What is more “New England” than a general store? I’m not sure if there is such a thing! Today we’re taking a three-state trip to find some of the area’s best general stores. These come in all shapes and sizes from classic to modern, functional to touristy.
New Hampshire
Zeb’s General Store, North Conway, NH
Remember when I said some are touristy? Case in point, Zeb’s. Although ultra-touristy, it doesn’t make Zeb’s any less fun! (Although you may need to wait in season to get in). Zeb’s is situated in the heart of North Conway and appeals to visitors of all ages. The downstairs has a large candy counter, souvenirs, and other stuff you’ll want to take home. The upstairs has the bookstore, Christmas shop, and toys. A trip to North Conway is not complete without at least one trip to Zeb’s. Whenever my son visits, he needs a lollipop that’s about as large as his head.
Scoggin’s General Store, Gorham, NH
Where Zeb’s is crazily crowded, Scoggin’s just north of North Conway in the town of Gorham is much less so. In front of Zeb’s is a large bear, whereas outside Scoggin’s is a moose. The shop itself features lots of New Hampshire merchandise. It has toys, gifts, and candy as it also caters to tourists. It may not have the bear outside, but a picture must be taken with the large bear that greets visitors just inside the door.
Massachusetts
Plimoth General Store, Plymouth, MA
The Plimoth General Store is the newest on the list as it opened its doors last year. Housed in a beautiful space on Main Street, it has all you need for everyone on your list. It serves excellent sandwiches (try the chicken salad) and baked goods. Although much of the merchandise has a local flair that would make the perfect gift or take-home memory, it’s light years away from the average tourist shop ware. Think stylish clothes, pillows with local references, or books by local authors (including mine!) Provisions? Of course, with an emphasis on the local, choose from an array of cheeses and meats for a picnic. The back of the store houses the Craft Beer Cellar which sells single bottles and cans. The penny candy area, as well as the wine display, are both housed in safes as this building was a former bank.
1856 Country Store, Centerville, MA
If Plimoth is new, the next few are old. The 1856 Country Store is located at the heart of the village of Centerville, close to Craigville Beach and the famous Four Seas Ice Cream. Find lots of Cape Cod merch, penny candy, and novelties. It’s a Cape Cod classic. The building dates from the 1840s and it’s been a general store since 1856 with the current owners in charge since the 1970s.
Davoll’s General Store, South Dartmouth, MA
At over 200 years old, Davoll’s combines the old with the new. It’s a popular stop for the local kids clamoring for penny candy but also sells housewares, soaps, and other giftable items. One of the most popular features is the bookstore. Also on site is a “brown bar,” which serves lunch, dinner, and beer. Look for an excellent draft list but don’t expect to find TVs on the walls. A “brown bar” is devoid of distraction, where conversation and board games are featured entertainment.
Bramhall’s Country Store, Plymouth, MA
Plymouth’s destination for the freshest locally sourced food, in a historic setting. Talk about family-run, the great-great-great-great-grandfather of the current owners founded the store almost 200 years ago! The building dates from 1750 and is the focal point of the village of Chiltonville. It’s a bit different than most on the list with the focus being fresh produce, lobsters, and ice cream. The store itself only sells a few items, including Bramhalls’ merchandise and local goods.
Vermont
F.H. Gillingham and Sons, Woodstock, VT
Finally, our trip to New England general stores takes us to Vermont, the ultimate general store state! Gillingham’s is huge! It’s functional as a true general store should be. This means you can buy your actual groceries here. But it’s also stocked with tons of VT gear, a toy store area, clothes, and local food, beer, and wine. It’s popular with the tourists but also essential for the locals.
Shaw’s General Store, Stowe, VT
Located in the heart of downtown Stowe, come to Shaw’s for all your Vermont needs. Think loads of hats, sweatshirts, and other clothes, many embroidered with “Vermont” or “Stowe” on them. With toys, shoes, and other fun stuff, it’s a popular stop when you’re in town. Sticking to the animal theme, Shaw’s also often has a large monkey sitting on a bench outside of the store.
Dan and Whit’s, Norwich, VT
For our last of the New England general stores, we’re heading to central Vermont to the town of Norwich. Whereas many of the buildings that house these general stores harken back to a bygone era, Dan and Whit’s does not. The architecture won’t draw you in unless that bygone era is the 20th century. What will though is the authenticity and selection. Norwich is a small town and this store serves all of your needs. Food? Hardware? Clothes? Beer? Yes, yes, yes and yes. Nothing like a Heady Topper and a chainsaw! (Hmmm… sounds like an entry in the six-pack series!)
Visiting Vermont, Massachusetts, or New Hampshire soon and want a slice of a simpler time (or at least a perceived simpler time)? Check out any of these New England general stores. From touristy to utilitarian, from the Cape to the mountains, these will enrich any New England road trip!
