Since the completion of Acorn Alley, the shopping scene in Kent has certainly expanded. Students now have a wide variety of shopping options available almost at their doorsteps. And that’s what Ron Burbick, the financier of the more than $6 million project, was going for; keeping Kent State students close to home.

Here are just a few of the great shopping options in Kent.

Sewing

Katie Brooke Quilt Shoppe

Named after the owner’s two granddaughters, the Katie Brooke Quilt Shoppe is the perfect local sewing shop. Not only does the store offer a wide variety of fabrics and supplies to suit your quilting and sewing needs, but there is always a friendly employee available to give advice on your current project.

Snacks

The Main St. Snack Shoppe:

Sure, you could buy snacks at a large chain store, but local is always better. The Main St. Snack Shoppe is locally run (by Kent State students, actually) and all its products come from Northeast Ohio. Located in Acorn Alley, it’s only a 10-minute walk from north campus. So if you’re hungry between classes, good snacks aren’t far away.

Alcohol

101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall

“Just because we serve you, doesn’t mean we like you.” This slogan for 101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall, borrowed from the 1994 Kevin Smith movie “Clerks,” shows off the personality of the store’s owners. Two students who couldn’t find jobs after college started the store. The store is now number two in Ohio for the largest selection of beer. They offer more than 700 different types of beer, 1,800 wines, coolers and a selection of liquor.

Organic Food

Kent Natural Foods Co-op

This food store offers a variety of options for those who eat a little differently. According to its website, the Kent Natural Foods Co-op has brought chemical and additive-free food and beauty products to Kent for almost 40 years. Patrons can stop in for some advice on special diets or allergies and can become a member to get a discount.

Music

Spin-More Records

Looking for a place that doesn’t sell only mainstream music? Then this is the place for you! Located on Main Street, Spin-More Records is a convenient place for students to discover new music. The store offers new and recycled CDs, vinyl and cassette tapes.

Books

Last Exit Books

When owner Jason L. Merlene graduated from Kent State with an accounting degree, he decided to combine his education with an interest in arts and Last Exit Books was born. They offer used and remaindered books for half the publisher price or less. Located just off of Main Street, they’re only a hop, skip and a jump from campus.

Clothing

Rehab Vintage

If you’re into thrifting, this is the store for you. Rehab vintage sells hip, trendy vintage clothing, said employee Julia Provenvano. The store has only been open a year and a half, and has been doing good business. They get most of their clothing from websites and wholesale stores, but also sell jewelry and other vintage accessories. The store has also worked with the Kent State Fashion School in creating a vintage t-shirt competition. The products were sold in the store when the competition ended.

Odds ‘n Ends

Off the Wagon Toys

Other cool stores to check out:

• Puff ‘n Stuff

• Uniquely Yours Boutique

• Figleaf

Contact news editor Allison Smith at [email protected].