BEST CAMERA STORE
Camera Land
Camera Land is a photographer’s paradise, with countless brands included in the merchandise. While “photographer” isn’t a catch-all label, Camera Land is a catch-all store for everyone who holds a camera, whether it’s an underwater adventure or instant film camera. It’s not just cameras of all types. Camera Land has more accessories than you can think of, studio and location lighting, and even sport optics, like binoculars, riflescopes, and rangefinders. The Camera Land Learning Center also provides a variety of classes, so you can master your new equipment. Show off what you made with your gear at Camera Land with film developing and printing services. With photo restoration, equipment repair, and weekly photo tips, Camera Land is the one-stop hub for all things photo. 720 Old Bethpage Rd., Old Bethpage, 516-217-1000, cameralandny.com
BEST HOBBY STORE
Gotham City Hobbies / BattleCityGym
Gotham City Hobbies is a gamers’ paradise. Whether you’re into playing cards, board games, or role-playing games, this fun store has a great variety of games and merchandise. Everything from Dungeons & Dragons sets and Pokemon Trading Card Games to eclectic board games that you can’t find anywhere else is available at Gotham City Hobbies. The shop even offers preorders on the latest new card sets and other products. Plus it holds events nearly every day, welcoming gameplayers to get together and duel in fun, friendly matches, helping to build community around gaming hobbies right at the West Babylon spot. If you can’t get enough of Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh! and other popular games, Gotham City Hobbies is the place for you. 70 NY-109, West Babylon, 631-526-9404, gothamcityhobbies.com
BEST JEWELRY STORE
From Italy With Love
From Italy With Love has been selling beautiful, high-quality fine jewelry to Long Islanders since 1983. The family-owned business has stunning jewelry for any occasion, whether you’re about to propose, give a gift to a special someone, or need to buy your own jewelry for an upcoming event. The experts behind the counter have decades of experience to help you choose the right look and fit. And From Italy With Love has it all – from engagement rings and bridal settings to tennis bracelets, diamond stud earrings, and designer watches. The jewelry store is best known for the solid craftsmanship of its pieces. So head on down and choose from its impressive selection of designs to find an unforgettable gift for someone special or for yourself. 473 Old Country Rd. Unit A, Westbury, 516-333-3702, fromitalywithlovejewelers.com
BEST RECORD STORE
Looney Tunes
When you enter Looney Tunes in search of new vinyl, you’re taking part in a tradition that spans back a half century. The West Babylon record store has provided Long Island with the gift of music for more than 50 years, making them something of an unofficial landmark. Whether you’re a devout audiophile, a casual listener, a longtime collector of oddities and rarities, or just a curious newcomer, Looney Tunes has something for you. Along with their sprawling collection of vinyl records, they have a broad array of other goodies such as CDs, cassettes, music memorabilia, Blu-rays, books, T-shirts, autographed items, and record store exclusives. And always keep an eye out for their live shows and events… you never know who might show up. 31 Brookvale Ave., West Babylon, 631-587-7722, looneytuneslongisland.com
BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE
Remember Yesteryears Antique Mall
Who doesn’t love a good thrift shopping outing? For used goods that come at low prices, thrifting is the way to go. Depending on what you’re looking for, though, your thrifting trip could be hit or miss. More times than not, a visit to Remember Yesteryears in Oakdale will be a hit because of its wide selection of items, from furniture and jewelry to clothing and military paraphernalia. There is no knowing what you will discover amongst these walls, but one thing is for sure, it is easy to get lost — so try to go there with a plan in mind. This store gives you the unique opportunity to shop collections from 120 dealers all under one roof. Take your thrift shopping to the next level and head over to Remember Yesteryears. 901 Montauk Hwy., Oakdale, 631-654-3052, rememberyesteryears.com
