The best book, hobby & craft shops in Altoona

4 book, hobby & craft shops we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Hobbies, Books, & Crafts · 4 places · showing the latest additions first

The Music Emporium, Inc.

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Because that E string always picks the worst time to pop, The Music Emporium, Inc. keeps Altoona players covered with new guitar strings,…

2606 Plank Rd

“Because that E string always picks the worst time to pop, The Music Emporium, Inc. keeps Altoona players covered with new guitar strings, Levy's straps, solid instrument cables, cases, and the tiny parts you always forget. Quick restock this week, cleaner tone by the weekend.”

From the Altoona newsletter, September 4, 2026

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FYE

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Entertainment retail chain selling new & pre-owned music, movies & video games, plus T-shirts.

5580 Goods Ln #2124

“Entertainment retail chain selling new & pre-owned music, movies & video games, plus T-shirts.”

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BANDMAN

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Bandman is the local go-to for wind players, with Morrel Fine Wind Instruments, a full slate of woodwind, brass, percussion and electronics…

5828 Ohio Ave

“Bandman is the local go-to for wind players, with Morrel Fine Wind Instruments, a full slate of woodwind, brass, percussion and electronics repair, plus a rental program and online shop... basically everything you need to keep the music moving in Altoona.”

From the Altoona newsletter, September 22, 2026

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GOSPEL sounds Music Equipment Store

Hobbies, Books, & Crafts

Outfit your church band, school event, or backyard jam with Gospel Sounds Music Equipment Store, selling guitars, drums, keyboards, amps,…

900 N 2nd St

“Outfit your church band, school event, or backyard jam with Gospel Sounds Music Equipment Store, selling guitars, drums, keyboards, amps, speakers, microphones and complete sound systems, plus sound system rental if you need it.”

From the Altoona newsletter, September 9, 2026

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