Let's shop local! It 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 shopping adventure we have listed out premier picks in Greater Lansing's surrounding communities you can support by shopping small.

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. Stopping by Uncle John’s Cider Mill, is 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 St. John's Brewing Company, a full-service taproom and smokehouse. Serving up smoked meats paired with their own delicious craft beers.

Downtown Lansing

Experience the best of Lansing, Michigan by exploring its local gems. Venture into the heart of the city and indulge in the freshest roasted nuts, snack items and candy at The Peanut Shop. Discover the new kind of retail space at Middle Village Micro Market that supports up-and-coming business owners. Stop in Sweet Encounter Bakery for a delicious selection of gluten-free and vegan goodies. And while you're there, be sure to ask about their Sweet Encounter Kids Culinary Academy monthly kit. This kit includes three theme recipes with step-by-step instructions, a utensil of the month, a shopping list, and fun activities, making it the perfect way to introduce your kids to the joys of cooking. Don't miss out on Impression 5 Science Center's gift shop, which offers a diverse selection of science-themed toys, games, and books that are sure to spark curiosity and encourage learning. The Michigan History Museum's gift shop is also a must-visit, offering a wide range of Michigan themed gifts, clothing, books, and more. Come and explore Lansing's unique and vibrant culture today, and experience the best shopping and dining that the city has to offer!

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 a vibrant college town that offers the perfect blend of entertainment, shopping, and dining. Take a stroll around campus and visit the locally owned Spartan Spirit Shops, who have seven locations across campus and are packed with MSU-themed gear and gifts. The MSU Broad Art Museum store is also worth a visit, featuring a wide selection of artist-made goods and gifts from stationery and jewelry to home goods. Inner Circle Wharton Gifts, located in the Wharton Center for Performing Arts' lobby, specializes in unique gifts, performance-related items, including artwork, books, accessories, and more.  And if you're looking for more specialty shops, head downtown to explore Curious Book Shop, Saper Galleries, and Quark!, where you can find a treasure trove of unique and thoughtful gifts. Shop local, support the community and unleash your inner Spartan!

Warm Up at The Peanut Barrel, serving up crazy good burgers, beer and lots of fun!

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 Flour Child Bakery & Cafe for the Lansing Area's Best Bagels, unique sandwiches, salads, and quiches as well as locally roasted coffee.

Mason

Nestled just southeast of Lansing, Mason is home to well-preserved turn-of-the-century buildings housing a plethora of locally-owned shops and specialty stores. From antiques, books, and crafts to quilting supplies, toys, jewelry, and more, you'll find everything you need and more at shops like The Kean's Store Company and Simply Vintage Marketplace.

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

Haslett

Just outside of East Lansing, Haslett is a great escape for a shopping adventure. Be sure to visit Burgdorf's Winery, where you can taste specialty wines produced and bottled onsite. Their gift shop is filled with retail wines, unique wine accessories, and gift baskets that make great presents for the wine lover in your life. For an extra touch of nature, head over to Van Atta's Greenhouse and explore their wide variety of home and garden decor, boutique gifts, and collectables. And for those who love natural products, The Beeswax Barn is a must-visit. Discover their handcrafted beeswax candles, body products, honey, and more.

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

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 only find 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, Metro Melik 517, Old Town General Store and Preuss Pets – just to name a few.

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

Okemos

Located just outside of East Lansing you’ll find the modern community of Okemos. As the holiday season approaches, Dusty’s Cellar and Framer’s Edge  are fantastic options for finding the perfect gift. Dusty’s Cellar offers a wide selection of wines and specialty foods, making it the perfect place to pick up a hostess gift or something for the foodie in your life. Framer’s Edge, specializes in custom framing and has a great selection of art and home decor. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece or a thoughtful gift, Okemos has something for everyone.

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

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.

Photography: Tom Genarra (header image) and our #lovelansing community—a special thanks for their awesome imagery and social media posts.