New York City is a shopping paradise, bursting with unique boutiques, vibrant markets, and hidden gems that only the savviest locals know about. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, there’s always something new to discover. Let us be your guide to navigating the best shopping spots in the city with insider tips, sustainable choices, and plenty of charm.
Here are NYC-and-Brooklyn originals to add to your “shop like a local” list—famous, independent, and very much open. Each one’s perfect to pair with our NoMad/Flatiron tour day or your next neighborhood wander.
Strand Book Store (Manhattan) — 18 miles of books, baby.
Address: 828 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Website:strandbooks.comFishs Eddy (Flatiron) — iconic dishware, diner vibes, and witty NYC glassware; now with a new DUMBO outpost too.
Address (Flagship): 889 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Website:fishseddy.comEconomy Candy (Lower East Side) — a 1937 time capsule of sweets from floor to ceiling.
Address: 108 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
Website:economycandy.com
Check it out with us on our Lower East Side Foodie Experience!- This food tour is an immersive, historical and culinary journey through New York City’s Lower East Side, Chinatown, and Little Italy, celebrating the enduring immigrant experience and cultural heritage of the area through its diverse and delicious food.
Sahadi’s (Brooklyn) — legendary Middle Eastern grocer for spices, nuts, olives & gifts.
Address (Original): 187 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Website:sahadis.com
Check it out with us on our Industry City Brooklyn Design Tour!This tour offers a captivating, behind-the-scenes look at Industry City, Brooklyn’s massive adaptive reuse project. Explore a labyrinth of large warehouse buildings, highlighting Brooklyn’s vibrant blend of creativity, innovation, and culinary delights.
Russ & Daughters – The Shop (Lower East Side) — smoked fish, bagels, babka; a century of NYC appetizing.
Address: 179 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
Website:russanddaughters.comCatbird (Williamsburg) — Brooklyn-born fine jewelry and Forever Bracelets.
Address (Flagship): 108 N 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Website:catbirdnyc.comBooks Are Magic (Cobble Hill) — beloved indie by author Emma Straub; great events & staff picks.
Address: 225 Smith St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Website:booksaremagic.netMcNally Jackson – City Point (Downtown Brooklyn) — two floors of beautifully curated reads.
Address: 445 Albee Sq W, Unit G112, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Website:mcnallyjackson.com
Neighborhoods Known for Boutique Shopping and Artisanal Goods
SoHo
SoHo’s cobblestone streets are lined with trendy boutiques and high-end stores, but it’s also home to a wealth of independent shops where you can find one-of-a-kind pieces. Stroll down Spring Street and West Broadway to uncover treasures in art, fashion, and home decor.
Williamsburg
Brooklyn’s Williamsburg is a hotspot for creative minds and stylish shoppers. Bedford Avenue is the main artery, dotted with boutique stores offering handmade jewelry, artisanal clothing, and unique home goods. Don’t miss Artists & Fleas, a market featuring local designers and vintage vendors.
Greenwich Village
For a bohemian flair, Greenwich Village is your go-to. Explore Bleecker Street for charming shops selling everything from rare books to artisanal chocolates. The Village’s relaxed vibe makes it perfect for a leisurely shopping day.
Insider Tips for Finding Unique Souvenirs and Gifts
When it comes to souvenirs, skip the usual suspects and opt for something truly memorable. In the East Village, check out Cloak & Dagger for stylish vintage finds. For quirky tchotchkes, head to Pearl River Mart in SoHo, where you’ll find adorable gifts for all ages. And if you’re near Central Park, pop into the Museum of Arts and Design’s store for contemporary crafts and design pieces.
Image by: Chelseaflea.com
Flea Markets, Vintage Shops, and Craft Fairs Worth Exploring
Chelsea Flea Market
Located on West 25th Street, Chelsea Flea Market is a treasure trove of antiques, collectibles, and vintage fashion. It’s a favorite among locals for its eclectic mix and reasonable prices.
Brooklyn Flea
Held in different locations depending on the season, Brooklyn Flea is legendary. It’s not just a market but an experience, with food vendors, live music, and some of the best vintage and handmade goods in the city.
Hester Street Fair
On the Lower East Side, Hester Street Fair is the place to find emerging designers and local artisans. It’s smaller and more intimate, making it easier to chat with vendors and learn about their crafts.
Learn about tons more in this post linked here! We update this regularly, giving you the latest inside scoop.
How to Haggle Respectfully and Support Local Makers & Businesses
Haggling can be an art form in New York’s markets. The key is to be respectful and friendly. Start with a smile and show genuine interest in the item. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask, “Is this the best price you can offer?” If you’re buying multiple items, politely suggest a bundle discount. Supporting local businesses is not just about getting a good deal. It’s about building relationships and contributing to the community. Many vendors rely on these sales as their livelihood, so always aim for a fair price that respects their craft and effort.
Image by: Likealocaltours.com
Sustainable Shopping with Our Sustainable Brooklyn Food & Fashion Tour
This tour is an immersive experience that takes you off the beaten path to explore the best of Brooklyn’s sustainable shopping scene. We dive deep into vibrant neighborhoods like Williamsburg, known for their commitment to sustainability and creativity. Our journey includes stops at Artists & Fleas, a curated market featuring local designers and vintage vendors, and 10 Ft Single by Stella Dallas, a haven for vintage lovers. We will also visit Awoke Vintage, known for its eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary pieces, and Beacon’s Closet, a local favorite promoting a circular fashion economy through its buy-sell-trade model.
Making a Positive Impact
By choosing the Sustainable Brooklyn Food & Fashion Tour, you’re not just enjoying a fantastic shopping experience; you’re also making a positive impact on the environment. Each store we visit is dedicated to sustainable practices, from ethical sourcing to reducing waste. Supporting these businesses helps promote a more sustainable economy and encourages others to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Shopping like a local in New York City is about more than just buying things; it’s about connecting with the city’s vibrant culture and the people who make it special. So lace up your walking shoes, bring an open mind, and get ready to discover the best sustainable shopping experiences Brooklyn has to offer. Happy hunting!
Want something tailor-made 🥁 for you and your shopping needs?
Skip the tourist traps and generic department stores with our Personalized NYC Shopping Tour, where you’re paired with an expert stylist and designer for a completely curated journey. Whether you’re hunting for a vintage masterpiece, the latest SoHo designer menswear, or unique home décor, your guide crafts an itinerary around your budget and taste, offering insider access, private previews, and styling advice. It’s more than just shopping; it’s a fashion-forward immersion into the city’s hidden gems, ensuring you leave with pieces you truly love and a new appreciation for NYC style.
