Poor Little Rich Girl: Originally based in Somerville and now open on Newbury Street. PLRG is a consignment stalwart. I’ve found so many great things there from vintage to contemporary overstock (you though it was cheap at Forever 21-wait til PLRG get’s there hands on it). The best vintage is organised by decade, which is always fun to explore. (PLRG, Davis Square-Somerville)

Magpie: Just around the corner from PLRG is Magpie, a hip crafter’s paradise. With lots of shiny, lovely things you cannot possibly leave this store empty handed. If you do, you don’t have a heart. Check out the makeshift art gallery with loans from the Museum of Bad Art! (Magpie, Davis Square-Somerville)

Grand: Take the 87 bus from Davis Square to this funky little shop way off the beaten track. Grand has a gallery style set up with amazing wares for your house. Our favorite finds include squirrel dish towels and bright orange prison plates. Grand frequently host awesome events for patrons, so become their friends. (Grand, Union Square-Somerville)

Second Time Around: With several locations across Boston, you can’t miss Second Time Around. Great finds with typical consignment prices (some high, some steals). Most STAs are located in pretty swanky areas so you might just find a gem cast off from a Boston socialite. Check out the Newbury Street and Charles Street locations as you window shop, or the Harvard Square location as you head to the Charlies Kitchen for a brew. (Second Time Around & Charlies, Harvard Square-Cambridge)

Aldo: Yes, I know. You have Aldo in your town–but not this one. Check out the DTX (that’s Downtown Crossing to you) shop for ridiculous bargains on still-in-season shoes. Why the handbags and shoes are on sale here while full price at other Aldos, I don’t know. But a girl doesn’t ask questions when she can score the killer heals she’s been coveting for 50% off. Now, the store is not tidy or relaxing or fun. Don’t go at lunch or rush hour. Go in with a mission. Line up by the back door to get the right size. Don’t dawdle or ask questions. Get your gear.  And be gone. (Aldo, Downtown Crossing-Boston)

Now, you have to eat and you’re probably on Newbury Street because, well, that’s what you do in Boston. You have two choices: expensive fancy pants food or awesome cheap food. If you’re me, you pick the latter. Check out The Other Side for amazing veggie burritos and other fine fares in a hipster’s paradise. Or Bukowski’s for a fab beer menu and $1.69 burgers before 8. No trip to Boston should be complete before a visit to Spikes. I had no idea hot dogs–or even veggie dogs–could ever be this good. Fresh baked buns, you choice of fixins and delightful junkyard motif.