Art Star — Local services in Philadelphia

A gem of individual expression in a world otherwise full of mass-produced chain store monotony. This shop has a great selection of unique, hand-made items for both adults and children at prices that are quite reasonable for this level of quality. Like the name suggests, these are artistic pieces ranging from the practical (drinking glasses and shirts) to the purely whimsical (cute and colorful wall-mounted trophy animal heads made from felt). Browse around the shop with no pressure or the friendly owners are happy to offer suggestions if you give them an idea of what you're looking for. I picked up a pair of dinosaur mittens as a last-minute Christmas gift for my friend's 3-year-old and they even gift wrapped it for me with a nice paper flower...

Adorable shop that even offers classes! You can definitely find gifts and accessories here that you won't find anywhere else. I also enjoy that they seem to have something for every price range. After mentioning wanting to learn how to make handmade paper flowers, the shop owner pulled out materials and showed me on the spot. Definitely worth checking this place out as they offer everything from baby clothes to toddler toys, pet products, toiletries, candles, jewelry, cards, pottery, artwork, jewelry, hair accessories, stationary, to craft supplies and...

Art Star is one of my favorite places in the city. I've been going there since they opened and it keeps getting better. Megan and Erin have curated such a wonderful collection of artists and makers. I've found wonderful gifts here - ceramics, jewelry, prints, paintings - but I pretty much always leave with something for myself, too. I love their new location at the Independence Vistors Center. Note that Google Maps has them in the wrong space - they're now at 599 Market Street (in Philadelphia). Don't miss this place...