Murphys, CA…There’s a reason Frommer’s called Murphys one of the top ten small towns in America. Murphys is a town made for shopping, with its pedestrian filled streets and gastronomical boutiques. Whether you’re looking for gifts for kids, four-legged friends, bikers, vintage and antique collectors, or something for those special women, men and children in your life – Murphys has something for everyone.

Visit the independent local bookstore, Sustenance Books, for great reads for all ages as well as crafts and gifts. Find flavors from around the world at The Spice Tin, taste unique olive oils and balsamic vinegars at Marisolio Tasting Bar, and satisfy your sweet tooth at Nelson’s Candy Kitchen and Lila and Sage Cupcakes. Kitchen stocking stuffers abound at Creative Cookware, and of course, Main Street is lined with wine tasting rooms and restaurants to help diversify the browsing experience.

Discover local artisan and hand made treasures, first with a trip to Moon Alley Candles, which are made in Murphys and are renowned for their unique colors and elegant designs. Independent Mercantile sells an earthy blend of handmade body care products, as well as clothing and jewelry by owner Linda Trent. Independent’s sister shop, nd&x, offers more in the way of kitchen and interior decor, but with the same elemental and thoughtful level of craftsmanship. Sac-a-Main is a treasure-trove of leather and vegan handbags, wallets and accessories. For the kid in everyone, stop by the Murphys Village Toy Store.

With more than 23 wine tasting rooms in historic downtown, you will find that each offers its own unique retail experience. Twisted Oak specializes in humor (wine and non-wine related) and their trademark rubber chickens, while Locke is stocked with antiques and La Folia with fedoras and other hats. Ironstone Vineyards, just outside of downtown is a destination in itself. The jewelry store with collections featuring bullet casings and gold-bearing quartz (a shout out to their spectacular 44lb gold nugget on display there) are unique offerings unlikely to be found elsewhere. So, even if you’re not a wine aficionado, it’s worth checking out their gift shops. Three miles east of town is one of Murphys’ longest established businesses, Quyle Kilns, with a deep selection of pottery and ceramic art made on site with local clay.

As the culinary center of Calaveras, it’s easy to find good eats here (or great wine for that matter) when you’re ready to take a load off your feet. But don’t forget award-winning coffee from Gold Country Roasters, and delicious baked goods from Aria Bakery.