The best book, hobby & craft shops in Hillsboro

Whether you're hunting something new for book club or just dodging chores with a novel, Riverbend Bookstore is a locally owned literary haven in Crystal City with a curated selection and community events that draw folks from across Jefferson County. Easy to make a habit of stopping in.

From the Hillsboro newsletter, October 21, 2026

Jefferson College Bookstore is the go-to for new, used, and digital textbooks, school spirit gear that actually fits, and the sneaky essentials you forget until week two... notebooks, calculators, chargers, even snacks.

From the De Soto newsletter, October 12, 2026

If your project to‑do list includes contracts and clarity, St Louis Chapter AIA Bookstore is where pros, students, and emerging designers pick up AIA Contract Documents and tap into AIA St. Louis resources and events, keeping work tidy and inspiration flowing right here in the metro.

From the Granite City newsletter, September 10, 2026

Progressive Emporium & Education Center is a longtime Black-owned bookstore that feels like a neighborhood hub, curating Afrikan-centered reads, children’s books, and holistic goods.

From the St. Louis newsletter, October 2, 2026

Whether you're crystal-curious or already on a first-name basis with your tarot deck, Mystic Valley is a close-to-home go-to for handpicked stones, metaphysical books, incense, and intuitive readings. Bonus, there’s a cozy coffee bar and smoothie spot so you can sip while you shop.

From the University City newsletter, September 2, 2026

From comic binges and manga hauls to cracking open new board games or painting tiny Warhammer minis, Fantasy Shop - Maplewood has the shelves and the staff to match your fandom. Start a comic subscription, swap deck ideas about Magic: The Gathering, and let lifelong geeks steer you toward something new since 1981.

From the St. Louis newsletter, September 16, 2026

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

Left Bank Books nails the neighborhood bookstore vibe with new and used finds, plentiful staff picks, and a steady calendar of author events and lively book clubs. When your TBR needs a plot twist, their signed editions, audiobooks, and unexpected gifts make browsing feel like the main character moment.

From the St. Louis newsletter, September 25, 2026

Happy Up Inc. is the locally owned toy and game spot that somehow nails gifts for babies, tweens, teens, and the adults who still love puzzles. Shop by age, discover STEM kits, plush, fidgets, and their handy Gift Bundles when you need a last-minute win.

From the St. Louis newsletter, September 9, 2026

Subterranean Books has been a local staple since 2000, stocking fresh new books, journals, and thoughtful gifts. Swing by when you want a quick mood lift, a birthday save, or an excuse to wander shelves until something insists on coming home.

From the University City newsletter, October 1, 2026

UMSL Triton Store keeps it simple for the UMSL crowd and nearby Florissant neighbors with textbooks, school supplies, TritonTech gear, and plenty of UMSL-branded clothing and gifts. Need caps, gowns, or a last-minute hoodie? They’ve got you covered, plus helpful ways to compare and reserve course materials.

From the Florissant newsletter, October 15, 2026

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 St. Louis newsletter, October 23, 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 Park Hills newsletter, October 21, 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...

From the St. Louis newsletter, August 30, 2026

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

With St. Louis roots and a world-famous reputation, Killer Vintage is where locals find heirloom Fenders, Gibsons, and thumpy amps that still have bite, plus trusted repair and appraisals. Touring bands drop in, beginners feel welcome, and every rack holds a little rock history.

From the St. Louis newsletter, October 9, 2026

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 St. Louis newsletter, October 30, 2026

Just Vinyl and Crafts is a friendly, downtown St. Louis go-to for custom DTF transfers, gang sheets, and a seriously deep bench of HTV, adhesive vinyl, sublimation blanks, and printable sheets. Perfect for last-minute team shirts, school fundraisers, or side-hustle drops...

From the St. Louis newsletter, October 16, 2026