The best book, hobby & craft shops in Allentown

“Retailer buying, selling & trading CDs, books & video games, plus DVDs & vinyl records.”

“Whether you're brushing up on tafsir, hunting a solid seerah, or nudging the kids toward something better than more screen time, Mecca Books curates traditional Islamic titles, Arabic texts, and tasawwuf gems, plus prayer beads, rugs, and thoughtful gifts, connecting local readers with scholars and authors.”

From the Bethlehem newsletter, September 22, 2026

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

“Beachead Comics is Allentown’s friendly neighborhood spot for the latest issues, deep-cut vintage finds, and graphic novels from DC, Marvel, Image and more. Swing by to browse figures, statues, toys, and Pop Heads, then grab a seat to debate Superman vs. Batman or the eternal Star Wars vs.”

From the Allentown newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Whether you're chasing a boutique guitar tone, leveling up your home studio, or hunting that serendipitous vintage find, Centro Musical pairs premium instruments with pro audio know how and real talk.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Montero Violins keeps Lehigh Valley players sounding sharp with quality violins, violas, cellos and basses to buy or lease, expert repairs and restorations, and private lessons. They also stock sheet music, instructional methods, and the reeds, oils and other essentials your woodwind and brass friends always forget.”

From the Allentown newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Russo Music Philadelphia is where pedal curiosity meets real deal guidance, with walls of guitars, amps, drums, synths, and recording gear plus techs who’ll help you slot that new pedal into your signal flow. Stop in, try everything, and leave sounding suspiciously professional.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Whether you're crate-digging for vinyl, tracking down CDs you loved in '03, or grabbing a used instrument or accessory you swear you'll practice with, Rustic Music keeps it real with a rotating secondhand stash, plus they buy and trade. A quick Philly run that pays off for Bethlehem collectors.”

From the Bethlehem newsletter, September 6, 2026

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

“DiPinto Guitars is the Philly go-to for distinctive electrics and basses, from Galaxie and Mach IV to the Safari and Custom Safari Line. They also stock new and used gear and handle repairs, so your next riff or resurrected favorite is basically one visit away.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Dutch Label Shop helps Philly makers level up with custom woven, printed, or iron-on labels, plus patches, hang tags, and care labels. Orders ship from New Jersey with fast delivery, low minimums, expert-reviewed proofs, and a money back guarantee, so your gear looks retail-ready without the headache.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni's Room is the country’s oldest running queer and feminist bookstore, celebrating 50 years, with shelves packed with new and used reads and staff-curated finds like queer horror. Pop in this week, scoop a tote, and support those living with HIV/AIDS, or join the Philly Queer Book Club.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).”

“Since 1973, Hawk Music has been the Lehigh Valley go-to for getting instruments fixed right, renting band and orchestra gear, and lining up lessons on everything from guitar and drums to sax, strings, and piano. New owner and fresh digs, same heart... perfect excuse to finally practice.”

From the Bethlehem newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Vibrant yarn shop that also offers knitting and crochet classes, plus needles.”

“Bluebond Guitars is the neighborhood spot for vintage and used finds, pro repairs from an in-house luthier, and lessons on guitar, bass, drums, keys, and voice. Feeling brave? Their Adult Band Program rehearses you with a coach then puts you onstage at their own venue.”

From the Philadelphia newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Music store with guitars, keyboards, and amps, plus DJ and lighting equipment, and recording gear.”