Love writing letters? Can’t get enough of your favorite books? Looking to start exercising in the new year? Then you’re in the right place. Make your leisure time much more enjoyable with a trip to these fun stores.
By Ashley Davidson, Megan Herr, Kate Oczypok, and Kristen Schott
The Fun Shop
The name says it all. Take one step inside this homey, never-ending shop, and you’re bound to get sucked into searching for that something special. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, you discover yet another room filled with home items, lovely stationery, books, puzzles, and every kitchen accessory you can imagine. The Fun Shop is a dream spot for finding a gift that really stands out—especially if you know someone who’s a fan of foxes. Pro tip: Staffers will gift-wrap your item for you in the store. 117 W. Washington St., Middleburg —M.H.
Dig! Records & Vintage
Dig! Records feels a bit like going back in time, in the best way possible. From its wide selection of used vinyl to the vintage-clothing section upstairs, this shop is a must for anyone who grooves on the past. Some records are priced as low as $1 to $3, and those looking to sell or exchange their own vinyl are in luck here. The shop offers buyback/trade options, too. 212-C Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg —M.H.
Conte’s Bike Shop
If you’re in here, chances are you’re a bike enthusiast—and you’re not opposed to throwing down a pretty penny for a new ride. Part shop, part repair center, this somewhat spare space (the products are arranged in an easy-to-see manner, rather than an overwhelming jumble on the floor) sells road bikes in a range of tire sizes, as well as mountain and other types from outfitters Specialized and Cannondale. Need gear? That’s here, too: surprisingly affordable helmets, attire, Garmin watches, and Clif Bloks chews—our go-to for free-wheeling energy. 1100 King St., Alexandria —K.S.
Pacers Running
Whether you’re an elite runner, a casual half-marathoner, or just beginning to explore the sport, Pacers is the place to shop. The specialty running store has been decking out NoVA runners from head to toe for 30 years, offering high-performance footwear, apparel, nutrition, and more from brands like Nike, Adidas, Brooks, New Balance, and Hoka, to name just a few. Walk into Pacers, with its wall-to-wall gear and expert employees eager to fit you in the perfect shoe, and you’ll very likely walk out with a reinvigorated passion—or newly gained appreciation—for one of the region’s most popular outdoor activities. 10420 North St., Fairfax —A.D.
Scrawl Books
The smell of books hits you as soon as you step into Scrawl Books, an indie shop in Reston. New titles are changed out frequently, so it’s fun to come back and see what has appeared on the shelves. Kids love all the children’s books and stuffed animals from their favorite reads. Pick up some Scrawl Books swag, like a black mug perfect for sipping your favorite beverage while you read your newest find, or a Scrawl Books tote bag for hauling all your favorite tomes. 11911 Freedom Dr., Reston —K.O.
Feature image courtesy Dig! Records & Vintage
This story originally ran in our December issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
