Submitted by guest blogger Eileen Mowrey 

The holidays are right around the corner, and that means shopping season is upon us! This year, ditch the department stores, strip malls, and mail-order boxes and find everything on your list in downtown Saranac Lake. 

I know, it sounds too easy, but it is possible! Along Saranac Lake’s picturesque downtown, all within walking distance of one another, are small local businesses with everything you need to start and finish your holiday shopping in one go. Imagine how much more time you’ll having for baking cookies, singing carols, and indulging in egg nog! And, in addition to being convenient for you, your purchases will be supporting the local business owners who call Saranac Lake their home.

So, make your list, check it twice, and start shopping for all these hard-to-buy-for people:

The child (or child at heart)

From infants to adults, Goody Goody’s has all the toys and games you need for under your tree. Choose from walls of board games, an entire room of Legos, soft plush toys, classic wooden blocks, and even craft kits for the creative kids in your life. At Goody Goody’s, you don’t have to worry about flying blind when it comes to board games. The helpful and enthusiastic staff will gladly assist you in finding a game worth gifting, and they will even sit down with you and teach you how to play!

The outdoorsy one

The Adirondacks is best known for its unparalleled outdoor recreation, so what better place to pick up quality gear and goods for the avid adventurers on your list? Stop by Blue Line Sports and browse their incredible selection. Choose something they can unwrap and use right away, like woolly socks, winter boots, snowshoes, or skis. Or, help fuel their outdoor passion with a new fishing pole, camping supplies, hiking boots, maps, or paddling accessories. Not a gear pro? Their team of local experts will gladly guide you in the right direction.

The earthy one

Please even the greenest of your gift receivers by shopping at EcoLiving. Their huge selection of Fair Trade Certified and sustainable products makes shopping feel positively responsible! Browse beautiful, colorful alpaca blankets, scarves, and sweaters. Or, find a one-of-a-kind gift amidst a wide selection of handmade jewelry, handbags, and accessories. A gift from EcoLiving supports more than just the local business owners – it supports the individual artisans all over the world who honed their craft to create the perfect gift for you to give.

The stylish one

T.F. Finnigan is your one-stop shop for everything fancy. T.F. Finnigan knows how to make people look good and gift-givers look amazing. Their inventory covers everything from chic Nordic sweaters for men and women to premium silk ties, three-piece suits, and sport coats. See something you’d like for yourself? Ladies, stop in for Ladies Night on December 5 to enjoy free wine and apps while filling out a personalized wish list. Then, send your beau to Guys Night on December 12 so they can enjoy beer and snacks while they shop your list. Looking for savings? T.F. Finnigan is offering huge Black Friday Savings the weekend after Thanksgiving – and you get a free drink at Bitters & Bones for every purchase made!

The souvenir seeker

If you’re merely passing through the area, consider sharing your incredible vacation experience with others by getting them a Saranac Lake souvenir from Academy & Main. Located on the first floor of the historic Hotel Saranac, this charming boutique gift shop carries a wide variety of Adirondack-inspired items, some of which are made right here in the Adirondacks. From poster art to coffee mugs to melt-in-your-mouth maple candies and aromatic balsam bags, give someone the joy of unwrapping the Adirondacks this holiday season.

The DIY-er

If you know a maker or crafter, or know someone who lives by the “buy local” mantra, The Village Mercantile has the gift for you. For passionate DIY-ers the gift of supplies is just as good (if not better) than a finished product. Wrap up some skeins of vibrantly colored yarn or inspire a new hobby by choosing a complete crafting kit. The Village Mercantile also carries a wide selection of locally-made crafts and goods, like Pure Placid’s Adirondack-scented candles, lotions, and soaps. Start a new holiday tradition by gifting an ornament or keep someone’s feet cozy and warm all year long with a quality pair of fur-lined moccasins. 

The book worm

For the book lover in your life, few presents are better than what comes in print. Explore the diverse selection at The Book Nook to find the next thrilling tale your loved one can’t wait to read. Don’t blame them if they stick their nose in it right away – a good book is hard to resist! Books are an especially good gift for kids, as it’s something they won’t grow out of quickly. If you have something in mind but don’t see it on the shelves, the Book Nook staff will be happy to place a special order.

The foodie

Gifts don’t always need to be goods. Sometimes, the best gifts come in the form of experiences! Check off those hard-to-buy-for relatives by getting them a gift certificate to one of Saranac Lake’s amazing local restaurants. Give them the joy of a night at Bitters & Bones, the mouth-watering experience of a locally-inspired meal at Fiddlehead, or transport them to France with a dinner at Left Bank Café. For couples, it’s the perfect excuse for a date night. For others, it’s a treat they might not otherwise indulge in. Either way, you’ll be a holiday hero in their eyes.

'Tis the season

Finding the perfect gift can be stressful, especially when you have so many different people to buy for. Cut the stress and step up your gift-giving game by shopping in downtown Saranac Lake this holiday season. Make a weekend of your shopping trip or visit the shops after a day exploring in the woods. You’ll find so many good gifts you might be mistaken for Santa!