BACK BAY. You'll know you've walked into a different kind of store upon entering this spacious room with soaring ceilings, hardwood floors, and eclectic decor. Peruse a stylish, comfortable line of furniture, or browse through hip clothes, Dirty Girl bath accessories (said to be the rage in Hollywood) and Burt's Bees skin care products. Perfect items for the modern, urban woman.

CAMBRIDGE. Founded in 1932, this popular bookstore offers a vast inventory of informative texts, from literature and history to biography, criticism, and fiction. A knowledgeable, friendly staff stand poised to assist with special orders, and visitors can also buy Harvard University clothing. In addition, used books can be bought or sold.

CAMBRIDGE. For more than twenty years, this local enterprise has been a favorite with families, thanks to a delightful collection of children's toys, games, and books. Named for a children's story, the shop specializes in merchandise for infants and pre-teen children, such as doll house components, science and travel toys, art project materials, and sports equipment.

BACK BAY. In business since 1796, Shreve Crump and Low is a leading authority on American and English furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, this company is also renowned for its fine assortment of art, silver, lamps, Chinese porcelain, as well as English glass.

BEACON HILL. At this charming gift shop, you'll encounter lots of unique items to take back home! Among the the things that may catch your eye are black and white photos of New England, garden accessories, soaps, candles, painted furniture, napkins, picnic baskets, decorative pillows, handbags, silver trays, and hand-painted signs.