The best book, hobby & craft shops in Racine

“Thirst Books is Milwaukee’s romance bookstore, fluent in every trope from romantasy and small towns & cowboys to LGBTQIA+ favorites and dark delights. Expect signed and special editions, a friendly book club, and Blind Date with a Book when you want your next read picked for you.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Vintage & Modern Books is a downtown Racine independent bookstore stocked with thoughtfully curated secondhand and new reads, from vintage sci-fi, fantasy, and comics to Dungeons & Dragons modules, signed and collectible volumes, poetry, horror, and classic cookbooks, perfect for finding your next rabbit hole this…”

From the Racine newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Whether your instrument needs a quick fix, your kid wants to try something new, or you’re finally committing to lessons, Family Music Center has you covered with rentals, sales, repairs, and lessons. Serving Milwaukee since 1994, they’ll help you sound good and actually stick with it this time.”

“Beads, jewelry, watches, and jewelry-making services as well as vintage bead necklaces.”

“Chain carrying a variety of arts & crafts materials, plus party supplies, fabric & home-decor items.”

“Familiar, long-running store featuring new instruments and rentals to buy or lease, and quality repairs and maintenance.”

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

“Old-school shop featuring sewing machines & related furniture, plus fabrics, accessories & classes.”

“Familiar music store featuring new and used guitars, amps and drums.”

“Friendly shop offering a mix of new, used and vintage guitars and amps.”

“Independent record store buying, selling & trading new & pre-owned music (LPs, CDs).”

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

“Cute shop known for a wide selection of greeting cards and gift-wrap, along with art supplies.”

“Friendly folks perform tuneups, fretboard maintenance and stringing on guitars (electric, acoustic) and other instruments (amps, drums, basses).”