The best book, hobby & craft shops in Ballwin

“New-age shop known for its crystals and stones as well as books, plus a coffee bar and a smoothie shop.”

“Retail store for comic books, manga and board games, along with figurines and T-shirts.”

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“Gaming store where customers can also purchase comics, board games, and video games.”

“Neighborhood bookstore featuring new and used titles, as well as author events.”

“Locally owned store selling toys, games, and gifts for babies to adults.”

“Storeroom featuring snacks and drinks, as well as textbooks and gifts.”

“Checkered Cottage has been a one-of-a-kind spot since 1999, stocked with thoughtful paper crafting supplies and beautiful home decor to level up your handmade cards, keepsakes, and gifts.”

From the Chesterfield newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Vintage Vinyl is still the city’s happiest rabbit hole, with deep bins of new and used wax plus CDs and DVDs spanning everything from rock, hip-hop, and reggae to R&B and jazz. Swing by this week for indie exclusives, Record Store Day 2026 preorders, and those sneaky online restocks made real.”

From the St. Louis newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Since 1953, Nottelmann Music Co has been St. Louis’s reliable stop for band and orchestra folks, with easy online rentals, solid lesson programs, and expert repair work. Woodwinds, brass, strings, percussion, plus guitars, keyboards and drums...”

“Chain music store carrying instruments such as guitars, amps, and drums, plus recording and DJ gear.”

“Sign of the Arrow has been St. Louis’s go-to needlepoint and gift shop since 1966, with custom canvases, kits, threads, and finishing that shines, especially belts.”

From the St. Louis newsletter, August 19, 2026

“If your amp is cranky or your favorite guitar needs a little mojo, Acme Guitars is a local go-to for vintage and used guitars, English amps, and cool effects, and every amp they sell is serviced back to factory specs. Poke around for quirky gems, or get expert service that makes practice addictive this week.”

From the St. Louis newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Shop selling vintage instruments from electric guitars to amplifiers and basses, plus repairs.”

“Sprawling store for new and used vinyl, CDs and DVDs, plus audiophile equipment.”

“Let J. Gravity Strings, a laid-back STL staple, work their mellow magic with honest repairs and dialed-in setups, then poke around the racks for new and used guitars that make you want to cancel plans and play until your fingertips stage a tiny protest.”

From the St. Louis newsletter, August 22, 2026

“From RC cars, planes and boats to model trains, dollhouse minis, beads, art supplies, games and puzzles, Schaefer's Hobby Shop is the family-owned St. Louis classic where the staff actually knows their stuff and helps you finish what you start. Swing by this week and build something fun.”

From the Chesterfield newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Friendly shop for crafters, providing a selection of vinyl and sublimation supplies such as ink and blanks.”