Holiday Shopping- Shop Local Main Street Businesses

Shopping is a big part of the holiday season and when it comes to shopping small in the 9 Lakes region of East Tennessee make main street business one of of your stops. You will be able to shop until you drop all while supporting local businesses. Whether it’s going to Downtown Knoxville or to one of the dozens of small towns and communities throughout the area, you are sure to find unique gifts and bargains. Along the way you’ll be surrounded by history, natural beauty and southern charm. Here are a few recommendations for making the most of your shop small experience.

Clinton

While this town of 10,000 boasts one of the best antiques districts in the Southeast, downtown Clinton offers up plenty of other ways to shop small. Main Street and Market Street make up the heart of Clinton’s historic district. This is also the place you’ll find stores like Joy in the Dawn, the Johnson and Co. General Store and Hoskins in the Flat. While you’re downtown grab lunch at the Hoskins Drug Store lunch counter and if your shopping trip goes into the evening, take in a movie at the Ritz Theater next door.

Dandridge

Tennessee’s second oldest town sits along the shore of Douglas Lake. Stroll through history and the small shops for a taste of yesteryear. One of the places that really stands out is the Dandridge General Store. Step on to the creaking planks of the big wooden front porch, step inside and immerse yourself in the wide variety of gifts, home décor, food items, and more. Nearby is Tracee’s Lakeside Treasures and the Shoppes at Roper Mansion. Stop in for lunch at  Tinsley-Bible Drug Store Soda Fountain or Dandridge Brewing. For an overnight stay, the historic Shepard Inn is in the middle of it all and there are several inns and rentals just outside of town along the lake.

Morristown

If you’ve never visited Morristown before, you’ll likely notice quickly the downtown has something you won’t find anywhere. This Lakeway town boasts a network of sidewalks connecting the upper levels of most downtown buildings. Take time to shop for candles and soaps, unique gifts and even vintage clothing. Rowena’s on Main is a go to for shopping for unique gifts. Grab a meal at the Little Dutch, ice cream at Cruze Farm or a beer from 1907 Brewing. Check out the events happening at the historic Rose Center nearby or step back into history at the Davy Crockett Tavern while in town.

Newport

Just minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Newport offers up several choices when it comes to shopping small. Fruit Jar Alley sits along East Broadway, one of the main thoroughfares downtown. The store specializes in apparel, jewelry, accessories, and gifts. On the backside of the building is the Back Alley Grainery which may be the real attraction. This brewing supply store is owned and operated by Eric “Digger” Manes, one of the stars of the hit show “Moonshiners.” You will also find antique and a few specialty stores downtown. When you are ready for a pick me up, be sure and visit Snowbird Mountain Coffee or a lunch next door at the Neighborhood Brew House.

Sweetwater

Perhaps best known for being the home to the underground lake called “The Lost Sea,” it’s easy to get lost in the charm of this small town. The sweetest city in Tennessee offers plenty of places to shop small like the Sweetwater General Store and the Dogwood Lane Boutique. Grab a bite at one of the several restaurants downtown or bring home a yummy treat from Grain Bin Commodities.  Check out the vibrant murals all over downtown, all great places for a selfie while you shop small.

Downtowns are the heart and soul of our communities. During the holiday season these downtowns are decked out with festive lights and decorations making for a “merry and bright” shopping experience.