7 Best Shopping in Boston, Massachusetts

Brattle Book Shop

Downtown Fodor's choice

Bibliophiles can't get enough of this old-timey book store that has been in operation since 1825 and is, literally, chockablock with books floor to ceiling and stuffed into corners. The owner Ken Gloss, who regularly tours with Antiques Roadshow, fields queries from passionate book lovers about out-of-print, rare, antique, and foreign-language tomes. If you're simply in need of a read for the ride home, browse the rolling carts in Brattle's adjacent outdoor lot, where books of all genres go for $5, $3, or just $1.

Skylight Jewelers

Downtown Fodor's choice

This independently owned jewelry store features custom creations, from gorgeous engagement rings to signature carved moonstone jewelry. Men's jewelry is a specialty.

Appelboom

Downtown

Dutch luxury pen specialist Appelboom has opened its second brick and mortar location in what used to be Bromfield Pen Shop. You can find all major fountain pen brands, rollerballs, and ballpoints, as well as all types of accessories, from inks to paper goods.

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DSW

Downtown

Major discounts on high-quality (and big-name) shoes for men and women draw savvy Boston shoppers to this branch of the chain DSW, also known as Designer Shoe Warehouse. Everything from Nike to Prada can be found at varying discounts—sometimes up to 90% off.

Jewelers Exchange Building

Downtown

Back in the mid-20th century when Downtown Crossing was truly a shopping mecca, this building drew crowds for its selection of precious gems and metals. Today, this building still bustles with its array of more than 75 independent jewelry artisans, who sell luxury watches, engagement rings, engraved silver, and much more.

Macy's

Downtown

This popular New York department store holds one of Downtown Crossing's flagship locations, formerly the home of Jordan Marsh. Shop clothes, skin care products, kitchen gadgets, and home furnishings in this historic building.

Primark

Downtown

Did you pack wrong for Boston's unpredictable weather? This multi-floor fast-fashion hot spot is just the place to supplement your wardrobe without putting a dent in your spending money. Clothing (for men, women, and kids), cosmetics, luggage, home goods, shoes, and more are available.