October is here, and with the season comes an embrace of the macabre, scary and the bizarre. To get in the mood for the Halloween season, why not welcome the fun little oddities that can be found in the area?
Here is a list of quirky businesses around the Buffalo area to visit for the Halloween season, or year-round.
The Merry Shelley Bar
If you are 21 or older, you can check out this gothic themed bar, which features a pun name based on the famous author of Frankenstein. The Merry Shelley serves up themed drinks in a small literary-themed bar, and there is no shortage of spookiness in its atmosphere.
Black Sheep Market
A shop that boasts “artisans, gifts, oddities” on its windowfront, Black Sheep Market sells items that are considered unique. The store currently offers many Halloween themed items at the moment but sells similar items all year long.
Atomic Barbershop and Salon
Have you ever been to a sci-fi themed hair salon? Now you can! This kitschy business, with locations in Tonawanda and Cheektowaga, features décor that harkens back to monster and alien movies of the 1960s. They offer a variety of hair services for different ages and genders, in a fun atmosphere.
Avalon Exotics
For fans of often intimidating animals like dart frogs or tarantulas, Avalon Exotics sells these creatures and more. The exotic pet store features an array of unusual pets and supplies for people who enjoy animals other than the usual cat or dog in their home.
Soul Vibes
Buffalo has a variety of “crystal shops” with all kinds of witchy supplies like incense, candles and yes, crystals. One of the nearest and most highly rated of these shops is Soul Vibes, but some other local stores within this category include Rising Goddess, Spiritual Landing and Strange Brew. For any metaphysical needs, these shops have plenty to offer.
Sloan’s Antiques
This store has been around for more than 60 years, according to the store’s website. In an otherwise unassuming building, antiques surround the shopper from every angle. With the wide variety of items being sold at Sloan’s Antiques, some even from the 1800s, who knows… you may find the perfect haunted item for your home.
Happy Halloween!
Nadia is the senior features editor and can be reached at nadia.brach@ubspectrum.com
