Happy Travelers seek their own unique brand of one-of-a-kind items, and Pennsylvania has just the shops! Many downtown Main Streets and friendly, local storefronts beckon passersby to stop in and splurge for family and friends (and YOU)!
1. LITITZ
Downtown Lititz, also known as the “Coolest Small Town in America,” features distinctive retailers whose wares include antiques, clothing, fine furniture, and artistic creations. Stop in The Main Street Peddler to find an eclectic mix of folk art, authentic primitives, quality antiques, unique gifts, vintage collectibles, and seasonal items. Browse the other shops in this charming town to enjoy a meal, or brew and then a relaxing break with a stroll in the beautifully maintained Lititz Springs Park.
2. MILFORD
Nestled along the Delaware River, rich forests and beautiful lakes surround the town of Milford. From quaint antique stores to trendy cigar shops, there’s a variety of stores to explore. Find unique gifts at Earthly Treasures, a metaphysical shop selling gifts with meaning – jewelry, oils, crystals, and statuary. In between shopping, explore the town’s delicious eateries such as the Sparkomatic Café and Talkhouse featuring locally sourced ingredients and an eclectic vibe.
3. BEDFORD
For more than 250 years, Bedford has welcomed holiday travelers to its quaint streets filled with friendly taverns and shops. Discover the joys of shopping in this small town where you’ll find unique clothing, art, and antiques. Stop in KJ Shea Seasonal to find upscale seasonal accents, inspired home decor, and eclectic lifestyle pieces. Then, grab a bite at Bad Boyz Bistro, with its extensive menu of creatively named dishes, such as “Lunch Lady Land” chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta – proof that Bad Boyz really did “like the lunch lady!”
4. PEDDLER’S VILLAGE
Follow the winding brick paths of the charming colonial adornment of Peddler’s Village in New Hope. More than 90 percent of their 60+ specialty shops and boutiques are small, locally owned businesses, where you can discover the best in apparel, toys, and collectibles. Find one-of-a-kind gifts at the Artisans Gallery, which features the works of over 400 American artists focusing on jewelry, pottery, glass, wood, fibers, and hand painted furniture with lots of exciting, affordable items.
5. CARLISLE
The tree-lined streets of historic downtown Carlisle offer a unique shopping experience from block-to-block. Whether its books, candies and chocolates, antiques, jewelry, clothing, or local art, you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something unique in one of the city’s many boutiques. You will find unique artisan bath and body items “where art meets soap” at No Common Scents, or indulge your favorite bibliophile and support one of the area’s independent bookstores with a selection or two from the Whistlestop Bookshop.
6. LIGONIER
More than 60 specialty shops and restaurants line the streets of the quaint and historic town of Ligonier, where Main Street circles around a stately bandstand, serving as the hub for the town’s special events. Book lovers will love Second Chapter Books, featuring used and new options, or head to Annalynn Boutique for little surprises and fabulous gift ideas for every occasion!
7. WEST CHESTER
Nestled in the heart of the Brandywine Valley, the picturesque town of West Chester offers small-town charm with cosmopolitan flair. With more than 65 boutiques, West Chester is a shopper’s paradise and the perfect place to shop until you drop before retreating to one of their many restaurants for a bite to eat. Whether you love vintage jewelry and accessories or are in the market for some new and trendy clothing, be sure to stop by the Green Eyed Lady boutique and vintage jewelry store.
8. INDIANA
Downtown Indiana streets are filled with charming and quaint shops whose storefronts are twinkling with beautiful holiday décor. Enjoy a stroll along Philadelphia Street and browse the variety of specialty shops that will make your holiday shopping a breeze! Visit The Artists Hand Gallery & Espresso Bar where along with a wonderful selection of works by local artists, you’ll find a menu filled with delicious coffees, teas, Italian sodas, paninis, and tantalizing baked goods.
9. BETHLEHEM
Looking for unique shopping and dining experiences? Then Bethlehem is the place for you! The town offers up one-of-kind shopping ranging from unique home décor to fine jewelry. Get your shop on in the SouthSide Arts District, filled with hip, edgy and distinctive places to shop – from the latest in furniture and design to skate-shop fashion. Be sure to stop by the Moravian Book Shop, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world. Celebrate all your great finds with a great meal and award-winning craft beer at Fegley's Brew Works after your hard day of shopping.
10. STATE COLLEGE
The shops of downtown State College are perfect if you need a little retail therapy. While strolling through the streets, enjoy a variety of specialty shops offering everything from jewelry to art. Find the perfect gift for even the pickiest foodie friend on your list at the Kitchen Kaboodle – a favorite of both locals and visitors alike for all things culinary. Once you’ve worked up an appetite stop by one of their many restaurants for a bite to eat, such as Sowers Harvest Café and its extensive menu of delicious, local ethically sourced foods.
11. CLEARFIELD
While strolling through downtown Clearfield, be sure to stop in the Historica Plus Antique Gallery, a co-op offering a wide variety of antiques and collectables including postcards, furnishings, jewelry, coins, tools, and glassware. Less than a block away is Lefort’s Sweet Shoppe with scrumptious coffee beverages, a variety of stuffed-to-the-gills French bread pizzas, and other hearty items. Their quart-sized Grande Milkshake is almost a meal in itself complete with fudge and candy toppings!
12. ZELIENOPLE
With all the quaintness and charm of “Mayberry,” the beautiful, historic town of Zelienople is lined with locally-owned businesses attracting visitors from near and far with its trendy boutiques, gorgeous historic homes, unique dining options, and art scene. Stop in the Stocking Stuffers Plus any time of year, but especially during the holiday season where you’ll find a wide selection of beautiful crafts whether shopping for your favorite Pittsburgh sports fan or treasured relative or friend.
13. NORTH EAST
Main Street in North East is a charming, Victorian-style area filled with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, backlit by the picturesque Gibson Park. After shopping, grab a bite at The Skunk and Goat Tavern in the heart of downtown North East. Then, enjoy a restful night at the Grape Arbor Bed and Breakfast in buildings that date back to the 1830s and awake to an amazing four-course gourmet breakfast to start your day.
14. Stroudsburg
Stroudsburg shines with a striking mix of small-town glamour, modern appeal and a beautiful, walkable downtown where the charm speaks for itself. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt at an art gallery, trendy boutique, or craft and specialty shops, such as the American Ribbon Outlet and Craft Store – a dream come true for any crafter. The city also boasts numerous restaurants range from pubs and cafes to ethnic eateries serving up Thai, Italian and French cuisine.
15. BRADFORD
The charming town of Bradford provides a welcome respite from crowded streets, heavy traffic, and long lines. Put the fun back into shopping as you discover inspired, creative, imaginative gifts for your family and friends – and maybe, a little something for yourself. No trip to Bradford is complete without a stop at the Zippo/Case Museum and Store where you can shop for a classic gift, along with learning the fascinating history of these two iconic, made in America products. For a bit of nostalgia with your meal, check out A Taste of the 80’s where its name says it all!
16. KENNETT SQUARE
The shops in historic Kennett Square, the Mushroom Capital of the World, offers far more than just fresh mushrooms! This small-town main street is filled with unique shops for clothing, gifts, art, tea, books, and, of course, delectable dining featuring their number one export – the mighty mushroom! At Clean Slate Goods, you are bound to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list – all made with care and quality by fair-wage artisans from around the world.
17. LAWRENCEVILLE
One of Pittsburgh’s trendiest neighborhoods, Lawrenceville is booming with local shops and galleries. Stop in for happy hour at a local craft brewery before experiencing the rest the neighborhood has to offer. Have a sweet tooth? Visit NatuRoll Creamery to try one of their 60,000 (not a typo!) different combinations of rolled ice cream and milkshakes.
18. TUKHANNOCK
Home to the annual Christmas in Our Hometown event, shoppers will delight in the merchants, wineries, and restaurateurs who make their home throughout the Victorian themed downtown. During this year's "An Endless Mountains Christmas" celebration, discover the nostalgic downtown where the Dietrich Theater, popular home to regional film festivals, will host "The 12 Movies of Christmas" to enjoy as part of a shopping getaway this holiday season!
19. EAGLES MERE
Eagles Mere, "the town that time forgot" in the beautiful Endless Mountains, offers a true country-inspired shopping trip. Eagles Mere Bookshop, The Common Good, the Eagles Mere Museum shop, and other businesses in the downtown are waiting to welcome you. A short drive from other county shopping stops including several local wineries and Artisan Alpacas offer other unique gifting ideas for the holiday season.
20. WELLSBORO
Now in its 37th year, the annual Dickens of a Christmas and Christmas on Main Street welcome visitors to the historic downtown for gift buying stops and holiday celebrations. In addition to eclectic gift shops, local outfitters, arts venues, and nostalgic stores, the downtown is alive with great restaurants and dining options. Come for the shopping, stay for the holiday spirit in Wellsboro! Fun fact: Wellsboro is the town where traditional Shiny Brite holiday ornaments were created during the throes of World War II, keeping the holiday spirit bright in homes throughout the nation.
21. COUDERSPORT
The bustling activity and events of this small town not far from "Dark Skies" is a wonderful destination for unique and eclectic holiday shopping. From Coudersport’s small stores along Route 6 to nearby museums, you will enjoy shopping in this country town where hospitality is always available! In business for more than a century, Hauber’s Jewelry Store is a must-stop for unique jewelry and other great gift finds! Don’t miss The Bee’s Knees Boutique where you’re bound to find something you like as it is, well you know 😊.
22. SMICKSBURG
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and enjoy a scenic drive through Amish County in the community of Smicksburg. Home to unique and antique specialty stores, shop this charming area for primitive décor, seasonal treasures, pottery, wine, and hand-crafted furniture. Surprise that special someone with tasty treats from The Country Cupboard of Smicksburg featuring several regional favorites, as well as delectable gourmet fudge.
23. BEAVER
Third Street in beautiful, picturesque, tree-lined Beaver offers a variety of family-owned shops and restaurants – a perfect destination for your holiday shopping. You are almost guaranteed to find the perfect gift for even your toughest customer at Jeppie whose specialty is “the art of giving” with its extensive selection of fine gifts to delight every age and taste. Extend your stay with a night at one of city’s beautiful B&Bs, such as the fully restored, Second Empire Victorian-Style Todd House, which dates back to 1873 and is completely bedecked in all its holiday finery.
24. DUBOIS
Go to downtown DuBois and enjoy their many specialty shops and restaurants, offering everything from clothing and jewelry to delicious candies and treats. You will find comfortable and stylish clothing for both gals and guys at Guzzo's & Co., a locally owned specialty boutique. Then, grab a slice or two of your favorite pizza at Firehouse Pizzeria. In keeping with its name, the restaurant features fire department-themed decorations and equipment along with great food.
To learn about more about shopping destinations in Pennsylvania, check out the visitPA website. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay up-to-date on even more great ideas and places to visit around our state. Don’t forget to never miss an update and sign up for our monthly Happy Thoughts e-newsletter.