Capitol News

Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce issued the following announcement on Nov. 13

More than ever it’s important to shop local this holiday season. Shopping local helps create jobs in the community, keeps money in mid-Michigan, supports small businesses that in turn, give back to the neighborhood and those businesses offer more unique products which keeps communities diverse. It makes everybody a winner! To help guide you on your holiday shopping adventure we have listed out premier picks in Greater Lansing's surrounding communities you can support by shopping small this year. Some have even made accommodations to help you shop safer by offering curbside pickup and online ordering.

On top of all the great gift buying shops in Greater Lansing there are also many popup holiday shopping exhibitions happening this season—check out our Holiday Shopping Events blog for more info.

Many of our attractions have signed the Greater Lansing Safe Pledge to show their commitment in helping mid-Michigan stand out as a safe choice for all visitors. For more information on how to plan a safe trip to Lansing check out our Know Before You Go and How To Be A Good Customer blogs.

Downtown Lansing

Discover one of a kind dining and shopping experiences right in the heart of Michigan. Local places like the ever so tasty Peanut Shop, serve up fresh-roasted nuts, snack items and candy. Keep an eye out for the Lansing Art Gallery who is offering online and outdoor opportunities for engagement in the arts. Take part in their virtual exhibitions, public art and artwork sales/curbside pickup. Stay tuned for popup shops on their blog and social media sites.

Warm Up at Midtown Brewing Company for some tasty locally sourced food and drinks.

East Lansing

Home to the Big Ten campus of Michigan State University, the city of East Lansing is lined with pubs, eateries and shopping of every kind. This is the place to find that perfect gift for the Spartan fan in your life. Like at the locally owned Spartan Spirit Shops, who have seven locations spread throughout campus and an ample amount of MSU themed gear and gifts. Make sure to head off campus to downtown East Lansing and check out the many specialty shops that offer creative and thoughtful gifts, like Country Stitches, Curious Book Shop, Saper Galleries, and Flat, Black and Circular.

Warm Up at the recently opened Jolly Pumpkin, serving up delicious food offerings and award-winning craft beer.

spartanspiritshopSpartan Spirit Shop at MSU Union

Grand Ledge

Just a short drive west of Lansing, situated along the Grand River, this picturesque town got its name from the river and the 500-million-year-old sandstone ledges that tower along its banks—known as the Ledges. Downtown Grand Ledge's historic buildings are filled with unique shops, places to grab a bite to eat or quench your thirst with a micro-brew. And those streets are lined with an endless amount of locally owned businesses. Places like Ledge Craft Lane offer a creative collection of memorabilia and gifts.

Warm Up at BrickHaven Brewing Company for craft beer and a full menu of starters, sandwiches, soups, desserts, and more.

Haslett

Just outside of East Lansing is the sprawling suburb of Haslett. Take the time to unwind on your shopping adventure and sip on specialty wines produced and bottled onsite at Burgdorf’s Winery (reservations recommended). Also, make sure to peruse their gift shop which is always packed with retail wines, unique wine accessories and gift baskets. Close by is Van Atta’s Greenhouse which offers a wide variety of home and garden decor as well as boutique gifts and collectables.

Warm Up at Red Cedar Spirits with a craft cocktail on their heated patio.

Mason

Just southeast of the Lansing you’ll find the charming small town of Mason. Inside well-preserved turn-of-the-century buildings you will discover plenty of locally owned shops and specialty stores. Shops like Kean's Store Company and Michigan Barn & Wood Salvage are loaded with tons of special gifts—from antiques, books and crafts to quilting supplies, toys, jewelry and more.

Warm Up at BAD Brewing Company in their heated outdoor tent, serving craft beverages throughout the year.

Okemos

Located just outside of East Lansing you’ll find the modern community of Okemos. Locally owned shops like Dusty’s Cellar, Kellie's Consignments and Framer’s Edge provide a great opportunity to find the perfect gift this holiday season.

Warm Up at Stillwater Grill featuring local and seasonal items freshly prepared and uniquely styled.

Old Town Lansing

Located on a bend of the Grand River with businesses and attractions sprawling from the corner of Turner Street and Grand River Avenue, Old Town is a unique and creative district and home of the area's largest cluster of Victorian-style buildings. Here you will find a plethora of locally owned galleries, dining, boutiques, specialty shops and more. Places like Absolute Gallery, Bad Annie’s Sweary Goods, Cravings Gourmet Popcorn, Elderly Instruments, Grace Boutique, Mother & Earth Baby Boutique, Old Town General Store, Polka Dots Boutique, Preuss Pets, Sweet Custom Jewelry and Vets Too Boutique – just to name a few.

Warm Up at Meat. Southern B.B.Q. & Carnivore Cuisine, serving slow smoked meats and scratch-made sides.

REO Town Lansing

Originally home to the R.E. Olds Motor Company, today REO Town’s renovated streetscape on Washington Avenue is now home to a dynamic and diverse community of creative restaurants, retail shops and professional services. Explore local shops like REO Town Marketplace which features over 9,000 sq. feet of one-of-a-kind shopping or ALT Printing Company, a printmaking studio offering a wide-range of fun, screen-printed shirts, baby onesies, bandanas for your pets, tote bags, wine totes and more.

Warm Up with a craft coffee at Blue Owl Coffee or a made-from-scratch pizza at Sleepwalker Spirits and Ale.

St. John’s

Stretching out from the exquisite Clinton County courthouse you will find the inviting main street of St. John's. This beautifully preserved downtown is filled with diverse boutique shops, galleries, eateries and cafés. Like the oh-so delicious OH Mi Organics chocolate shop, serving up gluten, peanut, soy and tree-nut free gourmet chocolates. And just down the road you'll find Uncle John’s Cider Mill, a definite must see while you’re in the area. Their gift shop carries a large variety of toys, candy, Michigan made goods as well as Michigan souvenirs, home décor, hard cider, wine and wine related merchandise, jewelry and accessories.

Warm Up at Looking Glass Brewing Company in DeWitt, just a short drive south from St. Johns, this microbrewery has it all from craft drinks to a full menu.

Williamston

This historic town is situated on the Red Cedar River and is known for its Victorian architecture, antique stores, shopping, wonderful restaurants and beautiful family-friendly parks. Packed with an abundance of locally owned shops, Williamston is a great spot to shop small this year. Places like the Antiques Market of Williamston feature vintage, antique, one-of-a-kind gifts and collectables. There's also Fireworks Glass Studio which carries some amazing glass art in their shop, including decorative and functional art pieces, like pendants and vases. They also have seasonal designs, unique ornaments and will even custom design some glass work per your request.

Warm Up at The Bistro, their focus on creative, local, artistic food and drink makes this place extra tasty. And their glass light fixtures were made by Fireworks Glass Studios!

Original source can be found here.