If you're visiting, check out these spots:

• Northwest Puppet Center, 9123 15th Ave. N.E. Operated by Stephen and Chris Carter, professional puppeteers since 1976, the center presents familiar tales and original performances between October and May. On display throughout the former church that houses the handicap-accessible center is a collection of marionettes, shadow, stick, glove, hand and rod puppets crafted by the late master puppeteer of Basil Milovsoroff. The exhibit is free and open to the public weekdays through June 30.

• Tree Top Barbershop, 8815 Roosevelt Way N.E. Named after the three giant cedars beside the raised wooden house whose living room was long ago converted into a barbershop. Locals swear by owner Michael Sharp's neat crewcuts and close shaves distinquished by creamy puffs from a working foam machine. Look for the old Pepsi bottle machine in the back, empty but working. Beard trims run $3, senior citizens' and childrens' haircuts are $9. All others are $10. Closed Sunday and Monday.

• Cellaret Antique and Collectable Kitchenware, 8414 Fifth Ave. N.E. A boon for cooking enthusiasts, collectors of kitchen paraphernalia and lovers of all things Martha Stewart. Look for well-seasoned cast-iron pots, hefty Irish linens and hard-to-find items such as vintage Jell-O molds, '50s-era waffle irons and colorful Fiestaware. Closed Sundays.

• The Bells Restaurant, 8501 Fifth Ave. N.E. Popular with seniors and locals alike. The placemats welcome diners to bow their heads and pray. Try the stuffed lamb with mashed potatoes and vegetables, followed by fresh blackberry cobbler a la mode, served by waitresses who know most of their customers by name. Open daily. Traditional Sunday dinner starts at noon.