8 Best Shopping in Union Square, New York City

Step into this emporium of eclectic home goods from around the world, and you might feel like you've found your fantasy-land nest. An astounding array of colorful rugs, antiques, textiles, furniture, and bedding, including sleek sofas and Balinese daybeds is spread over several floors. The ground level is a chic marketplace of antique stemware, ceramic tableware, fine jewelry, and wellness products. There are no less than three in-house restaurants from Jean-Georges Vongerichten, which are destinations in their own right. The selection of unique jewelry on the first floor is wonderful, if you're looking for a gift.

This chic New York–based boutique was started by two women who believed that sexy, pretty lingerie should be everyday wear—and comfortable, too. The stock consists of well-known brands like Cosabella and Natori, as well as Journelle's own line. Staff are approachable and helpful. There are now a handful of Journelle stores around the city, including in SoHo and on the Upper East Side.

Opened in 1927 and still run by the same family, this vast book emporium—home to 2 million volumes, or "18 Miles of Books"—is a symbol of a bygone era, a mecca for serious bibliophiles, and a local institution. The stock includes new and secondhand books, foreign-language titles, and thousands of collector's items—some of which are found in the third-floor rare-book room. The basement has discounted, sometimes barely touched review copies of new books organized by author. If you're looking for souvenirs, there's lots of New York–centric literature as well as T-shirts and totes. Check the Strand's events calendar for virtual and live readings.

A simple space, the Manhattan outpost of this long-standing Brooklyn-based icon has a wide selection of gently used modern and vintage clothes. Comb through the racks, and you might find pieces from Christian Dior, Marc Jacobs, or AllSaints, as well as stylish items from under-the-radar labels.

This is not your ordinary bead store. The semiprecious stones and baubles are sourced from around the world—say, silver from Bali or ancient glass beads from China. There's also has a wide range of worldly trinkets like Thai Buddha figurines, Mexican Madonna candles, and Indian Ganesha-printed hangings.

This independent shop is piled high with old-fashioned wooden toys, sturdy musical instruments, classic kids' books, and plenty of arts-and-crafts materials.