When people think of unique “indie” shops in Michigan, Ann Arbor is the go-to place. If you look closely, though, you might find some gems in Ypsi too!
Buying unique gifts or finding interesting decorations for a dorm or apartment that express your awesome personality is not always easy. But, if you check out The Rocket, located at 122 W. Michigan Ave., you will be pleasantly surprised.
Next time you’re downtown and you’d like to find a kitschy place to shop, swing by The Rocket. It sells funny items including novelty toys and wallets, theme gifts, lunch boxes and more.
The self-described “riotous store” strives to entertain potential customers. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it can be a lot of fun to peruse the items, and when you do purchase an item, you will be supporting a local small business.
If you have a sense of humor and not a lot of money to spare (we are college students, after all), you can purchase a wallet that looks like bacon, a pan in the shape of a heart or even a classic Magic 8 ball.
Kitchen timers shaped into colorful, fun owls, tea infusers that look like robots and a pirate skull for your dashboard are not items you’d typically find in Bed, Bath and Beyond or IKEA.
Rosie the Riveter and Crazy Cat Lady action figures are being sold in the Rocket too, which could put a spin on a funny collection, or make people laugh when they check out your desk.
If you like to pull pranks on visitors, you might be interested in the blinking mustard and ketchup bottles. No one expects the condiments to blink while they are eating a cheeseburger.
People with a sweet tooth are likely to be satisfied visiting The Rocket, as the website says, “Our store offers a large selection of…bulk candy. We also offer novelty, nostalgic and traditional unwrapped candies.”
It’s hard to forget Christmas is coming upon us, and The Rocket has you covered. Funny Christmas tree ornaments, including the characters of South Park, a solitary mustache or a piece of bacon are all available in the store.
The store is also nice enough to support other local business and brands, including Ypsi Girl, VG Kids and Bowerbird Mongo. Best of all, the Rocket is affordable and offers a variety of products for people of any budget.
The Rocket is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sundays from to 12 to 5 p.m.
If you are new to the area, don’t own a GPS or lack directional skills, visit the Rocket’s website to type in your address and find the store.
For those who prefer online shopping, or checking out what you’re getting into before you visit a new place, you can look at the merchandise on The Rocket’s website at www.therocketypsi.com or www.shoptherocket.com.
You can contact the store by e-mailing paul@therocketypsi.com or calling 734-483-2291.
Happy shopping!
