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. Click on the pictures to get a link (in blue) to connect directly to each vendors website and start shopping!
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. Nelson Gallery brings well-curated art and design to downtown Lansing in the one-of-a-kind Nelson Building. Definitely make a stop at Middle Village Micro Market, a new kind of retail space for up-and-coming business owners and the Lansing Art Gallery, offering exhibitions, public art and artwork sales.
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 Curious Book Shop, Saper Galleries, Flat, Black and Circular and Quark!.
Warm Up at The Peanut Barrel, serving up crazy good burgers, beer and lots of fun!
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.
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. Don't miss The Beeswax Barrn filled with handcraft beeswax candles, body products, honey, and more..
Warm Up at Red Cedar Spirits with a craft cocktail on their heated patio.
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, Michigan Barn & Wood Salvage and Simply Vintage Marketplace are loaded with tons of specialty 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.
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.
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.
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 St. John's Brewing Company, a full-service taproom and smokehouse. Serving up smoked meats paired with their own delicious craft beers.
Author
Valeri Gill, CTA
Valeri Gill, a graduate of Michigan State University and Lansing Community College, loves her hometown of Lansing. As a mom to two busy kids she's always looking for new ways to explore the Greater Lansing area. You can find Valeri and her family roaming museums, like Impression 5 Science Center, or playing in the great outdoors, a favorite being the urban beach at Rotary Park. She sure loves Lansing and hopes you will too!
