When you visit a new place while on vacation, it’s important to immerse yourself in the local culture. This ranges from eating at local restaurants, checking out local events, and, of course, shopping at local stores. There are some truly excellent and unique places to shop in Merrimack Valley. This means whether you’re in need of retail therapy or you’re looking for a gift for someone special, you’re in the right place to shop.
Kimball Farm Country Store
While you’re visiting Kimball Farm in the summer, or if you need a special gift in the winter, head over to the Kimball Farm Country Store in Westford. The Country Store is a two-story gift shop full of unique items including gourmet foods and locally crafted jewelry, Kimball’s merchandise, and special mementos.
While you’re there, fuel up with some delicious pastries, coffee, soups, salads, and sandwiches over at their cafe. After all, you shouldn’t shop on an empty stomach, and you’ll be tempted regardless by the incredible smells teasing your nose as you shop.
Crafty Yankee
Over in Lexington, Crafty Yankee is a regional favorite thanks to its selection of unique jewelry, home decor, and body care products. This family-owned business showcases not only the work of many New England and American artisans but products from fair trade and responsibly sourced small companies from around the globe. You’ll be in the right place to find new accessories to spice up your wardrobe, or find creative gifts for housewarmings, wedding showers, new babies, graduations, and other special occasions.
Soccer Stuff
If you’re the sporty type and in need of new, high-quality soccer cleats, head over to Soccer Stuff in Acton. They’ve been in the soccer business for over 25 years, giving them in-depth knowledge of the best soccer cleats and equipment so they know what you need before you do! With an extensive inventory, they’ll help you select and fit on soccer cleats so you walk out with the right ones. As your Greater Merrimack Valley soccer headquarters, they have the best selections of turfs, flats, shin guards, balls, ref gear, GK gloves, and more.
Alpaca Shop
Who doesn’t love a soft, cuddly alpaca? Well, if you stop by the Alpaca Shop over at Harvard Alpaca Ranch, you could go home with a plushie version of one! There are also stuffed versions of other cuddly animals like puppies, lions, and sloths. You can get one for a child, or keep it for yourself. After all, you’re never too old for cute toys.
The shop’s stock isn’t limited to plushies either. If you’re a crafter, you know that alpaca yarn is some of the highest quality wool available, having been known by the Incas as “Fiber of the Gods.” You can purchase skeins of alpaca yarn or finished apparel. All of the products come from their local fiber co-op, as well as their fair trade Peruvian partners. Best of all, all proceeds go to supporting the ranch’s adorable alpaca herd.
Mill No. 5
If you’re looking for unique shops, skip the big box stores and malls. Instead, head to Lowell for a shopping experience at Mill No. 5. At The Shops you’ll find an assortment of small, independent stores nestled within an interior streetscape of historic architecture. Pick up unique artwork from Curation 250, handcrafted soaps from Red Antler Apothecary, the latest fashion from Jack Attackk Clothing, and assorted goods from New England artisans at Hive & Forge.
Don’t miss out on the incredible, unique places to shop you can find in the Merrimack Valley. Shopping locally is a great way to get high-quality, extraordinary goods that will make you the envy of your friends and family.
