Thanksgiving has come and gone, so the holiday season is already underway! For many of us, that also means it is holiday shopping season. Why not consider supporting local shops here in Downtown Madison by purchasing the unique gifts they have to offer? Here is a list of a few of our favorite downtown neighboring shops:
This popular, woman-owned store has called State Street home since 1972. Soap Opera sells a wide variety of bathing products, grooming supplies, gifts, and more. You can even make your own custom fragrance. The Soap Opera offers a wide selection of fragrance oils in house so you can create a fragrance spray that is unique to someone that you are gift-wrapping presents for this holiday season.
One of State Street’s most well-known, and unique shops with a long-lasting legacy, Art Gecko is a whimsical and colorful shop selling everything from precious stones and jewelry to handmade art, housewares, and a splash of color for your wardrobe.
This eclectic little shop has been a part of State Street for over 30 years selling a mix of trendy accessories, elegant jewelry, playful children's toys, thought provoking books, family games, and pampering self-care gifts for all ages.
Want to shop sustainably for secondhand clothing with character? Stop by Ragstock, a downtown Madison staple that isn’t just for the college students. The selection at Ragstock ranges from sensible, everyday wearables to unique sweaters and costumes. You never know what you might fill a closet or stocking with at this popular store.
Anthology is a Stationery, gift, and craft shop featuring works by local and indie artists. Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift for the crafter in your life or otherwise, you can find something for everyone at this adorable State Street shop.
Newer to the central downtown neighborhood and just a short walk from the Concourse on East Johnson Street (via Carroll Street or Wisconsin Avenue), Zodica Perfumery is a small-batch and artisanal line of celestial-inspired fine fragrances of exceptional scents using ethically sourced ingredients, minimize our environmental impact, and empower self-expression. Each perfume reflects the emotion and season of its sign.
Founded in 2007, Fromagination has been selling local, artisanal cheeses to celebrate Wisconsin’s heritage of being America’s Dairyland. In addition to cheeses, Fromagination sells preserves, chocolates, and charcuterie–all from Wisconsin producers and artisans of course!
For the creative soul or art student in your life, Artist and Craftsman Supply has everything an artist needs and all the best brands. Why not leave some supplies under the tree for making new art in 2025?
Wisconsin is known for its great outdoors, and if you are looking for outdoor gear for the adventurer you know, Fontana has you covered.
Perhaps you’re looking for a sweet treat as a stocking stuffer? Kilwin’s sells a wide-variety of chocolate for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Madison Modern Market is a locally owned, independent boutique located on State Street in Madison, Wisconsin's downtown. The shop specializes in curating a selection of unique, functional, and design-focused gifts and goods for home, office, garden, travel, and entertaining in addition to accessories for men, women, and children.
There’s more where this list came from, and the best way to explore these local gems and more is by paying a visit to downtown Madison this December. Holiday shopping aside, there’s something magical about the heart of this city covered in sparkling lights during this festive time of year.