When doing your annual holiday shopping and refresh for the new year, shopping local is always a good idea.
And there are plenty of shopping districts in West Michigan that have multiple storefronts perfect for grabbing a hot drink and strolling the wintery streets in search of that special gift. Whether shopping for holidays gifts or for yourself to brighten things up in the new year, keep these districts top of mind.
DOWNTOWN HOLLAND
Where can you find holiday cheer, stellar shopping and heated sidewalks? Downtown Holland, of course! Venture into the warm and welcoming world of Gezellig Home, shop leading contemporary designers at Three Chairs Co., enjoy indulgent treats at the iconic Holland Peanut Store, pick out stunning silver treasures at Silver Fox II Jewelry and more.
Don't forget about the annual Shopping Jam on the morning of December 14, where the more you shop, the more you save. And don't worry—several area coffee shops offer plenty of early morning fuel. Discover more at downtownholland.com.
DOWNTOWN GRAND HAVEN
The festive feels are truly alive and well around Downtown Grand Haven's Main Street! Amongst the city's historic architecture, shoppers can find local delights including Blueberry Haven's iconic Havenlicious Snack Mix and handmade jewelry crafted by women artisans at Honeybee Gifts. Pick up a good read from The Bookman, get trendy with some Ugg Tazz Slippers at Borr's Shoes and harness your crafty side with a Woolly Tree class at Green Dragonfly Studio.
Don't miss the Holiday Gift Art Show at Gallery Uptown—available to shop until December 28—which features handmade items of all kinds by local artists. Learn more by visiting downtowngh.com.
ADA VILLAGE
Ada Village is a charming one-stop destination home to plenty of unique shops to help you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Shop Tip Toes and Laurel & Jack for the children in your life, while adventurous gifts await at Beyond. Book lovers rejoice at the selection of reads at Plumfield Books, and everyday wear and accessories can easily be found at Gina's Boutique, Croft Haus and The James Boutique. And don't forget Skin CoLAB and Siren & Proper for that person (cough, yourself) who could use a rejuvenating experience.
A weekend getaway at the Ada Hotel or gift card for a night out at the area's many restaurants also makes for the perfect present. Head to Pursuit Paper & Gift to wrap it all up! Learn more at adavillage.com.
UPTOWN
The Grand Rapids Uptown district—Eastown, East Hills, Wealthy Street and East Fulton—is home to nearly 400 small and independently owned businesses, including boutiques, restaurants, specialty shops, cocktail bars, art galleries, theaters, studios, bakeries and more. The bustling yet charming neighborhood vibes found here are exactly what your holiday shopping experience needs.
Be sure to attend Shop Hop—Uptown's beloved holiday shopping event—on December 5 from 3-9 p.m. as businesses offer special surprises and limited items. There's also free shuttle rides on the jolly trolleys, strolling carolers, brass bands, pictures with Santa Clause, hot cocoa warming stations, a district tree lighting (courtesy Harmony Brewing Company) and more. See uptowngr.com.
DOWNTOWN ROCKFORD
From boutiques and candy stores, to home furnishings and books and toys, Downtown Rockford is a great option for checking off items on your holiday shopping list. Gifts for your furry best friends are at Fido & Stitch, and curated home goods and clothing await your closet at Cloth + Cabin. A good bottle ready for your festive gathering awaits at Kayla Rae Cellars, while the perfect accompaniments can be found at The Rockford Cheese Shop.
Feeling the last-minute rush? Rockford's Last Dash Shopping event (December 23) is perfect for those who still have some gifts to check off their list. Find a full lineup of festive events at rockfordmichamber.com/discover-a-rockford-christmas-2024 and a shop listing at heartofrockford.com/shop.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
This article originally appeared in the Dec '24/Jan '25 issue of West Michigan Woman.
