‘Tis the season to shop small! As you look for gifts for friends and loved ones this holiday season, consider taking NYC Ferry to discover the unique, small businesses around the city. From artisanal chocolate shops in Red Hook to charming bookstores in Sunset Park, there are hidden treasures near every ferry landing. These local businesses offer one-of-a-kind gifts and experiences, perfect for those looking to shop small and support the community. So hop on board, and let the ferry guide you to NYCβs best independent shops and markets this holiday season.
Kadoo
Route: East River / South Brooklyn
Landing: DUMBO
Kadoo offers thoughtfully curated gift boxes inspired by self-care, mindfulness, and connection. Based in DUMBO, they combine beautifully crafted products with a meaningful approach to gift-giving.
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Everything Goes
Route: St. George
Landing: St. George
Everything Goes is a community-driven thrift store in Staten Island that provides an eclectic mix of clothing, books, furniture, and more, all in a relaxed, welcoming space for shoppers to discover unique finds.
Book Club Bar
Route: Soundview
Landing: Stuyvesant Cove
Book Club Bar is a cozy East Village spot that combines a love for books with a well-stocked bar, creating a comfortable space where guests can enjoy a good read with a glass of wine or coffee.
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Sweet Pickles Books
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Corlears Hook
Sweet Pickles Books is a quirky Lower East Side bookstore that offers a curated selection of books alongside jars of pickles, providing a unique mix of literature and local flavor.
niconeco zakkaya
Route: Soundview
Landing: Stuyvesant Cove
niconeco zakkaya is a Japanese stationery and gift store that brings traditional Japanese craftsmanship and design to NYC, offering unique paper goods, crafts, and gifts.
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Liz’s Book Bar
Route: South Brooklyn / Rockaway
Landing: Sunset Park
Liz’s Book Bar is a charming independent bookstore and community hub where visitors can browse a variety of titles and enjoy coffee in a welcoming, relaxed setting.
Delia Langan Jewelry
Route: East River
Landing: North Williamsburg
Delia Langan Jewelry is a Brooklyn-based brand known for its handcrafted, delicate jewelry pieces inspired by nature and city life, each piece designed with a unique and thoughtful touch.
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BK Flea
Route: East River / South Brooklyn
Landing: DUMBO
BK Flea is one of NYC’s most popular flea markets, showcasing a diverse collection of vintage, antique, and artisanal items, attracting treasure hunters from all around the city.
Parachute
Route: East River
Landing: Greenpoint
Parachute is a buy-sell-trade childrenβs clothing store offers gently used contemporary and vintage clothing for ages 0-12 years.
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360 Record Shop
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Red Hook
360 Record Shop is a vinyl lover’s paradise, offering a curated selection of records spanning various genres and eras, making it a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
The Honey House at Astor Apiaries
Route: Astoria
Landing: Astoria
The Honey House at Astor Apiaries is a charming spot dedicated to all things honey and beekeeping, where visitors can learn about sustainable beekeeping and explore a range of honey products.
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The Wonder Mart
Route: East River
Landing: Greenpoint
The Wonder Mart is a boutique in Greenpoint that features locally made goods and unique gifts, celebrating NYC’s creative spirit with a wide selection of artisanal products.
Raaka Chocolate
Route: South Brooklyn
Landing: Red Hook
Raaka Chocolate specializes in unroasted, organic chocolate made with transparency and sustainability in mind, offering bold, unique flavors crafted in their Red Hook factory.
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Fado LIC
Route: Astoria
Landing: Long Island City
Fado LIC is a modern women’s boutique for those who love style but also know that comfort is key. They carry an assortment of denim, t-shirts, knitwear, dresses and footwear as well as jewelry, candles, and gifts.