2 LGBTQ+ Shops & Boutiques in Rochester, NY

The vibe at Parkleigh is equal parts upscale boutique and whimsical treasure hunt, earning it the tagline 'an upscale boutique...uber fun!' and decades of loyalty from Rochester shoppers. It's a gay-friendly fixture on Park Avenue with over 60 years of history, voted Rochester's Best Gift Shop every year from 2011 to 2021. The store carries an eclectic mix: MacKenzie-Childs pottery, Jellycat plush, Blue Q socks, Kiehl's skincare, gourmet coffee and tea, local artisan goods, and more spread across cozy departments. It started as a pharmacy in the 1970s before evolving into the boutique you see today. You'll find separate MacKenzie-Childs shop that's closed Sundays and Mondays, while the main store is open Tuesday through Saturday 10am-5:30pm and Sunday 11am-3pm. Dogs are welcome inside, so you might spot a friendly pup browsing with their owner. It's a great stop on Park Avenue near Goodman Street, and if you're exploring more local shops, Craft Company No. 6 is another nearby spot worth checking out.

Craft Company No. 6 operates out of a historic firehouse that once housed horse-drawn steam engines for the Rochester Fire Department. The building's industrial past contrasts with the curated collection of handmade art, jewelry, pottery, woodwork, and glass from artists across the U.S. and Canada. Inside, you'll find rotating displays of unique gifts and home decor, with a focus on craftsmanship. Owner Donna Wobschall took over in late 2022 after decades in retail management. The shop is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pup along while browsing. Sunday hours start at noon, and you're welcome to wander the alley-style layout or chat with staff about the artists' backgrounds.