During tight economic times, the temptation to shop for cheap deals on Amazon or at Walmart is real—but there’s something special about putting your dollars back into the local community to help keep Reno weird, wild and wonderful.
Fortunately, our city has been blessed with a few quirky new stores this year that are perfect for finding gifts for all the unique folks in your life, as well as goodies you won’t find in big-box stores.
Hall of horrors
Terror
670 Alvaro St., Reno
terrornv.square.site
Instagram: @terror_nv
For the horror fans in your life, look no further than Terror, Reno’s newest haunt for all things creepy and spine-chilling. This shop, which opened in June, is a paradise for those obsessed with the dark and gory. From spooky collectibles to horror-themed board games, Terror has it all.
The offerings include neon-green bat Crocs, tombstone bags, detailed figurines, merch from late-’80s sci-fi horror classic Killer Klowns From Outer Space, and macabre home decor items featuring everything from Jaws to Chucky. Don’t forget to visit the back room, which features a full replica of The Exorcist bedroom complete with demonic Regan and exorcist masks for purchase.
Throughout December, Terror is hosting a toy drive to benefit underserved local kids. Bring in a new toy to donate, and receive 10% off your holiday purchase.
Beaucoup books
Thistle & Nightshade
5365 Mae Anne Ave., No. A38, Reno
linktr.ee/thistleandnightshade
Instagram: @thistle.nightshade
With the recent closure of Sundance Books & Music, it’s much harder to find the perfect gift for the bookworms in your life. Luckily, Thistle & Nightshade, which proudly brands itself as “a bookstore for weirdos and others,” opened on Mae Anne Avenue this past August.
This shop is a haven for readers who cherish the odd, the eclectic and the diverse. The collection spans genres from woodworking guides to science fiction, and there’s a wonderful children’s section, complete with a colorful rainbow mural that makes it feel extra magical. In addition to books, Thistle & Nightshade features a thoughtfully curated selection of locally made gifts including jewelry, aromatic candles, quirky stickers and artisan teas. One standout item this season is the “Books Are Magic” advent calendar, perfect for any bibliophile.
Goth essentials
Heathens
3652 S. Virginia St., Unit C3, Reno
Instagram: @heathensapparel775
Do you have a spooky sibling or a goth partner for whom you need to shop? Check out Heathens, an alternative clothing store that opened in April, offering an array of dark and edgy fashion.
The racks are filled with spiderweb sweatpants, leather harnesses, striped crop tops, platform boots, pumpkin duffle bags and classic fishnets. The store also stocks occult-inspired home goods and figurines, including Baphomet statues and cute zombie bears in tiny coffins to satisfy your goth decor cravings. Heathens is also a great place to get yourself something dark and fabulous for holiday parties this winter.
Heathens focuses on keeping prices affordable. There’s even a sale rack in the back of the shop stuffed with sweaters, leggings and lacy dresses.
More local gems worth exploring
Aside from these new additions, Reno has several established independent shops that are perfect for the holiday season.
Radical Cat: This indie bookstore and cat-adoption space recently moved from Wells Avenue to Wolf City Tattoo’s former location on Virginia Street. As the name suggests, it’s perfect for book lovers who are searching for more radical titles and feminist authors. 1500 S. Virginia St., Reno; theradicalcat.square.site
Glass Die: A board game bar with a vast selection of games—ideal for the role-playing-game nerd on your list. 675 Holcomb Ave., Reno; theglassdie.com
Three Moons Trading Company: Specializing in witchy goods, crystals, herbs and candles for those who are seeking a little magic—or trying to create some. 1515 S. Virginia St., Reno; threemoonstrading.com
Coffee N’ Comics: Your one-stop shop for comic books, graphic novels and geeky collectibles, paired with a delicious cup of coffee. 940 W. Moana Lane, Reno, and 1235 Baring Blvd., Sparks; coffeencomics.com
Natural Selection: Two words: bones and plants! With a fantastic array of strange bits and bobs, Natural Selection is where you can grab a claw or a cactus for that sweet collector type in your life. 39 St. Lawrence Ave., Reno; naturalselectionstore.com