Best Destination for Shopaholics (2015)

Perhaps one of the most unique cities in the US, the Native American culture found in Santa Fe is alive and well on every corner. It’s also well represented in the stores that are filled with perfectly polished turquoise, custom leather accessories and sterling silver jewelry. Famous names head to Back at the Ranch for custom cowboy boots while art collectors invest in the latest creations from artists like Poteet Victory, who is one of many talents creating and selling valued art in the same location. For a wildly interesting shopping experience, join designers like Ralph Lauren, who never missing shopping the annual Folk Art Market.
Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer

It may be warm weather year-round here, but there’s no shortage of furriers in the market. In fact, every imaginable luxury good is on display in this retreat for the East Coast elite. With extravagant homes being the calling cards for high profile residents, expect to find equally lavish home goods dealers selling expensive and rare items for collectors and discriminating buyers alike. It’s also home to all things bright and punchy, so there’s no shortage of Lily Pulitzer authentic (and inspired) clothing at almost every turn, with some amazing vintage resort-ware a top score for shoppers.
Photo courtesy of Discover The Palm Beaches

If shopping by the sea gets any better, those in Carmel don’t see how. Here, along cobblestone streets and paths, quaint stores selling local wares are set up in a picturesque village setting that feels more like a step back in time than a stroll down a retail row. Art galleries are a top draw, and it’s also a good spot for unique gifts and children’s toys. Just a stone’s throw away are the gift shops for the famed Pebble Beach courses and resorts, where golfers and tennis enthusiasts can stock up on everything to up their game.
Photo courtesy of CarmelCalifornia.com

If crashing waves and gorgeous homes weren’t enough reason to spend a day in Malibu, today shoppers seeking all things ‘beach chic’ are now driving down 101 to check out selections in newly opened specialty stores. The central shopping hub is Malibu Country Mart, where high end and familiar retail haunts mix well with locally owned stores. But, it’s the West End’s newly opened center that has local’s buzzing. Stores like the home décor treasure trove of Malibu Beach House and specialty grocer Vintage Foods are just the start of what’s opening at this newly developing Trancas Country Market in Western Malibu. On your way back up the coast, don’t forget to make a stop at Malibu Beach Inn and the Pier for superior gifts including coffee table books and photographs from local artists.
Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer

Nashville is most recognized for it’s music scene, but trailblazers and trendsetters also know it’s a top place to find goods to create your own rock star image no matter where you live. It’s a city filled with custom creators, with several having their own retail shops. Denim makers like Imogene + Willie or Peter Nappi leather goods have showrooms that often double as live music venues. Custom guitars and instruments and vintage guitars are found in unassuming haunts like Corner Music in the eclectic 12South district, as well as dozens of other spots in Music City.
Photo courtesy of Stacie Standifer

From the world famous stretch of top stores spanning from Columbus Circle down 5^th Avenue to the funky thrift stores peppered throughout Soho, New York City is a shopper’s paradise. It is a constantly evolving mecca layered with every possible type of retail find. Discriminating shoppers seeking premium goods from recognized designer lines displayed in gorgeous settings head straight to Madison Avenue’s Upper East Side selection of boutiques while those wanting hand crafted kitchen, table top and foodie essentials are now making the trek into Brooklyn for the array of artesian wares offered throughout the eclectic neighborhoods in this district.  Young professionals with modern tastes ranging from rustic to modern are filling the growing number of specialty stores in the Meatpacking District as well as collective haunts of local sellers housed in Chelsea Market, which is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Photo courtesy of NYC & Company/Julienne Schaer

If it can’t be found on The Magnificent Mile, it probably doesn’t exist. The long stretch of every imaginable type of shop is a shopper’s dream come true, and one that can take several days to explore to see it all. Chicago is a lure for all ages and every taste range. For alternative boutique and specialty shopping, head to the charming Armitage & Halstead corridor. Along with the rest of Lincoln Park, this mix of shops feels more like a local experience and is where you will find some of the city’s most inventive retailers.
Photo courtesy of City of Chicago

Philadelphia has an emerging shopping scene that attracts both bargain seekers and specialty good buyers. In addition to sprawling outposts of outlets stores like Nordstrom Rack, visitors can also expect to browse a wide selection of locally made items and curated vintage merchandise at The Reading Terminal Market, which is a must-stop for anyone on a shopping adventure in Philly. Foodies also love a day of adventure at the Italian Market, while bauble seekers can get lost for hours in the shops on Jeweler’s Row.
Photo courtesy of R. Kennedy for Visit Philadelphia

Scottsdale really is an oasis in the Arizona dessert and where discriminating tastes come from Phoenix to outfit themselves and their homes. Jewelry and formal attire are in high demand here, and there’s no shortage of stores to entice shopping travelers. New developments such as Keirland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter along with the expansion of Arizona’s biggest mall, Fashion Square give even frugal shoppers endless options. A continuous stream of sales on every possible item makes this shopping headquarters for essentials. For more unique finds, head to Fifth Avenue Shops or the collection of 38 vendors set up daily in Scottsdale Marketplace. From mid century furniture to antique light fixtures, storied pieces are commonplace here. Scottsdale’s downtown and historic districts are also destinations for art collectors with a good number of respected galleries ranging from classic to contemporary.
Photo courtesy of Scottsdale Conventio n & Visitors Bureau

This Southern city seems a bit more urban than any other thanks to the variety of its retail landscape. In the last two years, the scene has dramatically shifted from a mega-mall destination to one with open-air centers created for a sensational shopping experience. The most anticipated was the opening of Buckhead, which is undoubtedly the most stylish setting to date. Fashion for men, women and children is prominent but interesting anchors such as a multi floor Restoration Hardware have also drawn a slew of specialty home décor retailers hoping to capture the attention of those shopping for luxury furnishings and accessories. You can also pop out to Avalon in Alpharetta for a true local shopping experience. Find thousands of the latest and greatest items for all things beauty creatively arranged at The Cosmetic Market’s sprawling store or check out the latest offerings from trendy boutiques such as Madewell and Noteworthy Paper.
Photo courtesy of 2014, James Duckworth, Courtesy of ACVB & AtlantaPhotos.com