Independent Shops and Historic Stores Near King Street

Shopping in downtown Boone is less about large retail centers and more about discovering independent businesses inside historic buildings.

Along King Street and Depot Street, visitors can find ethically made gifts, original art, outdoor equipment, Appalachian goods, vintage-style candy, clothing, home décor, and collections from local makers.

These four stops offer an easy introduction to shopping locally in Boone.

Where Can You Buy Local Art and Gifts in Boone?

Common Good Co.

685 West King Street, Boone, NC

Common Good Co. occupies a historic, multi-story building in downtown Boone.

The first floor features thoughtfully selected products made by local and regional artists, craftspeople, and independent brands. An espresso bar at the back of the store serves specialty coffee during the morning.

Upstairs, visitors will find a fine-art gallery displaying paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other original works against historic stucco walls and 1920s hardwood floors.

Best for:

• Locally made gifts
• Original art
• Ethical and independently produced goods
• Coffee while shopping
• Visitors who want something distinctly Appalachian

Where Can You Buy Outdoor Gear in Boone?

Footsloggers

139 South Depot Street, Boone, NC

Footsloggers has served the North Carolina High Country since 1971.

The locally rooted outdoor outfitter carries hiking footwear, technical clothing, travel equipment, casual apparel, and gear for exploring Boone’s trails, rivers, ski areas, and surrounding mountains.

Its downtown Boone store remains a convenient stop for visitors who forgot a rain jacket, need better hiking shoes, or want knowledgeable guidance before heading outdoors. The Boone Area Chamber identifies the business as an outdoor and travel outfitter at its South Depot Street location.

Best for:

• Hiking and travel equipment
• Outdoor footwear
• Technical clothing
• Local advice before a High Country adventure

What Is the Most Iconic Store in Downtown Boone?

Mast General Store

630 West King Street, Boone, NC

Mast General Store combines the character of an old-fashioned mercantile with clothing, outdoor gear, home goods, toys, food, and its well-known Candy Barrel.

The downtown Boone location occupies two early-20th-century buildings and includes historic details such as wooden floors and a distinctive Y-shaped staircase.

Visitors can browse:

• Outdoor clothing and footwear
• Appalachian gifts
• Kitchen and home goods
• Old-fashioned candy
• Toys and books
• Boone souvenirs

The store is one of downtown Boone’s most recognizable landmarks and an easy stop for visitors of nearly every age.

Where Can You Browse Many Small Shops in One Place?

Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware

661 West King Street, Boone, NC

Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware brings a large collection of small vendors together inside a century-old downtown landmark.

Original tin ceilings and worn wooden floors create a setting that feels more like exploring an old Boone building than visiting a conventional retail store.

The variety makes it particularly useful for groups whose members have different interests. Shoppers can browse gifts, antiques, collectibles, home décor, crafts, and other unexpected finds without leaving the building.

Best for:

• Browsing without a strict shopping list
• Gifts and collectibles
• Rainy afternoons
• Visitors who enjoy historic buildings
• Groups with varied interests

Can You Walk to These Stores from The Horton Hotel?

Yes. These stores are located in or near downtown Boone and can be incorporated into a walk from The Horton Hotel.

A simple shopping route can include King Street, Depot Street, Howard Street, the Jones House Cultural Center, and a coffee or lunch stop along the way.

Staying downtown allows visitors to shop at a slower pace. Purchases can be dropped back at the hotel before continuing to dinner or heading upstairs to The Horton’s rooftop lounge.

FAQ

What are the best local stores in downtown Boone?

Popular local shopping destinations include Common Good Co., Footsloggers, Mast General Store, and Shoppes at Farmer’s Hardware.

Where can you buy local art in Boone?

Common Good Co. features work and products from local and regional makers, with a fine-art gallery located upstairs.

Where can you buy hiking gear in downtown Boone?

Footsloggers on South Depot Street specializes in outdoor clothing, footwear, travel equipment, and hiking gear.

Is Mast General Store in downtown Boone?

Yes. The Boone location is at 630 West King Street in the center of downtown.

Is downtown Boone shopping walkable?

Yes. Many of Boone’s shops, restaurants, coffee houses, and cultural destinations are concentrated around King Street and nearby downtown blocks.

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