Home / Philadelphia / Shops
22 LGBTQ+ Shops & Boutiques in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia has 22 gay store listed here — from neighbourhood spots to well-known destinations. Whether you're looking for gay shops philadelphia or something quieter, use the listings below to find your next spot.
Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ shops scene stands out in this directory for its size relative to the city's overall LGBTQ+ venue count. Locals and visitors alike have a wide range of options to browse, from curated boutiques to specialty stores. Kin Boutique tops the local listings with a perfect 5-star rating, reflecting the quality found throughout the city's shops.
- Most Reviewed
- Name (A–Z)
- Price: Low to High
- Price: High to Low
Showing all 22 venues on this page
Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni's Room
If you love queer literature and vintage finds, this is your spot. Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni's Room is the oldest gay bookstore in the country, operating since 1973. It's now run in partnership with Philly AIDS Thrift, so your purchase supports HIV/AIDS services. The space spans two floors packed with books, movies, CDs, comics, magazines, newspapers, jewelry, accessories, and clothing. It's a lively, casual spot that draws a mixed LGBTQ crowd from their twenties to forties. Yelp confirms it's dog friendly, and hours are consistent: open daily 11am to 8pm except Sunday till 7pm. The staff are known for genuine service, and they also sell online. Regular author events feature top queer writers. It's in Washington Square West, easy to reach on foot or by transit.
Danny's Midnight Confessions
Danny's Midnight Confessions is open 24 hours a day, every day, so you can shop whenever the mood strikes. It's the Gayborhood's local sex shop, established in 1979, and it sells adult toys, fetish apparel, leather, and poppers. The vibe is no-frills and mixed gay-straight. Owner Barry has been with the company for over 30 years and emphasizes product knowledge and customer satisfaction. The shop also has a peep show in the back. It's dog friendly. For a more daytime experience, Philly AIDS Thrift is just a short walk away.
Philly AIDS Thrift
Philly AIDS Thrift is a thrift store that funds AIDS organizations, not just a place to shop. The stock is constantly refreshed with cool donations, and the book selection is impressive. Prices are predictably modest for a shop in the South Street neighborhood near E Passyunk Ave. It's dog-friendly, so you can bring your pup while you browse. Open daily from 11am to 8pm (7pm on Sundays), it's an easy stop. If you're exploring South Street, you might also check out Reading Terminal Market for more local finds.
Reading Terminal Market
The scent of freshly baked pretzels and roasting coffee fills the air at Reading Terminal Market, Philadelphia's food paradise. Established in 1893 and housed in a National Historic Landmark building, this vast market is one of the country's oldest and largest farmers markets. You'll find Amish baked goods, homemade ice cream, fresh pierogies, and scrapple, plus local honey, produce, meats, and seafood. Beyond food, there are booksellers, florists, linens, and crafts. The crowd is mixed-gay-straight, making it a welcoming spot for everyone. If you're visiting, go during a weekday morning to avoid the lunch rush. The market offers beer and wine, free wifi, and brunch. Grab a pretzel from the Amish stand and browse the shops for unique gifts. Philly AIDS Thrift is nearby for more shopping. It's a true Philly institution, super local and super Philly.
Halloween
In Washington Square West, a tiny sign reading "Halloween" marks the entrance to one of Philadelphia's most eccentric jewelry destinations. The two-story Victorian interior is packed with custom jewelry, antique curios, and oddities like naked-men sculptures and a squid-themed balustrade. It's part antique shop, part cabinet of wonders. The vibe is more H.P. Lovecraft novel than costume store. Hours are limited: Tuesday through Friday 12-5:30pm, Saturday 11am-3:30pm. It's easy to miss, but that's part of the charm. Regulars know to budget extra time to browse the endless bric-a-brac. Worth a side trip from Reading Terminal Market.
Metro Mens Clothing
This men's clothing store opened in 2009 because its owner couldn't find good options in Philadelphia. It carries brands like Ben Sherman, Scotch & Soda, and Penguin, plus swimwear year round. The staff are knowledgeable and you'll get a free cocktail while browsing. It's on East Passyunk Ave, surrounded by great restaurants. Hit Philly AIDS Thrift nearby if you're after vintage finds.
Doggie Style Pets Pine
In Philadelphia's Washington Square West neighborhood, Doggie Style Pets Pine is a local pet supply store that's part of a small Philly chain. They carry the basics like food and treats, plus clothing and accessories for dogs and cats. The store has been serving the area for almost a decade. Yelp currently lists the business as potentially permanently closed, so call ahead before visiting. If it's still open, you'll find standard hours most days until 8pm, with later closing on Fridays and Saturdays.
Modern Eye
Unlike typical glasses shops, Modern Eye is a doctor-owned optical boutique with locations in University City and Center City. You get state-of-the-art eye exams from optometrists Dr. Chris Anastasiou or Dr. Bryan Machamer, plus a curated collection of over 40 global frames brands like Alain Mikli, Mykita, and Oliver Peoples. The Washington Square West store sits at 13th and Walnut, making it an easy stop while exploring the neighborhood. Prices start at $69 for glasses, and the staff won't pressure you. Regulars appreciate the relaxed vibe and the fact that you're supporting a local, independent practice. If you're early for your appointment, grab a bite from nearby Reading Terminal Market before heading over.
Duross & Langel - Bath, Spa & Skincare
You'll find a relaxed, welcoming crowd at this LGBTQ+-owned and women-led shop in Washington Square West. Co-owners Steve Duross and James Langel personally make every soap, lotion, and bath product by hand. They're known for generous free samples and bold, memorable scents. The vibe is friendly and attentive, with staff who clearly love what they do.
Boyds Philadelphia
One Yelp reviewer sums it up: this isn't the hippest store in Philadelphia, but it is the place to shop for well tailored, dressy attire. Boyds Philadelphia has been a family-owned luxury retailer since 1938, now in its fourth generation. They offer men's and women's ready-to-wear and accessories from over 250 designers. Think tailored clothing, sportswear, dress shirts, ties, and women's designer pieces. The vibe is traditional and service-focused, not trendy. You'll find Boyds in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood. Hours are consistent Monday through Saturday, 11am to 6pm. If you're looking for a classic suit or a luxury accessory, this is your spot. They also have an online store. For a more eclectic shopping experience, you could also check out Philly AIDS Thrift nearby.
Open House Store
Open House Store is an LGBTQ-owned home decor shop in Philadelphia's Market East neighborhood, known for modern urban designs in furniture, gifts, and sundries. The store has a 4.2 Yelp rating from 121 reviews, with a charm that keeps locals coming back. You'll find everything from bedding to kitchen gadgets here. Hours are extended on Wednesdays through Saturdays until 8pm, with Sunday hours from noon to 6pm. It's a convenient stop after exploring Reading Terminal Market, just nearby.
S U G A R C U B E
What sets this Old City boutique apart is its GPhilly award as Philadelphia Magazine's best gay-friendly shop. S U G A R C U B E offers fashion-forward clothing and accessories for men and women, plus design-focused goods. It's more than a clothing store, it's a curated experience.
Benjamin Lovell Shoes
Most shoe stores skimp on men's selection. Benjamin Lovell Shoes goes all in. This Rittenhouse Square shop has carried men's styles from Mephisto, Ecco, and Clarks since 1991. It's a destination for men who want shoes built for both style and comfort. The vibe is straightforward and functional, not flashy. You'll find a curated mix of dress shoes, casual sneakers, and boots. Prices land in the $35-60 range. Weekday hours are 10am to 6pm, with an 11am open on Sunday. There's a second location on South Street if this one doesn't have your size. Parking is mostly metered street spots, but the shop is easy to reach on foot from nearby bars and restaurants.
Omoi Zakka Shop
Omoi Zakka Shop is a Japanese pop fashion boutique in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square. Think of it as Sanrio for grown ups. The shop stocks clothing, stationery, and cute kitschy gifts that appeal to fans of all things Japanese. The vibe is playful and nostalgic, with a curated selection that feels both whimsical and sophisticated. Plan your visit Tuesday through Saturday when the shop is open from 11am to 7pm. Mondays open at noon. You'll find the store at its Rittenhouse Square location, easy to pair with a stroll through the neighborhood. Don't expect a huge space; it's cozy and packed with treasures.
Verde
Verde is open daily from 11am (noon on Sunday) until 7-8pm, making it a convenient stop for shopping in Philadelphia's Washington Square West. It's the perfect gift shop offering indie designer t-shirts, fine jewelry, accessories, and gourmet chocolate. The vibe is curated and upscale, with a focus on beautiful, giftable items. Yelp categories include home decor, jewelry, and accessories, and the store has a solid 4/5 rating from 115 reviews. For a local aside, you might also check out Philly AIDS Thrift nearby for a different shopping vibe. Best time to visit? Weekday afternoons are quieter, but Thursday through Saturday evenings stay open until 8pm.
Delicious Boutique
Step inside the circus-inspired boutique designed by Philadelphia artist Mark Brodzik. Delicious Boutique specializes in custom corsets made in-house, alongside edgy mens and womens alternative fashion from independent designers since 1995. No mass production here. They stock pieces for burners, steampunks, goths, leather enthusiasts, and more. It's the East Coast's premiere alt-fashion destination. Owners Psydde and Amy Delicious have been designing for decades. You'll find handmade corsets, festival wear, and leather accessories. Check their pop-up shops in cities like NYC and Chicago. If you're in Northern Liberties, stop by Thursday through Sunday. It's a short walk from other neighborhood spots like Modern Eye. The boutique also hosts in-store events and art openings.
Big Blue Marble Bookstore
Big Blue Marble Bookstore is open Tue-Sat 11am-5:30pm and Sun 11am-4pm, making it an easy stop for a weekend afternoon. This cozy indie bookstore in Mt. Airy Village has a surprisingly large LGBTQ+ section and a strong children's section, plus gifts like unique cards and natural toys. It's woman-led and focuses on diverse books for diverse readers. Grab a coffee and head upstairs to read on a couch while the outside world moves on. If you're exploring Philly, continue to Reading Terminal Market for food after browsing.
South Street Art Mart
You might expect an art mart to be a bit generic, but South Street Art Mart is different. It's packed to the brim with trinkets and accessories made by local LGBTQ+ artists. Rainbow enamel pins, gay graphic tees, and more fill the eclectic shelves. The shop is LGBTQ+-owned, BIPOC-owned, and women-led. It's as weird and cooky as it is amazing, and you'll find things you won't see anywhere else. It's also dog friendly, so feel free to bring your pup along. Open daily from noon, with later hours on Thursday through Saturday. Close to Philly AIDS Thrift if you're making a day of it. For a quick browse or a deep dive, the store's cozy layout invites you to explore. Regulars know to check back often because the local artist inventory changes frequently. It's a true neighborhood gem for finding one-of-a-kind queer gifts.
Rescue Spa
Walking into Rescue Spa, you'll notice the calm, intentional space before anything else. It's modern but not cold, luxurious without being intimidating. Founded in 2004 by master esthetician Danuta Mieloch, this full-service spa offers deeply personalized facials that adjust in real time based on your skin's needs that day. Treatments blend hands-on technique with advanced technology like microcurrent, LED, and ultrasound, used with restraint and precision. The retail boutique features a tightly curated selection of best-in-class brands, including Danucera, Biologique Recherche, MBR, and Valmont. Every product feels intentional, not filler. Services include facials, massage, and high-tech treatments. The crowd here tends to be 30-somethings and up, mixed gay and straight, with an upscale vibe. Yelp reviewers give it 4.2 stars from 205 reviews. Hours are generous: weekdays and Saturday 8:30am to 8:30pm, Sunday 10am to 7pm. If you're skin-obsessed, the retail section alone is worth a visit.
Kin Boutique
This isn't your typical boutique with one-size-fits-all styling. Kin Boutique is a womxn's clothing store that prioritizes inclusivity and comfort, from everyday wear to party dresses. Woman-owned and opened in 2017 by former editorial stylist Joey Clark, the shop carries brands like Senso, Monrow, and local designs by Voloshin and Rosen & Co. Candles. The vibe is laid-back, with personalized customer service that makes shopping feel easy. It's dog friendly, so feel free to bring your pup along. Hours are limited to afternoons, Tuesday through Sunday.
Hello World Modern Mercantile
Located in University City, this store started in 2000 in Philadelphia's gayborhood and has grown into a go-to spot for home decor and gifts. Owner J's love for mid-century design and eclectic style shows in the inventory, which includes contemporary furniture, custom upholstery, vegan handbags, and local designer jewelry. It's a place where you can find everything from unique gifts to statement pieces for your home. The shop keeps consistent hours, open Monday through Friday 11am-6pm and weekends 10am-5pm. Regulars appreciate the mix of affordable quality and personal service. If you're exploring University City, you can easily pair a stop here with a visit to Reading Terminal Market for lunch or snacks.
The Art Shop at Moore College of Art & Design (Closed Temporarily)
Unlike typical galleries where artists pay to hang their work, this shop exclusively sells creations by Moore College of Art & Design alumnae and students. Run by the college, it keeps prices accessible so you can actually buy something you love. Currently closed temporarily, but it's worth checking back for fresh pieces from emerging artists.
No venues match these filters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many LGBTQ+ friendly shops are listed in Philadelphia?
There are 22 shops listed on this page for Philadelphia, PA.
Is Philadelphia a good city for LGBTQ+ shopping compared to other cities?
Yes, Philadelphia has an unusually large shops scene relative to its overall LGBTQ+ venues, meaning a higher proportion of its LGBTQ+ spaces are shops than in many other cities in this directory.
What is the top-rated shop in Philadelphia according to the directory?
Kin Boutique is the top-rated shop, holding a perfect 5-star rating.
Gay Shops in nearby cities