Rhode Island's Top Holiday Shopping Spots
Stressing out to find last-minute gifts for the holidays? Thankfully, Rhode Island is full of great shopping destinations, from weekend craft festivals to charming city streets and even large shopping malls with varied stories. Whether you’ re looking for something remarkable and quirky or want something simple, you’ll find yourself with more than enough options for your holiday shopping in the Ocean State this 2024 holiday season.
Newport, RI
Newport—already bursting with charm no matter the season—is especially festive during the holidays. They line their shopping district with lights and tinsel, providing a fun atmosphere as you shop. You’ll be sure to find great gifts at the galleries of local artists or souvenir shops with nautical themes.
Providence Place Mall, Providence, RI
This indoor shopping mall—the largest in Rhode Island—decorates its interior with Christmas decorations galore. Take a break from the cold and enjoy shopping without a bulky coat holding you down. Stores range from Macy’s to Nordstrom.
Westminster Street, Providence, RI
Westminster Street is always decorated with twinkling lights no matter the season, but during the holidays they suddenly seem so much more festive. Browse through several arts and crafts stores, influenced by the nearby Rhode Island School of Design, as well as Symposium Books, one of Providence’s last independent bookstores.
Wickenden Street, Providence, RI
This area is another cute street in the state capital, lined by charming boutiques and cozy cafés. Take a break from the cold and dip into Coffee Exchange for a latte to warm you up and provide additional energy for the day of shopping ahead!
The Arcade, Providence, RI
The Arcade is an old shopping mall on Weybosset Street recently renovated into micro-lofts, with a shopping space still intact on the ground floor. Their small, illustrious boutiques are the ideal place to browse for fits for your loved ones!
Foundry Artists Holiday Show, Pawtucket, RI
Explore the best arts and crafts vendors of Pawtucket at the annual Foundry Artists Holiday Show. This festival unites a cooperative of more than 50 artists who share their ceramics, body products, jewelry and more with shoppers.
The Crossing at Smithfield, Smithfield, RI
The Crossing is a well-maintained shopping center with all that you need for your shopping demands. After Thanksgiving, you’ll find stores packed with holiday decorations and, of course, lots of impressive holiday gifts! Stores range from Target to Yankee Candle to Barnes and Nobles.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Newport, RI: Holiday charm abounds with lit-up shopping districts, galleries of local artists, and nautical-themed souvenir shops.
- Providence Place Mall: Rhode Island's largest indoor mall, beautifully decorated for the holidays, featuring stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom.
- Westminster Street: A festive street with arts and crafts stores and independent gems like Symposium Books.
- Wickenden Street: A cozy street lined with charming boutiques and cafés like Coffee Exchange for a warm shopping break.
- The Arcade: Historic shopping mall with unique small boutiques perfect for finding special gifts.
- Foundry Artists Holiday Show: An annual arts and crafts festival featuring over 50 artists offering ceramics, jewelry, and more.
- The Crossing at Smithfield: A convenient shopping center with stores like Target, Yankee Candle, and Barnes & Noble, decorated for the holidays.
