Here are great gift shops that are sure have just what you need for your holiday shopping lists!

If you’re shopping for a classy, cool antique lover, then you must stop by Persnickety by Jen Farley in Alton. Jen has personally hand-picked wall art, classic furniture, and home décor that is lit up with iconic stained-glass lamps and a hand-crafted scent that mixes sophistication and nostalgia. Jen also has ornaments of all Alton favorites like Abe Lincoln and an eagle! Stop by to find that one-of-a-kind gift for that one-of-a-kind person on your list!

Got a new mama or sweet little babe in the family? Head to Polished Prints in Edwardsville for all things mom, baby, and girlie! From comfy everyday pieces like the cozy “Mom Crop” to the adorable Tater Tot sweatshirt for the newest little tot, this shop is full of heart-melting finds. You’ll also discover beautiful home goodies like mugs, cocktail glasses, and books that are perfect for the girls in your life. And what makes Polished Prints extra special for the holidays is their very own craft bar for rentals or drop-ins, making it the perfect place to cross friends off your list.

Shopping for a history buff on your list? Visit Historic Treasures in Carlinville and see if you can help complete a collection years in the making. From first-edition Goosebumps books to classic car memorabilia—and even a pristine 1990s Coca-Cola Polar Bear Beanie Baby, you’re sure to uncover something special. If they love nostalgia, stories, and rare finds, this is the perfect place to check off their gift list this holiday season.

Looking for something that will make your down-to-earth loved one light up with glee this holiday season? Stop by Maggie Lyn Mercantile in Hillsboro and explore rows of homemade, thrifted, and upcycled goods. From big gifts to small surprises, this shop is sure to help you find something as uniquely special as the person you’re shopping for.

Eager to add the perfect piece to someone’s home or man cave this holiday season? Look no further than in Second Hand Barrels in Godfrey. This three-generation, family-owned business creates remarkable home décor by giving new life to recycled barrels. Many of their pieces are custom made, so now is the perfect time to call and design a handcrafted barrel that fits your vision.

Craving a bit of Christmas nostalgia? Honeybee Vintage in downtown Alton brings that vibe to life. Walking through the front door is just like stepping right back in to your grandma's house on Christmas Eve. The shop is full of holiday decor, locally made goodies, classic wardrobe pieces and all sorts of charming trinkets that bring out the warm, fuzzy feeling.

Do you know someone who always seems to smell amazing—whether it’s their home or themselves? If they love creating things, consider gifting them a candle-making class at Keepsake Candle Company in Edwardsville. Classes for 1, 2, 4, or even groups of 20 are available to book right on their website. They also offer hand-poured candles, perfect for last-minute gifts or stocking stuffers.

Is someone on your list already longing for the days of summer fun in the Great Rivers and Routes region? Bring a little sunshine to their winter by gifting season passes to Raging Rivers Waterpark in Grafton or Collinsville Aqua Park in Collinsville. This gift will have them counting down the days until summer—and thinking of you through every cold day ahead.

No box, bag, or wrapping paper is big enough for this next unforgettable gift. For the horse lover or outdoor adventurer on your list, book a scenic horseback ride at Pere Marquette Riding Stables. The 2.5-mile guided ride through Pere Marquette State Park offers breathtaking views and an experience they will talk about for years to come.

Take me out to the ballgame, take me out with the crowd, buy them a season pass to the local favorite, the Alton River Dragons, for the perfect gift. This pass is ideal for the baseball or sports lover on your list who never misses a game. Who knows, Santa might even bring the River Dragons some new gear for the upcoming season.

The Edwardsville Art Center and Macoupin Art Collective (MAC) have packed their winter calendars with art classes, making this the perfect gift for anyone who loves working with their hands. From painting to ceramics and a wide variety of other art forms, there are classes for both adults and kids. Who knows, this gift might even inspire them to create something special for you in return.

Surprise your family or friends with a night out at a terrific locally owned and operated restaurant. Here are a few suggestions with gift cards to match.

The Terrace at Aerie’s Resort in Grafton – With one of the best views in the region, this lofty restaurant sits 300 feet above the mighty rivers and offers the perfect dining experience. The menu is full of delicious food and wines and a ride on the scenic Grafton Skytour to the restaurant makes this more than a foodie experience. Think about having a staycation in the resort! This gift is sure to delight while helping you check everyone off your list.

Brick + Bramble in Edwardsville has everything you need to gift the perfect date night. A gift card from B+B can turn even the Grinchiest spirit into a festive Santa. They’re also offering a 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas Box, complete with bourbon and tasting notes—a gift that feels like one for them and one for you!

Josephine’s Gift Shop and Tea Room in Godfrey offers a truly magical experience with beautifully styled gifts and plated meals. The elegance and charm of the Tea Room makes for an unforgettable luncheon experience — one everyone will want to receive again next holiday season. A gift card from Josephine’s is sure to bring joy to anyone who receives it.

Doc’s Just Off 66 in Girard offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience right off the Mother Road of Route 66. Gifting a card here isn’t just a meal—it’s a taste of nostalgia, a reminder of the good old days when soda fountains were everywhere and everything felt just right. Perfect for anyone longing for a cruise down Route 66 with a familiar bite at the end.

The Garden Gate Tea Room in Granite City is a whimsical escape for anyone on your list. A gift card opens the door to a leisurely lunch and a chance to unwind for an hour or two. Right next door, they can explore Novel Idea Boardgamery and grab a bite at Downtown Diner too, a full day of fun and relaxation all in one place. This one gift from you can turn into a day of experiences!

Do you have a special store, restaurant or experience that would make a great holiday gift? Let us know!

Send your ideas to Delilah Donaldson and we will include them in this blog and maybe even showcase them in our social media posts!