12/15/06

Everything you don't need but desperately want

by spudsocks

I've been going to Archie's as long as I can remember, ever since it was on Stone Way, and it's never failed to disappoint or provide anything less than a stellar visit. There are so many good gift items here, from the novelty toys to the strange foreign instruction posters to the assorted odds and ends (New Kids on the Block trading cards, fingertip rubber monsters, magic 8, bacon strip band aids). There's also a deep and wonderful selection of postcards, including scenes of old Seattle, old movie posters and other strange scenes--buy some and send 'em to your friends. I seriously do about 50% of my holiday shopping here, year after year.

• Pros: The amazing selection
• Cons: Can be waaaay busy around Christmas

04/17/06

A playful kingdom of kitsch, every item is designed to shock or amuse.

by Contributor

In Short
Odd toys have cultivated this store's cult-like following since 1983. Bins and bins of cheap rubber animals and trinkets make this a popular spot to shop for stocking stuffers--or for spiders to slip into sock drawers. The fun selection includes a "punching puppet" nun, the classic rubber chicken and the hugely popular martian poppy thing. Find a full array of costumes, bloody masks and body parts in the weeks leading up to Halloween.

05/02/04

Novelty heaven

by plumeria_petal

Kitsch, kitsch and more kitsch! Love this place. It's a bit overwhelming for first-timers but get over it and shop on! Give yourself plenty of time to peruse the novelty toys. I'm a big fan of the tiki stuff, smoking donkey, bubble-gum cigarettes, devil duckies, nodders, barista action figure and JP Patches action figure. I am anxiously awaiting the expansion into the space across from the parking lot.

• Pros: inexpensive, great selection, eclectic