No matter what your style, Golden Gait Mercantile in Ferndale and Plaza in Arcata should be on your list of retail experiences to enjoy year-round.
Walk into this two-story classic general store, smell the sassafras and step back in time. We defy you to resist the old-fashioned candy counter owners Julie and John Kreitzer keep stocked with sweets from the good old days. You'll also find shelves of locally produced foods and some favorites from the UK.
Antique showcases brim with an eclectic mix of the nostalgic and the new: millinery, vintage deadstock general store merchandise, collectibles, retro toys, pre-1915 Sun Amethyst glassware, toiletries, cards and housewares. Everything downstairs is worth a look, but leave yourself time to head upstairs to see the new Heritage Lace section, small furniture and a museum of replica storefronts complete with turn-of-the century goods and packaging.
421 Main St., Ferndale
(707) 786-4891
www.goldengaitmercantile.com
Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
The flagship store for Baroni Jewelry offers thoughtfully curated objects. You'll want to smell all the bath and body products, and touch all the soft scarves and luxurious leather bags. For hard-to-buy-for practical types, you'll find a large selection of stylish barware and accessories, beautifully crafted toiletry kits, journals, checkbook covers and key chains. Pick up books or treasures for the little people on your list as well, and peruse the artsy greeting cards. Plaza even has a section of cards by local artists.
If you're looking to pick up some of the locally produced Fire & Light dishware, the haul here is the largest in the county. It's also the exclusive local dealer for Lee and Cisco Brothers' eco-forward, design-driven furniture. Kids with you? Let them play in the kids' corner while you browse the table linens, pillows, blankets, art and candles.
808 G St., Arcata
(707) 822-2250
www.plazaarcata.com
Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.