Pendleton Woolen Mills

I don’t think enough people know about this store. If you like wool, boy, are you in for a treat. And if you like plaid? Even better!
Although known best for their blankets, Pendleton makes a wide variety of clothing and other woolen (and cotton, and yes, even some synthetic) goods. Their clothing styles range from traditional (which is great) to contemporary conservative (which is not so great), but they usually have some nice traditional stuff for men and women. Much of it is stuff you can’t find elsewhere, like wool shirts. (Yes, wool shirts! Who wants a shirt made of wool? I do! Wool is great!)
But the real treasure here is the basement. Here’s where you’ll find the deep discounts, and here’s where you’ll find my favorite part of the store: the stuff that is plaid that has no business being plaid. Want a plaid wool notebook? They had some! (They’re gone now.) Want a plaid wool tissue cover? They had some of those, too! (Also sold out.) This last time I went, they had little plaid tape measures! Of course I had to get me one of those.
This unassuming little store is always worth a stop if you’re heading from Omaha or Lincoln to Kansas City (or vice-​versa). Or make a special trip just to visit. It’s a wool-lover’s paradise.