The Holiday Shopping Trail is a fun way to shop local and win prizes. It’s also a great way to explore the region and discover new shops, restaurants and downtown destinations.
We have mapped out routes for a fun and full day of holiday shopping, with treats for you to enjoy along the way. Don’t forget your passport as you…
Prepare yourself to spend more time than you expected at the first stop on this section of the Trail. Bowerbird in Old Lyme has a little bit of everything, and all of it wonderful: toys, games, stationary, kitchen items, clothing, jewelry, and garden.
The next stop is Niantic, East Lyme’s traditional downtown with an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. The perfect dress is waiting at Grace or Mishale’ Bridal, and ready with gift ideas sure to please are L&J Blooms Florist and Gifts, Azalea, Niantic Bay Bicycles and Village Wine and Spirits. Treat yourself to lunch at Village Bake House or Gumdrops and Lollipops, where you can fill a box with handmade chocolates for an envied teacher’s gift. As you head up 161, drop into Wild Birds Unlimited to pick up a favorite for your feather friends or their enthusiasts. Take care of yourself at Your CBD Store and give your home a fresh look at Alpha Aero Draperies.
As you head down Route 1 on your way to New London, pop into Ivy’s Simply Homemade in Waterford to pick up dinner to go (you’re going to be tired when you get home) or place an order for holiday appetizers, sides or dinner.
If you have someone on your list who has been very, very good, remember the best gifts come in small boxes. At Mallove Jewelers, love is right in the name!
To put a different kind of two-wheeler under the tree, fulfill a dream with a bike from Mike’s Famous Harley Davidson. In downtown New London, everything sparkles at Northern Light Gems. Visit Custom House Museum shop, Studio 33 Art & Frame Shop, and Homeward Bound Treasures where the fun is in exploring and finding a uniquely suited gift.
If you are feeling run down, fuel up with a healthful grain bowl at Right Path Organic. Or if you’re feeling naughty, enjoy the most luscious cupcake imaginable at NoRA Cupcake Company.
As you wrap up your day, remember the gift they have been clamoring for, and bring home a new cell phone from Wireless Zone with locations in New London and Groton.