We loved Thoreauly Antiques (25 Walden Street, 978-371-0100, no website), a "fun and affordable antique shop" with beautiful collectibles, jewelry, prints, and unique decor items. Steps away we poked around in The Toy Shop of Concord and found some great stocking stuffers for the kids. I'm particularly fond of their fully-stocked arts and crafts and doll sections. Around the corner is The Dotted I with lovely note cards, stationery, and invites (I picked up a great hostess gift there). And my favorite, favorite book shop just down the block is The Concord Bookshop. This independent bookstore (open since 1940) is so inviting and is obviously run by major book lovers. It showcases local writers and has a great kids reading area in the back.

And finally, you can't leave Concord Center without a stop in The Concord Cheese Shop. This gourmet wine and cheese shop is a little slice of food heaven. In fact, it was so crowded with shoppers our visit there was short. That's always a good sign.

Also, if you're an antique fan, there's an upcoming event that's a perfect excuse to head to Concord for holiday shopping -- the Antiques & Vintage Holiday Gift Show -- December 12-13 at the Concord Armory.”

Image credit: The Concord Bookshop