If you’re in Kinston, NC shopping is not something you just insert into your trip, it’s a full-day experience with must-shop spots for everything and anything you’re looking for. Want that perfect catch of the day? There’s hundreds of rods, bait and tackle waiting for you to make your move. Have you been looking for a handmade basket to house your ever-growing blanket collection? There’s an artisan here that has made your blankets a home, and it’s waiting for you. Dive into our shopping scene and find those items of your dreams with these local shopping spots:
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THE NON-PROFIT LOVER:
Supports local and can be found volunteering on their days off, will always round up their total in the supermarket checkout line, hasn’t cleaned out their email in months because they don’t want to lose the newsletters with upcoming events at their local arts council.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
The Community Council for the Arts | Kinston, NC
The Community Council for the Arts is where imagination calls home in Kinston. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this organization has been around for more than 50 years. Within their 30,000 sq. ft. space, they provide workshops to teach you how to paint or sculpt or throw a pot. Venture into the gallery space to find unique gifts made to satisfy your love of the handmade. Pick up a new silk scarf to match your eyes. Browse through garden sculptures that will put your gnomes to shame. Try on a custom bead necklace of hand-blown glass that will be the "where did you get that" buzz around the office.
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THE ONE-STOP SHOPPER:
Makes it happen when everyone says otherwise, efficient and goal-oriented, will always plan the best road trip itinerary, the person you want to be stranded with on a deserted island.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
Leon Thomas Treasures | Kinston, NC
If you’re looking for a unique gift for your friends, family or even yourself, check out Leon Thomas Treasures. Located in Downtown Kinston, they offer everything to make any season bright from a selection of local spices to clothes and accessories to spice up your life. In addition to the one-of-a-kind selections, you will find great discounts throughout the store. As one reviewer proclaimed, "Adorable little shop with a wide variety of handmade crafts from local vendors." And don’t worry, if what you see knocks your socks off, you may be able to buy another pair at Leon Thomas Treasures.
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THE JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES:
You name it and they can probably teach you how to do it, has 10 different hobbies, has the busiest schedule but always makes time for you, they’re who you want to be when you grow up.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
Ironclad Antiques | Kinston, NC
On the outside, it’s an unassuming warehouse. On the inside, it’s a 12,000-square-foot antique and collectibles market with nearly 40 vendors who sell everything from furniture to handmade crafts and every sort of somebody’s got-to-have-it you can imagine. Enter the door and you can feel the history of a by-gone era. Retro modern side tables mingle with country sideboards. Quilts fall lazily over a perfectly padded rocker. Accent pillows abound in colors that match hand-blown glass vases and plates and paintings. If it was in Grandma’s attic, excluding Grandpa, you’ll probably find it here.
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THE AIR, LAND AND SEA FARER:
Bear Grylls has nothing on them, they spend every weekend finding new trails to hike, their first act when they turned 18 was to go skydiving, you called them to hang out but they’re already out on the road to their next destination.
WHERE THEY SHOP:
Neuse Sports Shop | Kinston, NC
If you’re someone who lives on the wild side then there’s no better place than Neuse Sports Shop. Since 1953 it has been the source for all of hunting, fishing, marine, paddle sports, fashion and outdoor sportswear needs in Eastern North Carolina. Want to live out your dreams of being a Marvel superhero? Head to the indoor pistol and archery range. Want to discover what’s just along the Neuse riverbank? Grab yourself a kayak. Not dressed for the occasion. Grab yourself some outdoor sportswear and hit the trails. Whatever you’re doing, Neuse Sports Shop will get you equipped.