Shop Around the Docks

In lieu of playing “chicken” in an overcrowded mall parking lot and wishing coal in the stockings of grumpy shoppers,  look to local shops where you can find everything from name-brand favorites to handcrafted wares by local artisans. If you haven’t been already, the shops at Bannister Wharf are totally decked out for the holidays and the nearby Bowen’s Wharf Christmas tree glows as soon as the sun falls into the sea. Start with a hot chocolate or hot cider from the Coffee Grinder and peruse the galleries including coastal and marine art by Anthony Gil at Art on the Wharf; world renowned photography by Onne van der  Wal; or jewelry and fine art by Didi Suydam. Find clothing from casual to classic including sweatshirts from The Black Dog and Newport Breeze; contemporary pieces from Ralph Lauren, Paul & Shark  and more at The Narragansett; foul weather gear from Murphy & Nye; hip classics  from tyler böe; European finery from Barbour waterproofs to Le Chameau boots at Royal Warrant and haute style from the isle of St. Barth’s at Mandarine Boutique. Find uniquely Newport treasures the Newport Mansions Store for local friends or those who still yearn for the City-by-the-Sea. And finally, polish off your secret Santa’s look with a leather handbag or accessories from Brahmin and chic shades from Tradewinds Sunglass Company.

Swathed with greens greens, crisp red bows and sparkling lights, the shops at Bannister Wharf is the stress-free way to shop this holiday season. Remember, meters are free this time of year and free parking all week long in wharf parking lot December through May.

Snowy Bannister’s Wharf photo by Joseph Ruggeri.