You’re about to wrap up your Lakes Region getaway, and you’re looking for a way to remember all the memories you made against the backdrop of sparkling lakes and breathtaking mountains.
Driving through our scenic routes, you’ll discover plenty of gift shops, galleries, and boutiques boasting a variety of New Hampshire-inspired treasures — from the edible kind (real maple candy, anyone?) to crafts and artwork from local makers. To take a piece of the New Hampshire Lakes Region home with you, consider scooping up a unique souvenir from one of these charming local businesses.
Various locations
Here in the Lakes Region, we’re fortunate enough to have several marketplaces that house a diverse array of shops and businesses all in one place. For starters, The Marketplace at Mill Falls is a can’t-miss collection of 10 shops ranging from apparel options (including the Great Northern Trading Company) to an independent bookstore (Innisfree Bookshop). The marketplace is also home to 603 Paws, a one-stop shop for all your furry friend’s needs.
Also in the area: Tanger Outlets in Tilton, which offers a variety of designer outlets and classic brand stores, including Skechers, Banana Republic, and Yankee Candle. The Ridge in Rochester (located on Route 11) and The Belknap Marketplace (next to Lake Winnisquam on Route 3) also include popular retailers and local shops in convenient, easy-to-access locations.
Ossipee
Tramway Artisans
Step into this two-level gift shop in Ossipee — located inside a renovated tramway building — and it’ll quickly become clear why this is one of New Hampshire’s most popular gift stores. With an impressive collection of handcrafted, made-in-New Hampshire items (over 70,000 of them, in fact), you’re bound to find something special.
Wolfeboro
Black’s Paper Store
Found yourself on Main Street in downtown Wolfeboro? Good news: You’re just steps away from Black’s Paper Store, a two-floor gift shop that’s been in operation since 1867, selling souvenirs like locally made chocolates, clothing, and toys.
Front Four Cellars
Who says a good bottle of wine can’t be a souvenir? After sipping a premium glass from Front Four Cellars — like the rich, maple-infused Chardonnay or coffee-infused Cabernet Sauvignon — you’ll likely want to bring a taste of this Wolfeboro winery home with you. The shop also offers T-shirts, jams, and local coffee.
Laconia
Kellerhaus
New Hampshire’s longest-running candy and ice cream business is your go-to spot for souvenirs of the sweet variety. Think: homemade fudge, peppermint patties, nonpareils, jams and jellies, and even sugar-free chocolates. The Laconia institution is open year-round and available whenever you’ve got a hankering for a sweet treat.
Tilton
Just Maple
Speaking of all things sweet — whether or not you visit the Granite State during its maple season (mid-February to mid-April), you can still scoop up a maple-inspired goodie to bring home. Open year-round, Tilton’s Just Maple sells everything from maple-scented votive candles to real maple candy.
Lakes Region Art Gallery
Acrylic, pastel, photography, watercolor, mixed media. This Tilton art gallery has it all! Stop by the Tanger Outlets to admire the work of 30 New Hampshire artists and discover a new piece of art for your home. Feeling inspired to tap into your own creativity? The association hosts classes and workshops for all skill levels.
Bristol
TwinDesigns
Owned by twin brothers Brad and Jim Tonner — as well as their pet turtle, Diane, and cats, Harry and Grace — this Bristol gift shop stocks everything from greeting cards and glassware to puzzles and trivets. You can even pick up “The Story of Diane the Turtle,” written by the Tonner brothers themselves.
Meredith
Annalee Dolls
For more than 90 years, this New Hampshire business has been bringing joy to customers of all ages. With seasonal and holiday collections, you can bring home a doll to commemorate the timing of your trip — whether it’s a Santa and reindeer set for Christmas or an Easter Parade bunny family.
Jeremy Noyes Gallery
At this Meredith-based gallery, owned by award-winning fine art landscape photographer Jeremy Noyes, you’ll find custom artwork showing off New England’s natural beauty. Be sure to browse the collection of New Hampshire prints of Lake Winnipesaukee, Mill Falls, Alton, and even more stunning corners of the Lakes Region.
League of NH Craftsmen
A shopping haven for anyone who appreciates handcrafted, one-of-a-kind artwork, the League of NH Craftsmen sells pottery, jewelry, home decor, and other items that reflect quality craftsmanship. As the name suggests, the gallery’s collection is sourced entirely from New Hampshire-based craftspeople.
Plymouth
Artistic Roots
Speaking of New Hampshire-based artists: You’ll find the work from over 40 of these local artisans at the Artistic Roots gallery in Plymouth. This cooperative, non-profit art gallery is ideal for anyone seeking fine art paintings, fiber and wood art, or pottery.
Still stuck on where to find the perfect Lakes Region keepsake? There’s even more shopping to be done around the area — with plenty of antique shops where you’ll discover trinkets and curiosities, specialty food stores carrying local produce, and other retail to explore.