Here’s the thing about shopping locally for the holidays: it’s a trifecta of holiday goodness. By sticking to local shops, you’re reducing the carbon footprint on goods while getting a much better gift than a big box store offers and you’re keeping small businesses thriving. Look at you go!
If that’s not reason enough to keep those dollars local to SLO this holiday season, we’re tossing in a free $25 gift card for making at least $100 in purchases at local businesses.
Consider this guide your official permission to shop to your heart’s content in the charming heart of the Central Coast this season.
Buy Local Bonus is Back!
Now that you’re sold on shopping locally in SLO, here’s a little incentive to visit some of our favorite places. From now until Dec. 24, (while supplies last) shoppers who spend at least $100 at local retailers will earn a $25 gift card to another local business. Hang on to your receipts, then bring them by the SLO Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center by 4 p.m. Christmas Eve. You can also mail your receipts to [email protected] if you can’t make it in person.
Gifts For Outdoors Lovers
One of the best ways to Live the SLO Life is to get outside every day. And all that fun requires a little gear from time to time, so why not hit up a local shop that caters to lovers of the outdoors?
The Mountain Air is the only “prime” shopping you’ll need this season, with their well-curated selection of backpacking gear, socks, boots and skiing/snowboarding gear. Get everything for the golfer in your life at Straight Down Sportswear, or, if your recipient prefers their fun on two wheels, check out Foothill Cyclery for all things bike. The surf’s always up at Central Coast Surfboards and Moondoggies Surf Shop.
For a full list of SLO outdoors retailers, visit our Shopping page.
Shopping for Fashionistas
Admittedly, it can be hard to shop for fashion lovers, but when you see the right item, it’s well worth the effort. Start at the cute and chic French Quarter for current, fun and fashion-forward women’s clothing and accessories, all of high quality. The size-inclusive luxury boutique Opulence is the perfect spot for affordable clothing in all sizes.
Under the Willow sells women’s apparel just a stone’s throw from Mission Plaza. Avanti and Ambiance are also worth stopping in for popular brands. Shopping for that special guy in your life? Look no further than Ritual Barbershop & Apparel, where an old-fashioned barbershop meets a haberdashery in a decidedly masculine, urban setting. Or head on over to Mr. Michael’s for some custom clothing and design.
Gifts for Those Who Appreciate Culture
If you have a book lover on your holiday shopping list, turn the page on those big online sites and shop locally at Phoenix Books. Offering new, used and antique books, Phoenix is a place to wander around and get lost in — and don’t be afraid to pick yourself up a little something here, too. For the vinyl lover in your life, Boo Boo Records is ground zero for records, CDs, DVDs and other musical/cinematic treasures from the recent past. SLO is also home to quite a few places to pick up some original artwork, art supplies and other cultural souvenirs. Check out our list of local galleries.
Gifts for Kiddos
If anyone knows toys for kids in SLO, it’s Lesa Smith, owner of Whiz Kids. She focuses her store’s inventory on creativity and learning. In other words, gifts that inspire thinking such as puzzles, board games and decidedly non-electronic goods. Tom’s Toys carries LEGOs, Funko Pop, Pokemon and all the things kids are into these days. Don’t miss The Mercantile for locally produced children’s items, clothing, jewelry and more.
Park it Right There
OK, we’ve saved one final incentive to get you to visit downtown SLO this holiday season. Worried about parking? Fret not. The City of SLO is waiving parking fees on certain days throughout the holidays. The first hour of parking each day is free in the three structures, and the entire day is free every Sunday through New Year’s Day as well as Thanksgiving weekend, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve! See the details here.
So, what’d you find at our local shops this season? Share your treasures and other SLO experiences on social media with #ShareSLO.