Shop Local in the Berkshires

‘Tis the season to shop! So why not show some much needed love to small and independently-owned businesses? Let the Berkshires be your gift-giving wonderland – and maybe even gift yourself as well?

For anyone who loves to shop, the Berkshires provides ample opportunity for seeking out everything from antiques and handmade wares to discovering unique finds at farm and makers’ markets, country stores, gift shops, and charming boutiques tucked away in historic buildings. With the season of gift-giving on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to make a list, check it twice, and plan a shopping holiday in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. 

Whether it’s vintage Chanel or a pre-loved leather coat, a set of retro Pyrex or hard-to-find vinyl, resale shoppers will love treasure hunting in the Berkshires – home to many purveyors upcycling and recycling. It’s a trend that is not only trendy but also good for reducing your carbon footprint. One such shop is Berkshire Humane Society‘s Catwalk Boutique, specializing in like-new women’s clothing and accessories. The bright, cheerful shops – one in Lenox and one in Great Barrington – feel more upscale than resale. Look for the designer racks if you’re label hunting. No matter what you find, it’s a guilt-free shopping experience as every purchase benefits the shelter animals. 

For a more traditional antiquing experience, check out Susan Silver Antiques in Sheffield – their specialty is English Georgian and Regency period furniture. If you’re looking for vinyl, pop into Berkshirecat Records in the Stationary Factory. They offer quality used and new records, CDs, and more, and if you happen to be traveling in May, you’ll want to check out their annual record show.  

If your aesthetic is more rugged than ritz, you’re in luck. Both the Arcadian Shop in Lenox and Nature’s Closet in Williamstown offer outdoor gear for nature enthusiasts. Suit up to brave the cold or pick out a new swim suit when visiting in warmer months. During the holiday season you’ll find an extensive selection of puffer jackets, cozy sweaters, snuggly hats, and waterproof gloves and shoes – everything you’ll need for a snowy trek in the woods or soaring downhill on one of our many ski slopes. For the skiers and cyclists in your life, check out Berkshire Bike and Board, where you can find the clothing, footwear, helmets, and gear to get you moving. Know someone who loves ice fishing? Onota Boat Livery in Pittsfield can ‘hook you up’ with lures, stocking stuffers, and more.  (You can enjoy snacks near by, too – treat yourself to sweets at Chocolate Springs close to the Arcadian Shop or a smoothie served at Nature’s Closet.) Love to run and forgot to pack your favorite footwear?

For whimsical wares and handmade items of all kinds crafted by local creatives, stop by Inspired Creations and Lanesborough Local Country Store in Lanesborough, and Hoffman Pottery in West Stockbridge. Gardners will love Shaker Mercantile on the grounds of the Hancock Shaker Museum in Pittsfield. The beautiful gift shop has a wide selection of carefully-curated goods from oval wooden boxes, lush textiles, and woven baskets to old fashioned candy, beeswax candles, and beautifully crafted garden tools. Speaking of gardening, peruse tools, statuary, and live plants at Ward’s Nursey & Garden Center. Other memorable gift shops can be found at the Norman Rockwell Museum, the famed Red Lion Inn, and Naumkeag, which tailors its offerings of ornaments, books, stickers, toys, jewelry, and accessories to the season.

Guido’s Fresh Market, credit Rachel Kawate

Give the plant lover in your life a little something green from the floral department of Guido’s Fresh Marketplace where you’ll also find hand-dipped candles in vibrant hues and seasonally inspired dishes, table settings, and picnicware. Take some blooms home when you visit Pryjma Petals – they offer dahlia tubers, and can ship for you. If you’re feeling crafty, sign up for a hands-on workshop at either Thistle ‘n Thorn or Pryjma Petals. How about gifting the creative folks in your life with Legos? Head over to Bottomless Bricks, where you can buy and build, or sign up for a class. Maybe you’re the creative one in your crew – consider giving a specially printed tee or sweatshirt from 413Shirts featuring your own design. And let’s not forget our lovable canine companions. Barkshire Dog Trading Co.  is just the place for that new bandana or specialty pup treat.

Got friends and family on your list who have everything? How about the gift of an experience! Tickets to a stage production for the upcoming season in one of the premiere Berkshires theaters; an adventure on the slopes or summer zipline for the outdoor enthusiasts; a tasting at one of our fabulous wineries, craft breweries, and spirit creators; or treat to appetizers or dinner at one of the many unique restaurants found only in the Berkshires.

Clark Art Institute Gift Shop

Find more Berkshire shopping inspiration here, and if you’re interested in experiencing a cannabis dispensary during your visit, explore this list of companies eager to shepherd your journey. Also, in addition to Small Business Saturday on November 29, 2025, consider supporting our museum gift shops the following day on Museum Store Sunday on November 3o. A few ideas…Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum, Chesterwood, The Clark, MASS MoCA, Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum, and the Williams College Museum Shop. This #shoplocal season, enjoy shopping #intheberkshires! Whatever you’re shopping for, you’re likely to find it in the Berkshires!

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