Polka Dots is a unique gift shop in Elkhorn Village, minutes from downtown Lexington. We have great Kentucky items, gifts, Vera Bradley, Brighton jewelry, purses, robes, blankets, throws and much, much more! This fun little shop is filled with a great mix of charming delightful items. If you need a special gift or something wonderful for your home, come to Polka Dots. Mon.-Sat. 10-6. 4371 Old Harrodsburg Rd. #160, 223-0483.

Everything BUT the baby…come visit us to find cool rocker, hip, punk-style clothing for your little one. Unique, one-of-a-kind pieces ranging from punk & skulls to tattoo styles, vintage/retro and shabby-chic floral. Clothes are fun, playful & distinctive, but most of all comfy; your little one will be the talk of the town. Retro trikes, pedal cars and toys also available. Tues.–Sat. 10 am–6 pm, Sun. 11 am–5 pm. 401 W. Main St. first floor in Victorian Square, 455-8528. www.cradlewillrockonline.com

While in downtown Lexington, visit the only locally-owned toy shop. The Toy Shop has unique and American classic toys including wooden toys and puzzles from Melissa & Doug.
For collectors, The Toy Shop sells Madame Alexander dolls, Breyer model horses, Hello Kitty, Carnegie dionsaurs as well as Gund stuffed animals and "stuffies". Even UK Wildcat accessories can be found here. 410 W.Vine St. in the Shops at Lexington Center, 2nd level. 859-455-8777, info@toyshopinlex.com, www.toyshopinlex.com
Good Scents Home & Body Shop offers hand-poured 100% soy wax candles, handcrafted natural soaps, over 15 completely customizable bath products, plus all the extras for a Home Spa treatment, right down to the embroidered robes. Good Scents has over 230 different fragrances and essential oils available for blending and all products are quickly custom made, fresh for each customer to their individual scent preferences. Visit Good Scents and “Scent Your Life.” 123 N. Broadway in Victorian Square Shoppes. Mon.–Sat. 10 am–6 pm. Validated 3 hours free parking in Victorian Square Garage on Short St. 859-402-2081. www.BuyGoodScents.com

For a relaxing shopping experience, visit the Shops at Lexington Center. From signature Kentucky items, to clothing and one-of-a-kind gifts, The Shops has much to offer the discriminating shopper. This collection of boutiques and specialty stores is located in the heart of downtown at The Lexington Center, Kentucky’s largest convention-arena-hotel complex.
Located at 410 West Vine St., within walking distance to theaters, fine dining, hotels and additional shopping. Three hours free parking with merchant validation in the High Street lot. No purchase necessary. 859-233-4567. www.lexingtoncenter.com
A block of restored Victorian-era buildings enclosed into a shopping mall. From art and clothing to restaurants and collectibles, Victorian Square is Lexington’s most diverse, original and refreshing shopping experience.
Children will enjoy the Explorium. Artists' Attic features working artists. The soul of sophistication in the heart of downtown, at Main & Broadway. Three hours free parking in the attached garage with validation. No purchase necessary. 859-252-7575. www.victoriansquareshoppes.com
Just a Block Away from Everywhere! Celtic jewelry (including the Celtic Family Pendant as shown in ad), Belleek china, tweed hats, Irish fragrances, Celtic wedding bands & engagement rings, imported foods.
Ever wanted to go to Ireland? Come experience the "Haggis to Guinness Tour" of Scotland & Ireland October 20-29, 2010 with a native of Ireland. Check website for details.
Mon.-Fri. 10:30-6:30, Sat. 10-6. 113 S. Upper. 381-1498, contact@failteimports.com. www.failteimports.com

Established in 1984, & consistently rated Lexington’s “best used bookstore,” Black Swan offers a broad selection of used, rare & collectible books. Specialties include History, Horses, Cookbooks, Kentucky Literature, Military History & Modern First Editions. Books for both the reader & the scholar, in close proximity to downtown & the University of Kentucky. Located in the Woodland Triangle between Woodland & Kentucky Avenues. Mon.-Sat. 11-5:30. 505 E. Maxwell St. 252-7255.
Established in 2007, Calypso has become Lexington’s favorite spot for unique women’s clothing, jewelry and vintage boots at AFFORDABLE prices. A handpicked selection of casual to fancy DRESSES, tops and skirts are available. Collections of cowboy style vintage BOOTS and vintage jewelry are our best-sellers! Come experience unmatched personal service at this locally owned boutique found near UK campus and Ramsey’s Diner, in the Woodland Triangle neighborhood. View our latest inventory, updated daily, on our Facebook page. Mon.-Sat. 11-6. 513 E Maxwell St. 859-225-3810. www.facebook.com/calypsoboutique

You can always find a large variety of quality name brand luggage, briefs and computer briefs. With over 1,200 pens to choose from, you will find the largest selection of fine writing instruments in the state of Kentucky. We are located at The Mall at Lexington Green on the corner of New Circle Rd. (Circle 4) and Nicholasville Rd. 161 Lexington Green Circle, 859-273-1382. www.shopleatherinc.com
The Mall at Lexington Green features unique specialty stores along with familiar favorites. Whether you are searching for a special gift, a home decorating idea, the latest best seller or that “forgotten” vacation item, you’ll find it all at The Mall at Lexington Green. See tenant list for more ideas…you’ll find it all at The Mall at Lexington Green! 161 Lexington Green Circle, 859-245-1513. www.LexGreenMall.com

Locally owned and distinctly different – Worlds Apart at Lexington Green has the latest in clothing, shoes & accessories. Find casual designs from Michael Stars, Ella Moss, Miss Me, Citizens of Humanity and BCBG. Or visit Worlds Apart Home in historic Chevy Chase – a true emporium filled with décor, books, toys, clothing & gifts. Mon.-Sat. 10-9, Sun. 1-6 at 161 Lexington Green Circle, 245-8233; Mon.-Sat. 10-8, Sun. 12-5 at Worlds Apart Home, 850 E. High St., 269-9558 and Mon.-Sat. 11-6 at warehouse 901, Worlds Apart Outlet Store, 901 Winchester Rd., 233-0040. www.worldsapartonline.com

Located in the Mall at Lexington Green, Joseph-Beth Booksellers provides customers with two stories of books, gift items, extensive music and children’s departments, weekly author events, and a full-service restaurant, the Bronte Bistro. Mon.-Thurs. 9-10, Fri.-Sat. 9-11, Sun. 11-9. 161 Lexington Green Circle (The Mall at Lexington Green). 273-2911. www.josephbeth.com
Artique, a unique celebration of creativity, features fine American & Kentucky craft works of 1,000 artists. Artique offers fine & eclectic designer jewelry, hand-blown glass, ceramics, sculpture & collectible art made by local & national artisans. Visit us during the WEG for a spectacular collection of one of a kind equetrian art, jewelry, artist demos & exhibits. View the construction of our 100-ton sand sculpture commemorating the Games! In business over 30 years, Artique has received numerous national & local awards and recognition for exceptional quality crafts, outstanding customer service and commitment to serving the community. Artique is a shopping experience not to be missed. Downtown in The Shops at Lexington Center, 233-1774, Mon.-Sat. 10-6; Lexington Green, 272-8802, 888-288-1774. Mon.-Sat. 10-9, Sun. 1-6. www.artiquegallery.com

Lexington’s “one stop gift shop” is the place to find perfect gifts for any occasion. Whether it is a unique picture frame, boxed note cards, purses & totes or bath lotions & potions, The Front Porch has what you want. We carry MudPie, jewelry, SwitchFlops by Lindsay Phillips and much more. Spend time browsing through special gift items, toys, house & garden décor and custom embroidered items & accessories. Ask about our Best of Lex special discount. Mon.-Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 1-5. 4238 Saron Dr. at Tates Creek & Man O’ War, 271-9326.

In its 24th year, Athens Schoolhouse Antiques Shows features thousands of square feet of antiques & collectibles under one roof. Held at the historic Athens-Boonesboro School, conveniently accessed off I-75 at Exit 104. Visit The Back Door Café and eat while you antique. Show is held the second weekend of each month. Free parking. $2 for all 3 days; children under 12 Free. Fri.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5. 4800 Athens Walnut Hill Rd., 255-7309. www.antiqueskentucky.com

Ladies, don’t miss this opportunity to visit Kentucky’s #1 designer outlet store. Women's wear designer names at 30-70% off retail. Personal service in a clean & neat atmosphere. Park at the door. Mon.-Sat. 10-7, Sun. 1-5. Regency Centre, 171 W. Lowry Lane at Nicholasville Rd. 276-6144.

Find us tucked away in Woodhill Plaza in “The Pink Building.” Specializing in traditional Ky. candies, we offer Woodford Reserve Bourbon Balls, Blue Mondays, Jamieson’s Chocolate & Ky. Pulled Candy.
As the Official Candies of Churchill Downs®, the Kentucky Derby® and an Official Candy of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™, we have a wonderful selection of equine gifts & Kentucky-made specialties. Mon.-Sat. 9:30-6, Sun. 1-6. 2313 Woodhill Plaza. 268-1559. www.ruthhuntcandy.com

Two of Lexington’s most unique shops, and a finalist for a 2007 Lexington Business of the Year award, and recipient of the Republic Bank WE CARE award for 2009 (retailer category), the pet nutrition centers specialize in freshly baked, all natural treats for dogs & cats (horses love them too). Featuring quality dog and cat foods (not affected by any of the recent pet food recalls), eco-friendly & safe toys, supplies & accessories, & exclusive gift items for dogs, cats & people who love them. Come in, browse around and smell the many wonderful aromas.
What better way to TREAT your best friend! Dogs are always welcome. Near Downtown: 113 Clay Ave. 859-233-DOGS (3647). Mon.-Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5. Near Fayette Mall: 152 W. Tiverton Way. 859-523-3733. Mon.-Sat. 10-7. Special hours during World Games and Christmas season. www.bluegrassbarkery.com

Come visit Army Surplus Warehouse, inside the Wood Energy Warehouse building, Lexington’s oldest woodstove store. The 5-story red brick warehouse was built in 1890 and was originally a cigarette factory. We offer camping supplies, ammo cans, a variety of camo pants & other unique gifts. Discover unique gifts for the little soldier as well as the veteran. Find something for birthdays, Halloween & Christmas at reasonable prices. 138 E. Loudon Ave. Mon.-Fri. 9-5, Sat. 10-4. 252-0441.

Christopher Michael is dedicated to bringing together a mix of quality furniture and handcrafted accessories from all over the world. We offer full service design for corporate, commercial, residential and hospitality markets. Offering Old World, Contemporary, Classic, Traditional and Retro designs. Come visit Lexington’s best kept secret and stop wondering just where that piece came from. Mon.–Sat. 10:30 am–5:30 pm, Sun. 12:30 pm–3:30 pm. 842 E. High St., 243-8867. www.christophermichaelonline.com

Buy Local. Think Local. Local First Lexington is a non-profit organization that works to keep Lexington a unique, interesting and economically stable place to live and work. Our members are large and small independent businesses throughout Lexington who are interested in spreading the word about the significant economic and cultural contributions that local businesses make to our community. www.localfirstlexington.com

Drive up to the door, walk through the sumptuous arch and experience a distinct destination for the highest quality and style in gifts for the HOME, for the GARDEN and for LOVE. Best gifts… aromatherapeutic bath & home, candles, Italian pottery, ribbon, permanent botanicals, watercolor cards, vases, orchids, statuary, elements for the garden everywhere, and of course, specialty cut flowers. Enjoy gourmet tasting on Saturdays. Parking at front door. Mon.–Fri. 8:30 am–5 pm, Sat. 9 am–5 pm. 807 Chevy Chase Place. 266-4682 or 800-359-4757. www.bestofflowers.com

The bright red store on Ashland Ave. is fast becoming a staple for Lexington’s shoe needs. We are constantly bringing in new brands for both men & women. This sister to John’s Run/Walk Shop specializes in comfortable shoes that look great. We feature Kentucky’s best selection of Dansko & Finn Comfort, as well as unique European & American brands like Munro, Naot, Arche, Think! & Chaco. We are located across the street from John’s Run/Walk Shop & down the street from the University of Kentucky. Mon.-Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 1-5. 316 S. Ashland Ave. 859-266-6420. www.johnsrunwalkshop.com

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