When it comes to shopping small, there are dozens of cities across the U.S. that foster a warm sense of community and encourage residents to shop locally and support small-scale, mom-and-pop businesses. But each year, there are a few cities that stand out among the rest. As American Express celebrates its tenth annual Small Business Saturday on November 30, we’re pointing to the brand’s honorary cities, and some of the best little shops you can find.
Whether you’re planning to be in one of these towns during Small Business Saturday this November, or you call the city home, these cities are worth a shopping stop—and also happen to be terrific travel destinations. Pro tip: take a look at the American Express Shop Small map, which can help you seek out the best small business wherever you happen to be.
Just in time for Christmas, you’re sure to find some stellar gifts at the shops below.
New York
Most New Yorkers are no stranger to Strand Books, an institution for the city’s book scene. Opened over 90 years ago, the store is home to some 2.5 million new and used books.
This Brooklyn-born Williamsburg jewelry brand is just as ethically conscious as the jewelry is beautiful. All products are made in-house in Brooklyn, and the team at Catbird is all about treating all people and steps in the production process with the utmost respect.
If we can assure you of one thing, it’s probably that you’ll get really hungry at some point during your shopping excursion in the Big Apple. Fiat Cafe Nolita is the perfect place to pop into when you’re ready to escape the cold. You can expect delicious plates and a European cafe feel.
Los Angeles
This little boutique in the heart of Abbot Kinney is a Scandinavian dream-boutique come true. The brand is all about modern Scandinavian design, and sells a beautifully-curated collection of contemporary products.
Consider this small shop one of the best places to find your next fragrance in LA. Visit the Historic Row location in DTLA and discover a clean and elegant perfumerie featuring cult classics and some options that are lesser-known.
Portland, Oregon
Portlanders love their fresh flowers. Head to Goose Hollow Flowers for a stunning bouquet of the finest quality, sourced locally, as the brand loves to support growers from around Portland.
Shoppers will find both vintage and modern clothing in this chic and eclectic boutique that offers clothing inspired by the desert of Southern Arizona.
Nashville
Two close friends started Imogene + Willie, a homegrown blue jean brand with the goal of creating comfortable, stylish jeans for both men and women.
It doesn’t get much more stylish than Killebrew coffee. Located within the Thompson Nashville Hotel, this roastery serves up some of the city’s very best coffee: Revelator.
Miami
An ethical, sustainable, super-chic fashion boutique, Antidote is all about clean lines and clean production.
Known as a very unique type of plant store, Plant the Future is a biophilic design studio, plant boutique, and botanic art gallery. The geniuses behind this concept store are all about designing spaces that promote well-being.
