along with something random and kind of weird for yourself. While you can browse and purchase from their wide selection online, the Seattle Store is worth a visit for the fun and randomness you’ll encounter.

Standard Goods is a lifestyle boutique that has two locations in Seattle, one in Ballard and one on Capitol Hill, as well as a third location in Naperville, Illinois. They sell products from a large array of local vendors and definitely work hard to maintain their PNW hipster vibe. Pick up a piece of clothing, art or sticker (so many stickers!) to remember your travels by.

Prism is one of the more stylish and varied independent boutiques on Ballard Avenue NW in the main shopping area of the Ballard neighborhood. They offer both men’s and women’s clothing, in addition to accessories and eclectic decor, home goods and reading materials. It’s a great stop on your way to or from the Ballard Farmers Market.

Stuhlbergs is a gift shop and children’s boutique in a turn-of-the-century home at the top of Queen Anne hill. The owner, Megan Stuhlberg Mahapatra, reportedly carefully curates the whole collection. You’ll likely walk out with something different than you walked in for (or perhaps three times more than you intended to purchase) but that’s half the fun.

Meeples Games is ‘your friendly neighborhood gaming store’ located in West Seattle. Their selection isn’t gigantic, but you’ll likely find what you want and the staff are fun and helpful. They have a gaming cafe where you’ll always find a group or two playing some kind of role-playing game. Their online events calendar showcases a ton of chances to get involved, including weekly open D&D sessions.