Explore Philadelphia
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Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Center for Architecture
AIA Bookstore and Design Center
Type: Art Galleries, Bookstores, Fine Craft Galleries, Furniture / Home Decor
10Best Says
You may not think a gift shop run by the American Institute of Architects to be a go-to place for shopping. But in Philadelphia it is, and when we say it's stocked with gifts for everyone, we mean... Read More
You may not think a gift shop run by the American Institute of Architects to be a go-to place for shopping. But in Philadelphia it is, and when we say it's stocked with gifts for everyone, we mean it's stocked with gifts for EVERYONE. Richly hued tabletop books about Moroccan design, Philadelphia-themed neck ties, newfangled vegetable peelers, all the Legos you could ever want, beautifully bound books for journaling, and even chimpanzee puppets (okay, we're not quite sure what that has to do with architecture, either). In all seriousness, what ties these items together is that they all celebrate or inspire creativity. If you're in town around the holidays, this can be a one-stop shop for everyone on your list, as it claims the city's largest and most unique collection of cards and ornaments.
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Address:
1218 Arch St
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215.569.3188
Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm
- Sun: Noon-5pm
Website:
aiabookstore.com
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Sharon Rigney
Philadelphia Local Expert
- Best Shopping: "If you're into architecture and design, you should also consider touring Philadelphia's magnificent City Hall (the largest masonry structure in the world) and the traffic-stopping Masonic Temple, both of which are three blocks from the shop."
- Recommended as Best Shopping Because: Most unique shopping venue in Philadelphia? Perhaps not, but this place is definitely worth a look for those hard-to-buy-for folks.
