BROOKSIDE. This popular shop features an array of items related to Kansas City, with options ranging from barbecue sauce to apple butter. It also stocks a good selection of regional books and gift items combined into attractive gift baskets. Steaks, cookies, sauces, popcorn and spices are just a few of the local items for sale.

COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA. This shop draws visitors by virtue of its interesting window displays and great merchandise. Offerings include golf accoutrements, cigars, and tobacco-related goods. A very helpful sales staff is happy to assist customers in finding that perfect gift. Very masculine decor.

WESTPORT. Catering to local skateboarders (and more far-flung ones through its online store), Loma Vista delivers all the gear, clothing, and accessories that young-in-spirit daredevils could desire. Get ramps and rails, shoes, decks, trucks, and protective gear­ anything you could need to build, upgrade, or repair your board and look the part to boot.

COUNTRY CLUB PLAZA. A chocolate-lover's paradise in the heart of the city, Panache elicits raves for its delectable confections. Truffles are bite-sized wonders, and chocolate-chocolate ice cream is well worth the calories. The place also offers chocolate-covered cornflakes. Tucked away on the Plaza near Saks, it's an ideal place for a sweet respite, especially when you take advantage of the choice tables out front.

DOWNTOWN. This intriguing shop offers a hodgepodge of wonderful outdoor items, including bags of spices, seeds, plants, and outdoor and indoor planters. The series of inter-connected stores carries a good range of merchandise, and the clientele is a mix of business people, locals and tourists. Stop in for fantastic gifts for lovers of the outdoors.