Poll results: Here are the best spots to shop local in Charlotte, according to you
While we were putting together this year’s holiday guide to local gifts in the Charlotte area, we reached out to get your take on the best local spots to shop, as well.
CharlotteFive readers sent in a handful of local stores that serve a variety of needs, including home goods, books, clothing and art. Most of the stores submitted were also nominated multiple times, leading us to believe these truly are stores that are the cream of the crop when it comes to shopping local.
Here are the best local small businesses to shop at in the Charlotte area, according to you:
Blackhawk Hardware
Location: Park Road Shopping Center, 4225 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC 28209
What it sells: Don’t let the name fool you — Blackhawk Hardware isn’t your ordinary hardware store. There are tools, paint and garden decor, but you’ll also find holiday ornaments, kitchenware, toys and pet items.
Dilworth Artisan Station
Location: 118 E Kingston Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203
What it sells: Dilworth Artisan Station is an art gallery that represents more than 30 local artists. You’ll find a variety of paintings, along with photography, mosaics and even jewelry.
K | La Boutique
Location: Park Road Shopping Center, 4123 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC 28209
What it sells: K | La Boutique sells women’s fashions, along with accessories. You can shop for office wear, party looks and more. There’s even a collection called “I’m a cool mom.”
Main St. Antiques and Design Gallery
Location: Merino Mill, 500 S Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115
What it sells: Main St. Antiques and Design Gallery is the largest spot of its kind in the Carolinas, with more than 500 vendors selling antiques, vintage goods, artwork, clothing, jewelry and accessories.
Paper Skyscraper
Location: 330 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Location: 101 S. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC, 28280
What it sells: Paper Skyscraper — which recently opened a second location uptown — is a go-to gift spot for Charlotte-centric items. You can find local books, drinkware and clothing, along with stocking stuffers, cards and Pride merch.
Park Road Books
Location: Park Road Shopping Center, 4139 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC 28209
What it sells: Park Road Books is a local bookstore where you can purchase books but also take part in events. The store hosts multiple book clubs, as well as author talks and other reading-focused gatherings.
Southern Lion
Location: 11033 Carolina Pl Pkwy, Pineville, NC 28134
What it sells: Southern Lion is a home goods and vintage store that houses more than 100 vendors. Shop there for home decor, furniture, clothing and accessories, along with holiday items.
This story was originally published December 6, 2023 at 6:00 AM.
