2020-01-07 01:49:15
Pennsylvania’s many downtown main streets and friendly local storefronts beckon passersby to stop in and find the perfect gift. Explore walkable retail districts around the state to discover locally owned boutiques, handmade goods, and sidewalk cafés. Serene green spaces, Victorian mansions, and cobblestone streets set the tone in the historic neighborhood of Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia, where you’ll find more than 100 storefronts, most of which are along Germantown Avenue. Shop antiques, clothing, and unique gifts, or find locally made goods and farm-fresh foods at the Saturday morning farmers market. With its turn-of-the-century storefronts and authentic gas-lit lanterns lining the main thoroughfare, historic Wellsboro is an idyllic scene of small-town living. Start your morning with an espresso drink and pastry at Café 1905, and then stroll along Main Street to shop momand-pop shops showcasing everything from handmade stained-glass décor to outdoor gear. Be sure to stop into Dunham’s, an independent department store dating back to 1905, and then pick up specialty gifts at Pop’s Culture Shoppe or The Main Street Olive Oil Co. Get lost in the charming Colonial adornment of Peddler’s Village in New Hope, where more than 60 shops include trendy fashion boutiques, toy stores, and local artisans. In the quaint and historic town of Ligonier, Main Street circles around a stately bandstand serving as the hub for the town’s special events, and more than 60 specialty shops and restaurants line the adjacent streets. During the holiday season, nothing welcomes the Yuletide spirit like strolling along Main Street in historic Bethlehem, the “Christmas City.” You’ll discover one-of-kind shopping experiences ranging from unique home décor items to fine jewelry, as well as the Moravian Book Shop, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world. While you’re here, be sure to stroll the vendors of Christmas City Village to shop for everything from handmade beauty products to gourmet pastries to locally made accessories. The town of State College is another must-stop spot for shopping with an array of shops clustered between Beaver Avenue and College Avenue. Holiday festivities include ice sculptures, carriage rides, and street vendors offering roasted chestnuts and hot chocolate.
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