9 Best Places to Shop in Ballard, Seattle

Every Sunday, rain or shine, loads of vendors come to Ballard Avenue to set up colorful, welcoming stands to sell produce and all types of local, artisanal foods, as well as gift items like candles and hats. Meanwhile, local buskers entertain foodies and families, and vendors cook up pizzas, crepes, dumplings, and more.

"A little bit country, a little bit rock and roll," Horseshoe offers girlie Western wear and hipster styles. Comfy, sassy shirts and dresses are available from designers like Sanctuary, Lovestitch, and Amuse Society. Premium denim, cowboy boots, and unique jewelry are among the wares.

One of the best shoe stores in town, Market Street stocks so many styles and brands that you're likely to find something. Shoes for men, women, and children prioritize comfort, so you'll see sensible picks from Dansko, Hoka One One, and Blundstone, but there are plenty of fun options by Eric Michael, Pendleton, and Bueno, as well.

Stocking cool but comfortable shoes from Karhu, Clae, Miz Mooz, and the like, this hip space offers a small selection of crazy fashionable boots, shoes, sneaks, and high heels. In keeping with the "little bit of everything" trend so popular with Seattle boutiques, re-souL also sells great jewelry pieces. They carry both men's and women's shoes, some clothes, and accessories. Everything is a bit pricey, but not excessively so, and the service earns the price tag.

Outdoorsy types should check out Second Ascent for a range of new and used cycling, climbing, running, and ski gear. The store stocks just about everything you need for wilderness fun, from carabiners to Telemark boots, most at discount prices. And the knowledgeable staff is super friendly.

Named after the Francis Hodgson Burnett classic, this cozy shop has delighted readers for decades. A favorite of teachers, librarians, and parents, it stocks a wide array of imaginative literature and thoughtful nonfiction for all ages; their children's section is particularly noteworthy.

Venue is the chic version of the Made In Washington stores: it stocks only goods made by local artists (some of whom have their studios in the sleek bilevel space), but you won't find any tacky souvenirs here. Watch the designers at work, chat with the staff (most are artists taking shifts), or just browse through artisanal chocolates, custom handbags, handmade soaps, baby wear, and colorful prints and mosaics.

Taking cues from the neighborhood's Scandinavian history, this boutique brings the minimalist mindset of modern Scandinavian design back to Ballard's streets. High-quality and timeless home goods, art in mostly neutral tones, and useful gifts fill the shelves in the store, which itself embodies the same principles, making shopping a delightful and calming experience.