November 8, 2023
From the cutest bookshops and specialty stores to one of the many gift shops in the downtown Lincoln area, there are a number of spots to consider visiting if you want to support the Husker community by shopping locally. We’ve come up with some local favorites just a short distance from City Campus.
From Nebraska Gift Shop
Owned by Husker Alums Barb and Jim Ballard, From Nebraska Gift Shop is the best spot to buy Nebraska-produced foods, snacks and sweets, art, seasonal gifts, wellness products, books and more. You’ll be sure to find something while also supporting a Nebraskan producer or company!
Threads — Footloose & Fancy
Threads Footloose & Fancy is a staple of downtown Lincoln. Housed in a snazzy new location off 12th and P Streets, you can find shoes for almost any occasion as well as clothing for both men and women. If you’re less into wearables, check out their fun everyday items like water bottles, stickers and other stationery—or grab something for your home from their collection of candles, blankets and more.
Trade-a-Tape Comic Center
If you’re into comics and graphic novels, Trade-a-Tape Comic Center is a must-visit spot. Located right on 9th Street, the shop carries over 200,000 issues and offers almost 15,000 golden and silver-age comics online.
A Novel Idea Bookstore
A Novel Idea Bookstore is a quintessential downtown Lincoln stop with two floors full of used and rare books plus a couple of the sweetest furry friends (Cricket and Charlie). Be sure to check out their website and social media as well — they’re always running sales and giving away free books outside the shop!
Precision Skateboards
Precision Skateboards is Nebraska’s longest-running skate shop and your go-to for anything skate-related, from decks and shoes to grip tape an apparel.
Francie & Finch
Located next to the prettiest green fire escape (Note for future photo-taking sessions!) Francie & Finch is a newer bookshop to Lincoln and offers not only physical books but also audiobooks and unique art pieces. Check out their event calendar as well; they’re always working with authors to plan book launches, signing events and other celebrations.
Gomez Art Supply
Peggy Gomez, the owner and operator of Gomez Art Supply, is a Nebraska alumna who opened her art shop twenty years ago in 2003. Whether you’re starting your journey as an artist or a professional, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for as you start your next creative project. Gomez Art Supply carries supplies from oil pastels and tools to hanging supplies, spray paint, sketching items and a range of additional art supplies.
Wax Buffalo
Wax Buffalo is known around the country — and rightfully so. Their pure soy candles are full of fun smells, unique packaging and the best part is they’re handmade right here in Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket. If you’re not into candles, check out their curated lines of a range of fun lifestyle products. Interested in learning how to create your own candle? They offer candle-making classes at their candle labs as well.
Timeless Treasures
Timeless Treasure Antique Shop is the perfect spot to explore if you’re looking for something unique for your dorm room or home. A third-generation business in Lincoln, you’ll find their shelves filled with antique glassware, coins, jewelry, vintage clothing, books and more interesting products from over the years.
Ruby Begonia’s
For over 30 years, Ruby Begonia’s has remained a Lincoln favorite for thrifting. Buy, sell or trade in your vintage or vintage-inspired clothing or just pop your head in to check out the fun clothes. Fashionistas and lovers of thrifting will love this Ruby Begonias — located just a couple blocks from City Campus.
Exclusive Hype
Hidden in the alley right off of O Street, Exclusive Hype is the spot for sneakerheads. You can also find original vintage streetwear including shirts and designer accessories. Each item is handpicked and original. Check out their social media for updates on new arrivals every day.
Roots
Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just interested in trying something new, Roots Music Shop will have something for you. There are drums, guitars, keyboards, speakers and loads of other music gear both new and used. They buy, sell and trade instruments and even offer lessons!