Tinkersphere

Engineering buffs will flock to this mechanical mecca, featuring all things robotic and crafty. Brooklyn-born owner Sharon Gershi graduated from NYU in 2011 with a degree in electrical and computer engineering, and invites tinkerers of all ages to enhance their creativity with a selection of kits and gadgets ($10–$1,200) for the mechanically inclined. Those looking to dabble in robotics can pick up beginner bots such as the Elenco Follow Me Robot ($40), designed to trail behind the builder. Gamers can assemble their own video games with Nootropic Design Hackvision sets ($34), while skilled workers looking for a challenge can check out Robotis Bioloid Premium kits ($1,200) and build the shop’s most advanced humanoid robot.