The holiday season is here—and there’s no better time to check off that gift list. From bustling downtowns to cozy country stores and creative artisan shops, New Hampshire is full of places where holiday magic and thoughtful gifting go hand in hand. Make a day of it—or turn your shopping adventure into a festive weekend getaway!
For Thoughtful Stocking Stuffers
Country & General Stores
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about New Hampshire’s country and general stores. They bring you back to a simpler time—where friendly faces, wooden floors, and shelves full of local favorites await.
Explore these stores located around the state where you’ll find they offer a little bit of everything: handmade soaps, old-fashioned candies, cozy winter accessories, and local food items perfect for gifting (or snacking on your drive home).
Don’t miss a visit to The Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough—one of the oldest retail establishments in the country!
For Boutique and New Hampshire-Made Gifts
Downtown Shops
If festive lights, window displays, and that classic holiday buzz are your kind of shopping vibe, explore one of New Hampshire’s quaint downtowns. Each offers its own charm—and plenty of local shops to find gifts with heart.
- Concord: The capital city is brimming with locally owned shops and boutiques. Join the fun during Midnight Merriment, when stores stay open late and downtown glows with holiday cheer. Visit Homebody for home décor, the League of NH Craftsmen for artisan-made pieces, and Gibson’s Bookstore for your book and toy lovers.
- Dover: Downtown Dover shines bright for the holidays with twinkling lights, creative storefronts, and a warm community vibe. Pop into Noggin Factory for toys and games that inspire imagination, browse Red’s Shoe Barn for footwear favorites, and visit Just the Thing for unique gifts that reflect local flair and culture. Don’t leave without a stop at Lickee & Chewy’s Candies & Creamery, this whimsical castle-like shop is packed with sweet treats that will make you feel like a kid again.
- Exeter: This riverside gem combines history and holiday spirit. Start at Town Hall, where Abraham Lincoln once spoke. Then explore LunaChics for trendy fashion, Travel & Nature for adventurers, and Curio Artisan Chocolate for decadent handmade chocolates.
- Hanover: Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover’s downtown blends academic energy with small-town charm. Sip coffee (or wine!) at Still North Books & Bar, pick up distinctive gifts, jewelry and home décor at Lemon Tree Gifts, and indulge at My Brigadeiro for artisan sweets.
- Keene: This historic downtown sparkles with lights and local pride. Stop by Hannah Grimes Marketplace for locally crafted gifts, Urban Exchange for fashion finds, and the iconic Ye Goodie Shoppe for nostalgic candies and chocolates.
- Littleton: This North Country favorite along the Ammonoosuc River has small-town charm in abundance. Visit Chutter’s, home to the world’s longest candy counter, browse Bella Funk Boutique for clothing, skincare and home goods too, and stop at Lahout’s, America’s oldest ski shop, for all your winter sports gear.
- North Conway: In the heart of the White Mountains, North Conway is a gift-seeker’s paradise. Discover culinary delights at North Conway Olive Oil Company, get your festive fix at The Christmas Loft, and stroll through Zeb’s General Store for a walk down memory lane, complete with lots of local treats.
- Portsmouth: With cobblestone streets and historic charm, the Seacoast city of Portsmouth shines especially bright this time of year. Explore Macro Polo for clever novelties, G. Willikers Toy Shop for puzzles and playthings, and Pickwick’s Mercantile for a whimsical shopping experience that feels straight out of a storybook.
For Style and Gadgets
If you’re more of a one-stop shopper, New Hampshire’s outlet malls have you covered. With brand names, specialty shops, and unbeatable deals—plus no sales tax—it’s a holiday win-win!
- Merrimack Premium Outlets, Merrimack
- Settlers Green, North Conway
- Tanger Outlets, Tilton
For One-of-a-Kind Gifts:
What do you get someone who has everything? Something they won’t find anywhere else! New Hampshire’s antique and artisan shops are treasure troves of unique finds, vintage collectibles, and handcrafted creations that tell a story all their own.
- New Hampshire Antique Co-op, Milford: Featuring more than 200 antique dealers and 2,000 consignors, this 20,000-square-foot destination is filled with authentic antiques, fine art, and vintage décor. Perfect for finding something timeless.
- Potato Barn Antiques and Collectibles, Northumberland: Once a real potato storage barn, this spot now overflows with vintage clothing, tools, hats, and lighting—each item as distinctive as the building itself.
- Puggy’s, Keene: This multi-vendor vintage shop offers a fun mix of antiques, jewelry, gems, collectibles, and locally made goods—a true reflection of Keene’s creative spirit.
- The Purple Peacock, Littleton: Stroll along Main Street and pop into this boutique filled with quirky treasures, handcrafted art, and unique décor—sure to spark joy for anyone on your list.
