neighborhood guides
U District Holiday Gift Guide: Find Unique Gifts for Everyone on Your List
As the holiday season approaches, the U District transforms into a bustling hub of festivity. Searching for distinctive presents? Check out our guide below for local small businesses to visit this holiday season. From cozy shops with handcrafted treasures to specialty stores bursting with character, this holiday shopping guide will lead you on a merry adventure through the neighborhood.
Leave the stress behind and explore these U District gems for the perfect gifts!
Gargoyle’s
Unearth Quirky Delights
4550 University Way NE, Seattle
Gargoyle’s is a treasure trove of otherworldly curiosities. From mystical figurines to Gothic jewelry, they feature local art and unique gifts for the special people in your life who revel in the extraordinary. gargoylesstatuary.com
Gift Picks: Beautiful ornaments you won’t see anywhere else are hung throughout Gargoyles! Our recent favorite are the mushroom ornaments with just the perfect amount of sparkle!
Lulumiere
Illuminate the Season
5200 Roosevelt Way NE Suite A, Seattle
At Lulumiere, you’ll find a captivating collection of artisan candles, each lovingly handcrafted to bring warmth and light to your holidays. The beautiful shop also features an array of great gifts, from shower steamers to beautifully printed hand towels, chocolates, jams, and more; perfect for adding a touch of magic to any space. lulumiere.com
Gift Picks: With so many great scents to choose from, you can’t go wrong! Our recent favorite scent is Northwest encased in their beautiful Gem Collection glass jars.
Artist & Craftsman Supply
A Crafters Dream
4350 8th Ave NE, Seattle
For the artists and crafters in your life, Artist & Craftsman Supply is a creative paradise. Their shelves are stocked with high-quality art supplies that make for perfect presents. artistcraftsman.com
Photo from Artist & Craftsman Supply Facebook.
The Trading Musician
Music to Their Ear
5908 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle
The Trading Musician is a paradise for music aficionados. Whether your loved one is a budding guitarist or a seasoned musician, you’ll find a gift that hits all the right notes. tradingmusician.com
Fancy Plants Seattle
Embrace Green Gifting
5505 University Way NE, Seattle
For the plant enthusiasts and nature lovers, Fancy Plants Seattle offers a lush selection of indoor plants and botanical wonders. A beautiful, living gift that keeps on giving. fancyplantsseattle.com
Gift Picks: A succulent arrangement in one of their cute containers is perfect for both the indoor plant enthusiast and for those of us, ahem, who don’t possess a green thumb!
Shiga’s Import Shop
Global Treasures Await
4306 University Way NE, Seattle
Shiga’s Import Shop is a haven for world travelers and seekers of international treasures. Explore their collection of global goods, from textiles to ‘kawaii’ favorites like Hello Kitty. shigasimports.com
Four Corners Art & Frame
Frame Your Memories
4305 University Way NE, Seattle
Transform memories into timeless art at Four Corners Art & Frame. Specializing in custom framing, ensure your pictures and artwork become cherished keepsakes. @4cornersframe
Gift Picks: Bring in your own art or pick up a great new print in the shop, complete with ready made or completely custom framing options!
Centerstage Dance Shop
Dance into the Holiday
5267 University Way NE, Seattle
Help dancers of all ages shine with Centerstage Dance Shop’s elegant dancewear and accessories. Ideal for anyone with a passion for movement and grace. dance-wear.net
Photo from Centerstage Dance Facebook page
Woolly Mammoth Shoes
Serving up Fresh & Stylish Kicks
4303 University Way NE, Seattle
With great styles available year-round, stop in this winter to pick up the latest boot styles – or purchase a gift card to extend the holiday shopping fun to the shoe lover on your list! woollymammothshoes.com
Ted Brown Music
Unleash the Inner Musician
1006 NE 50th St, Seattle
Ted Brown Music is the destination for instruments and musical gear. Surprise someone with the gift of music this holiday season. tedbrownmusic.com
Danaca Design Gallery
Bespoke Jewelry Design
5619 University Way NE, Seattle
Explore artisan jewelry and tools for jewelers at this small-scale metal-working and jewelry fabrication studio. danacadesign.com
University Book Store
Books and More for Everyone on Your List
4326 University Way NE, Seattle
For avid readers and Husky fanatics alike, the University Book Store has the largest selection of new and popular titles alongside an incredible gift section. ubookstore.org
Gift Picks: Each year, University Book Store comes out with a great selection of holiday gifts, ornaments, and so much more! We love a good cookbook and their culinary arts selection offers all of the newest titles from chefs around the world.
Magus Books
Rare Books and More
1408 NE 42nd St, Seattle
Book lovers rejoice! The beloved rare and used book store is now also carrying new titles. Stop in to browse the stacks. magusbooksseattle.com
Treats & Great Eats
Food, Swag & Gift Cards
Treat your holiday party host with delicious treats and savory ready-made meal sets from local U District restaurants. Check out a few highlights of packaged foodie favors like the Curry Gift Sets from Mark Thai Food Box or order swoon-worthy desserts and ice cream from Sweet Alchemy Ice Creamery.
Growlers & Specialty Beers from Local Breweries
Craft Beer Cheers
For beer enthusiasts, grab a growler from local U District breweries like Ladd & Lass and Big Time Brewery. It’s a festive way to share the spirit of the season and enjoy quality craft beer.
Small Batch Roasted Coffee
More Espresso, Please
Seattle is coffee city, and Cafe Allegro serves up some of the best in the city! Pick up or have their delicious beans shipped and send caffeinated happiness to everycoffee lover on your list!
Uncover the perfect gifts for your loved ones while shopping small, supporting local businesses, and celebrating the magic of the holiday season. Happy shopping in the U District!