Best Outdoor/Adventure Store
Bob's Bargain Barn
2230 N. Country Club Road
READERS' PICK: It's possible there are a few of you out there
who've never been to Bob's Bargain Barn, though judging
from the concert of readers' votes it is only a few. Well,
just like the great outdoors, Bob's has something for everyone.
From Swiss Army knives to freeze-dried Shrimp Newburg and camp-oven
focaccia mix, Bob's recognizes the traditional to the trendy.
Completing a list of what Bob's does not sell might be
a little easier, but entirely beside the point. The very fact
that Bob's is a mercantile and not a museum might elude you if
not for the ample and friendly staff on hand to guide you back
to your truer purpose: You came to buy catfish bait ("Yes,
Sir, right this way"); your kindergartner needs hiking boots
("Yes, Ma'am, they're on the other side of that wall");
you're thinking a canoe might be just the thing ("Sure. They're
in the next room, hanging from the ceiling"). As luck would
have it, Bob's is also a large supplier of regulation BSA and
GSA accouterments, right down to the flowered, stretch jersey
leggings and green scrunch socks. If these don't sound familiar
it's only because they weigh in closer to the focaccia mix. Maps
are on file next to a wide collection of excursion and trail guides.
Along the way, pick up a set of white-on-green speckled, enameled
cappuccino cups; binoculars are coming up in the case on the right.
Just for fun check out "Bob's Hall of Fame," a cork
board covered with photos (untouched) of the greatest fish stories
you'd ever hope to see. Across the parking lot and Bray Street
to the north is the annex, filled mostly with sleeping bags, cots,
tents, backpacking and rock climbing equipment. The "Environmental
Board" hanging inside the door accommodates announcements
for events and used for-sale items. Keep Bob's in mind whenever
gift-giving looms. For the kids there are Hacky Sacks and Klutz
books and T-shirts and balloons. Soft and fluffy outerwear and
the lightest, warmest innerwear are all on hand; you were thinking
of something kinda sexy for your boyfriend ("Well, uh, how
do you feel about camouflage?").
READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP AND STAFF PICK: Year in, year out and
all year 'round, the Summit Hut, 5045 E. Speedway, is the
place to go for the finest in outdoor gear, apparel and advice.
Clothing and equipment lines carry lifetime guarantees and are
backed up by the finest service anywhere. Dave, Jim, Curtis and
the other staff represent years of diverse experience in the outdoor-equipment
industry. They are well-trained and committed to taking care of
customers. This is a user-friendly store where you can browse
for a special T-shirt, helpful book, wind chimes or warm sock
slippers. You can also buy some serious backpacking or climbing
gear or just stop in for some helpful beta on local routes.
