Shopping in Michigan by Sarah Miller

Smell fresh-mulled cider and stroll past lampposts dressed in fresh greens. Looking for a way to be whisked into the spirit of the holidays? Slow down your shopping season, and ditch the fluorescent lights of big box stores. Toss the laptop too. Shop small, and enter old-fashioned mainstreets with Hallmark-worthy storefronts and whiffs of kettle corn wafting through the crisp air. The phrase “Great gifts come in small packages” is true–small towns will provide a wealth of one-of-kind gifts for the special people on your list.

Here are five idyllic Christmas shopping towns in Michigan–a state so Christmasy, it’s even shaped like a cozy, Christmas mitten.

Gingerbread-style architecture makes Frankenmuth, also known as Little Bavaria, a magical shopping destination. The town is like entering a Christmas pop-up book with horse-drawn carriages and a garland-swathed covered bridge. Shop Frankenmuth River Place Shops with heated sidewalks. Specialty stores like Zac & Mac’s Chocolate Haus and Cherry Republic offer gourmet food gifts. For Bare Feet has your cold toes covered with cozy gifts. Hello Cats & Dogs make sure the furry family member is taken care of on your list–and that’s just a sampling of village shops.

Next stop, Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, “The World’s Largest Christmas Store” with acres of

ornaments, stockings, lights, trees, advent calendars, and more–you’ll think you’ve entered the North Pole. Over 6,000 specialty ornaments, many made of glass, are sure to be treasured on someone’s tree.

Our third stop, the German ChristKindlMarkt, is open on select weekends in late November and throughout December. Fortify your shopping with a massive hot pretzel, while browsing hand-crafted arts and crafts. With so much on your list, you might want to book a room in advance at a charming Bavarian inn or hotel.

For a taste of Dutch culture, head to Holland, Michigan. Downtown Holland’s charming downtown has over 100 specialty stores, galleries, restaurants, and more. The Apothecary Gift Shop has a little bit of everything from stocking stuffers to Michigan-made treasures. You’ll find small stores for the sports fan, outdoor enthusiast, music lover, art collector, traveler, and the foodie. Don’t miss Dutch Village Downtown, and find gifts like Holland Bowl Mill wooden bowls and personalized wooden shoes–or try a Dutch cheese tasting. For three weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas (plus the Saturday before Thanksgiving), Holland’s traditional pop-up Dutch“Kerstmarkt,” or Christmas market offers outdoor shopping. Stroll the stands to find unique, hand-crafted gifts and tasty treats.

Shop Howell’s hip, historic main street, and find home decor, a winery, clothing, and specialty items. Howell’s season officially kicks off on November

25 with the Fantasy of Lights Parade.Take time to window shop, the window displays are enchanting. Carriage House Galore is packed with treasures for the home. Then, check out local stores like Heart of Michigan with gourmet food gifts, plus sample daily homemade pasties, a UP favorite.

Make sure to grab a cupcake or crazy milkshake at M Street Bakery. The alley next door is decked out for Christmas with plenty of photo opportunities. Howell has a cool vibe of a big city, yet it’s definitely a small town.

Quiet and cozy, but still plenty to do–Tecumseh makes our list for its historic downtown and shopping. Christmas is for kids, and the downtown is home to J-Bar Hobbies, a sprawling hobby store with running trains and awesome STEM builds. Hopscotch is a toy store with quality games and toys. That doesn’t mean Tecumseh forgot the adults. Downtown shops like The Boulevard Market with artisan cheese, wines, and gourmet foods are good for your nice list. Homegoods, clothing, soaps/spa items, and more line the festive streets.

For do-it-yourselfers, The Bead Box Rocks and Gemstone Gift Shop allows you to create your own jewelry or buy something ready made. The British Tea Garden is a relaxing place to warm up, and bring something back for a friend. This southern Michigan town, not too far from Ohio, is a relaxing weekend shopping destination.

Known as a bustling summer resort town, Traverse City also packs a snowball of winter fun and shopping. You’ll find no shortage of choices in “The Cherry Capital of the World.” Cherries and other gourmet gifts can be found at Peppercorn, Folgerelli’s Market and Wine Shop, Cherry Republic, American Spoon, and more.

Local stores like Great Lakes Bath and Body offer homemade bath luxuries while Something Blue’s jewelry is crafted from northern Michigan’s Leland Blue stones. Kids will love a visit to Toy Harbor and Trains and Things Hobbies. Michiganders love the outdoors, so you’re sure to find kayaks and camping gear too.

November 19th the whole town lights up with the Downtown Traverse City Light Parade, Santa Claus, and tree lighting. Once the season is in full swing, look for special shopping celebrations like Ladies’ Night, Men’s Night, Black Friday, and Small Business Saturday.