Shopping in Riverside

World Discoveries amplifies the imaginations of little ones with a selection of classic and eclectic board games, science kits, dolls, and other interactive distractions. Its junior versions of Monopoly and Scrabble prepare tykes for the cutthroat world of spelling bees and elementary-school property disputes, and its Jenga Max tower tests the patience of wee players with perpetual rebuilding projects. A set of Blendy pens encourages kids to mix and match colors, and Scientific Explorer kits demonstrate modern science in action with chemistry sets, mock volcanoes, and baking-soda-fueled rockets.

Babydollz Lingerie suits up shoppers in alluring lingerie and come-hither costumes from more than 150 designer brands and custom creations crafted by the pair of seamstress owners. Co-owner Heather draws on her Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising degree to outfit customers in a classy selection of corsets and bustiers or sequined, rhinestone, and pinup-style high heels. The owners design their own line of custom tutus to fit adults and adult-size performing seals, and they make custom bridal garters and lingerie upon request to celebrate wives-to-be. A variety of costumes—ranging from pirates to princesses—can spice up a costume party, and the adult toy room stocks amorous accessories such as massage oils, accouterments for bachelorette parties, and furry handcuffs, ideal for apprehending bank-robbing ewoks.

Illuminated display cases flank the walls at Diamonds By Monet, each speckled with glimmering necklaces, earrings, and rings. A chandelier hangs from the showroom ceiling, sparkling above the boutique's jewelers as they help shoppers to select the perfect in-stock piece or discuss the design of a custom-made bauble. Their skilled fingers repair broken jewelry and timepieces, and they buy customers’ unwanted scrap gold, silver coins, and platinum tuna cans by the gram.

Electric hues of orange and lime green complement the gleaming paint jobs decking B-Rad's Bike Stop's bicycles and emulate the road-visible shades splashing racks of riding accessories. Bikers of all stripes can find their ideal transport in the spoked selection, which ranges from town and beach cruisers to racing, road, and mountain two-wheelers. The shop's mechanics call on years of experience to execute each repair and tune-up, along with a stock of parts from several manufacturers, including Giant, Kona, Haro, and Troy Lee Designs. To fuel their passion for community involvement, the owners of the recently opened B-Rad's plan to participate in local charity events by sponsoring activities such as bicycle races and dramatic reenactments of classic Paperboy moments.

Since 1973, the staff members at Reher’s Florist have put the lush flowers of Southern California to use in custom-designed arrangements for individuals and events. Because of the temperate climate and a countywide snowman ban, Reher’s considers no flower truly out of season. That means that arrangements can include orchids, cattails, and sunflowers year-round in arrangements suitable for celebrations, sympathy, and weddings.:m]]