Cameron's

So I will admit, I am an internet shopper first and foremost, but I always end up doing my brick and mortar shopping at the U Mall. The place has lots of locally owned shops and a Dillards. Seriously-- you can find everything here, but without the stupendous crowds and traffic you will find in other area malls (I am looking at you, Southpoint and Crabtree Valley!). Go to Roses for your cheap gag gift and UNC-licensed apparel, go to Dillards for your grandmother/mother/sister, go to A Southern Season for your foodie friend, check out Camerons for your favorite wacky aunt, Bath and Body for the cousin that you hardly know, and then go to K&W (located conveniently in the parking lot) when you need to get your cafeteria food fix. I love the U Mall, and though I like not having to risk getting trampled while I shop, I would like to see a few more people go there so that it does not close. Check it out, I love it so there is a good chance that you will too! Pros: Not crowded, interesting shops more

I'm convinced this is the reason U. mall has stuck around for so long. This store is absolutely brilliant. You could spend hours in here and still not see everything they have to offer. I never go in here buying someone a unique gift without walking out with something for myself. Things are a little pricey, but you wouldn't find these things anywhere else. At least go to window shopping. Well worth it. Pros: Unique items, Inspiring Cons: Sometimes over-priced more

Every time I walk into Camerons (the only reason to visit University Mall), I forget about anything else I have to do that day. You can spend hours perusing the hilarious cards, gazing at the gorgeous jewelry, ogling the crazy gifts like a pillow of Eduard Munch's "The Scream" that screams, and last but not least, zen out in their shrine - a little room that has nothing for sale, only cute quotes and wacky art. If I became a millionare, half I would immediately spend here. Pros: hard to find stuff, not expensive, local business Cons: hidden away in mall more