Holiday Retail Therapy in Downtown Gloucester, MA

December 12, 2022 / Good to Know, Things to Do & See

If you are one of the 64% of consumers who have not started your holiday shopping yet, don’t panic! Downtown Gloucester, Massachusetts may be the ideal place to find that perfect holiday gift this year even for those hard-to-buy-for relatives. 

Skip the busy mall and get into the spirit of the season as you stroll along the streets of scenic Downtown Gloucester. Not only can you enjoy the twinkling lights and decorations of the storefronts during their Winter Lights Contest but you’ll also be supporting local small businesses this gifting season. 

Here are just a few of our top spots to visit as you set out on your hunt for a gift for everyone on your list. You’ll find locally made items like wine, food, clothing, one-of-a-kind gifts, and always-appreciated gift cards. 

Saltwater Massage Studio 

We all have a friend or relative that gives so openly of their time and money to everyone else but never takes time to relax for themselves. A gift card to Saltwater Massage Studio will allow your loved one to practice a little self-care as they enjoy one of the luxurious massages such as a Therapeutic and Deep Tissue Massage, a CBD Massage that combines their signature Therapeutic and Deep Tissue Massage with the soothing benefits of CBD oils, or a prenatal massage for an expectant mom-to-be! 

Located at 65 Pleasant Street in Gloucester, MA, Saltwater Massage Studio should be your first stop to snag a gift of relaxation for the people on your list. 

Brass Monkey 

Located at 85 Main Street, the Brass Monkey is a must-visit shop in Gloucester. 

This truly unique shop offers one-of-a-kind treasures, antique and vintage items, as well as well-recognized product lines and the works of local artisans. Whether you’re looking for clothing, jewelry, handbags, seasonal decor, or something for that “already-has-everything” person on your list, this shop may be just the right place to find something as unique as they are. 

Dogtown Books 

If you have a bookworm on your list this holiday season, you won’t want to miss a visit to Dogtown Books on Gloucester’s historic Main Street. Not only can you find some great reads to purchase, but will also find a comfortable community meeting locale and a hub for exciting special events. The experts at Dogtown Books can help you find the right genre for everyone on your list!

Design of Mine 

Located at 33 Main Street, Design of Mine is the ideal spot to shop for the woman in your life. You’ll find shawls, eclectic clothing, and accessories galore as you peruse this boutique right in the heart of downtown Gloucester. 

Can’t choose? Get her a gift card to shop after the holidays and support our local businesses all year round. 

Savour Wine & Cheese

Is there a wine connoisseur on your Christmas list? Stop in to Savour Wine & Cheese at 76 Prospect Street and sample more than 20 unique small-production wines while you shop Cape Ann’s best selection of fine wines. 

Currently, Savour is offering a 10% discount on the purchase of a 12-bottle case of wine.  In addition, Savour offers a 10% discount on any other specialty items purchased with the case.

Sample This 

Open year-round on Main Street, Sample This is a fantastic shop to find “uptown brands at downtown prices.” Explore their new arrivals of tops, pants, dresses, accessories, and some unique gifts that are sure to be exactly perfect for even the pickiest person on your list. 

Mark Adrian Shoes 

A fixture in Gloucester since 1975, Mark Adrian Shoes is a fifth-generation shoe retailer right in historic downtown Gloucester. Main Street wouldn’t be the same without this little piece of history offering top brands that meet owners Adam and Sara Farber‘s high expectations for comfort, style, and value.

Whether you’re searching for boots to get you through the winters on Cape Ann or a comfy shoe for work or play, the brands you come to trust line the shelves at Mark Adrian. You are sure to recognize the name brands such as Merrell, Keen, Clarks, Birkenstocks, Dansko, and more. 

Beth Williams Handmade Glass Bead & Jewelry

If your Christmas list includes someone who loves jewelry, then Beth Williams Handmade Glass Bead & Jewelry needs to be a stop on your downtown stroll. 

Beth has been designing and making jewelry for more than 35 years, first in metals and then incorporating handmade glass. She creates her own glass beads which allow her to customize each piece. Surprise your loved one with a one-of-a-kind piece this holiday.

Before the seasonal parties are in full swing, sneak away from the mobs at the mall and head to Downtown Gloucester to discover shopping hidden gems all in one beautiful and festive location. Click here for more of our retail stores and dining suggestions.