When I first launched ‘Coffee & Chiffon‘ all the way back in January of 2020 (can you believe it’ll be five years in just a few months!?) one my goals was to highlight and showcase some of my favorite businesses, oddities, and off-the-beaten-path spots in and around New England – and beyond! – that were worth pit stops, road trips, or extended stays. I love to travel and sightsee, and my “Local Loves” installments were created for that very reason and for the people/audience that felt the same way that I do.

And with nearly 100 locations (!!!) archived over the years so far, I’m aware that a lot can change following a global pandemic, inflation, natural disasters, etc., so I thought now would be as good a time as any to give quick updates on each location I’ve shared from 2020 through now for anyone who may be visiting the area and looking for things to do, curious about some bizarre Northeastern history, or maybe just wanting to take a walk down memory lane. I know I do it sometimes!

I’ll include links to the original posts in the timeline below for anyone who may want to do some additional reading or check out some of the photos I’ve snapped of these spots along the way!

– 2020 –

January 2020 – The Garden (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This little movie theater on Main Street in Greenfield (and just a short walk from my apartment!) is still showing new releases, classic movies, and hosting special events and festivals year-round!

February 2020 – Medfield State Hospital (Medfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

The grounds of this historic, former state hospital are still open to the public during the day, and now includes an event space for concerts/shows throughout the year.

March 2020 – Wayside Furniture (Gardner, MA) – ** STILL STANDING! **

Shortly after COVID-19 related lockdowns began, my “Local Loves” series focused predominantly on some of the more bizarre and creepy parts of New England’s history since businesses and restaurants had been shut down indefinitely. This abandoned furniture store, complete with a gigantic yellow chair out front – is still standing right off of Route 2!

March 2020 – Nichewaug Inn (Petersham, MA) – ** DEMOLISHED **

This former resort-turned-school-turned-abandoned-property in the heart of Petersham, Massachusetts was recently demolished. The area has since been cleaned up, but nothing has been built in it’s absence yet.

April 2020 – Giovanni’s Ristorante (Florida, MA) – ** DEMOLISHED **

Another roadside motel and restaurant from a bygone era was recently torn down, with the land left behind currently being used for storage units for occupants in the Berkshires areas.

April 2020 – Northfield Drive-In (Northfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Not only is this drive-in within a reasonable driving distance from me and celebrating their 76th anniversary this Summer, but they’re also showing back-to-back screenings of ‘Twisters’ and ‘Alien: Romulus’ this month! It’s the BEST.

May 2020 – Madam Sheri’s Castle (West Chesterfield, NH) – ** STILL STANDING! **

The sprawling remnants of what had formerly been an eccentric and extravagant costume designer’s home are still standing and just as spooky as ever in the middle of the forest in New Hampshire. I’m so looking forward to doing some Halloween photos there soon!

May 2020 – Spooner Well (Brookfield, MA) – ** STILL STANDING! **

We love a grizzly story here in New England, and the monument commemorating one of the worst still stands on the roadside off of a small, rural street in Brookfield, Massachusetts.

May 2020 – Hoosac Tunnel (North Adams, MA) – ** STILL STANDING! **

If you’re not deathly afraid of the dark (or trains), then this still-haunting spot in North Adams is worth passing by the next time you’re in the area. The railway is still active, so just be careful if you plan on snapping photos!

June 2020 – The Clam Box (Brookfield, MA) – ** RELOCATING! **

I got a lot of mixed feedback on this Summer of 2020 post where I wrote about a seafood spot my friends and I used to love going to in high school and during our Summer vacations, but I still enjoy their food very much! The restaurant recently announced that they were moving their location just a short distance down the street for a more spacious dining experience, but they’re still open and operational at the original/current spot at the time I’m writing this!

June 2020 – Bowman Mausoleum (Shrewsbury, VT) – ** STILL STANDING! **

This beautiful but absolutely heartbreaking crypt is still standing along the roadside in Shrewsbury, Vermont – although the statue of John Bowman is covered up in the colder months to protect it from ice/snow damage. It’s been a while since I’ve last paid my respects, but I’d like to go back soon.

July 2020 – The Ice Cream Lady (Douglas, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This sexy, sexy ice cream cone is never going away if I have anything to do with it. Not just because their larger-than-life statue is insane, but also because they have really good, affordable soft serve and “Pup Cups” that Oliver always looks forward to!

July 2020 – Cinnamon Rainbows (North Hampton, NH) – ** RELOCATED! **

One of my favorite surf shops along the coast relocated to a new address in 2022 following a devastating fire, but their new spot is just as charming and fun as the old one! I buy so many of my Summertime clothes and sandals there!

July 2020 – Kooks Cafe & Beach Bar (Rye, NH) – ** STILL OPEN! **

It’s hard to believe I’ve been writing about Kooks since 2020, but it remains my go-to Summer spot for great drinks, amazing food, and the best beachy atmosphere in all of New England. They are still open and going strong – and I am still there all the time!

August 2020 – Hot Dog Annie’s (Leicester, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Another roadside spot to eat that is still going strong after so many years. This place has survived pretty much everything and anything – and for good reason! Their hot dogs rule!

September 2020 – Brookfield Orchards (Brookfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

You best believe this is one of my first stops come September and the beginning of Fall so I can load up on all things apple. This orchard has been a longtime favorite of mine and my family, and my family before me – and will continue on for years to come, I think!

September 2020 – Red Apple Farm (Phillipston, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Another Fall/Autumn favorite of mine is still open year-round, now with a brewery and wood-fired pizza on-site- and I’m looking forward to stocking up on pumpkins when the time is right. Their selection is always so impressive!

October 2020 – Haunted Overload (Lee, NH) – ** STILL OPEN! **

It’s been a while since I visited one of my favorite haunted trails (that is beautiful and eerie during the day and absolutely terrifying after dark!) but I’m so glad they’re still open and scaring visitors year after year. I can’t wait to go back so I can run, scream, and then drink hot cider at their farmstand to calm my nerves!

October 2020 – The Neon Boneyard (Las Vegas, NV) – ** STILL OPEN! **

When it became somewhat safe to travel again near the end of 2020, I had headed back to Las Vegas for my best friend Kelsey’s memorial service following her passing in February of that year. While there, I stopped to take a tour of The Neon Museum/Boneyard and immediately fell in love. I’m excited to share it with Troy when we head back to Vegas at the end of the month!

November 2020 – Florence Pie Bar (Florence, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This cute little bakery/café is still churning out incredible breakfast pastries and pies day after day, year after year, and their salted chocolate pie is something that is pretty much mandatory for me to bring to Thanksgiving ever since I started back in 2019!

December 2020 – Samuel’s Sweet Shop (Rhinebeck, NY) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This adorable candy shop, nestled in the picturesque town of Rhinebeck, New York and co-owned by none other than Paul Rudd, was a must-visit stop while I was buying presents for a socially distanced Christmas that year. Since then, I’ve gone back a couple more times – most recently this past Spring for a weekend away with Troy!

– 2021 –

January 2021 – The White Horse Tavern (Newport, RI) – ** STILL OPEN! **

It’s been way too long since I’ve stopped by this historic and gorgeous restaurant, but I’m not kidding at all when I say I think about their Beef Wellington all the time. I can’t wait until I have the time and opportunity to go back for seconds!

January 2021 – Magpie (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

It’s also been a minute since I’ve stopped by Magpie for one of their wood-fired pizzas, which is crazy since they’re right around the corner! Maybe this weekend I’ll indulge a little bit!

February 2021 – Champney’s Restaurant & Tavern (Deerfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This fantastic restaurant, located within the historic Deerfield Inn, is still my go-to after a day of shopping at Yankee Candle with my mom and cousin during our annual outings. We love their staff, their chicken pot pie, and their cocktail menu – all of which is perfect for enjoying fireside during the Fall and Winter!

February 2021 – ENJOY. (Shelburne Falls, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This little boutique, located right across from the Bridge of Flowers, is still going strong with adorable accessories, shoes, and clothing options. Some of my favorite wardrobe staples are from there!

March 2021 – Magic Wings (Deerfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I’m so happy this butterfly conservatory is still open and doing well, because if you’re not squeamish about butterflies landing on you – it’s a really fun way to spend an afternoon. It’s beloved by locals of all ages, and I’ve snapped some really cool pictures there.

March 2021 – Three Sisters Sanctuary (Goshen, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

One of the more bizarre “Local Loves” I’ve shared over the years, this outdoor art/sculpture trail continues to grow more and more each year with new installments and pieces. I recently drove by it on my way home, and the gigantic Tin Man is still guarding it from out front!

April 2021 – Hope & Olive (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

No one loves a good brunch like I do, especially if it’s within walking distance. Hope & Olive persevered through the pandemic, got a new paint job and a new sign while they were at it – and continue to serve good cocktails and delicious entrees.

May 2021 – The Montague Book Mill (Montague, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This gorgeous little book shop, gallery and restaurant are still cherished and thriving – and I always try to bring visitors here to see if with their own eyes if they’re new to the area or are unfamiliar with it’s history!

May 2021 – Peppermill (Las Vegas, NV) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This time capsule of an eatery had been a longtime favorite of mine and Kelsey for far back as I can remember, and it holds a special place in my heart since she had been the one to bring me there for the very first time so many years ago. Since then, I always make a point to stop by whenever I’m in Vegas to have some food or a cocktail in her honor.

June 2021 – Roseland Cottage (Woodstock, CT) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This bright pink, gothic-style home is still open daily for tours and hosts a variety of seasonal events on their sprawling lawn as part of their partnership with Historic New England (an incredible preservation society whose work I deeply admire!) Be sure to check out their annual fine arts & crafts fair this Fall!

June 2021 – Del’s Lemonade (Rhode Island – Multiple Locations) – ** STILL OPEN! **

There’s nothing like a Del’s frozen lemonade and one of their gigantic pretzels on a hot Summer day, and I’m happy to report that many of their multiple locations around the state of Rhode Island are still going strong and serving up the goods this time of year! I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve crossed state lines just to enjoy them!

July 2021 – Deja Vu (Hampton, NH) – ** STILL OPEN! **

While one may think that I’ve outgrown the target audience of Deja Vu, sometimes I still find the cutest pieces to wear to the office, or on a date night, or a weekend away with friends. I always love browsing their store and the racks when I come by for the annual Seafood Festival!

July 2021 – Drawbridge Ice Cream (Mystic, CT) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Mystic is one of my favorite coastal communities to visit this time of year, and there’s no better way to enjoy a delicious scoop of mint chocolate chip than with a view of the Mystic River and downtown area. It’s picture perfect!

August 2021 – Captain Jack’s Roadside Shack (Easthampton, MA) – ** RELOCATED! **

Beyond happy to report that one of the best lobster rolls I’ve ever had in my life is still available and within a short driving distance after moving from their temporary location within a food truck and back into their original, actual shack location just down the street again. It’s good to have them back!

August 2021 – The People’s Pint (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

When people ask me where the best nachos in the Pioneer Valley are, I direct them to this bar/eatery right down the street from my place. While I’m not a big beer drinker by any means, I do love their cider options – but their food is what keeps me coming back over and over again!

September 2021 – El Cosmico (Marfa, TX) – ** RELOCATING! **

I still dream about my week-long adventure to Marfa, Texas in the Summer of 2021 – and the days/nights I spent in a bright pink camper named “Amigo” at El Cosmico’s campground. While the site is still open for visitors, there’s tentative plans for the campground to move locations and expand in the near future.

September 2021 – The Big E (Springfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Of course this annual fair is still going strong! It’s only one of the biggest events here in New England! And despite the carnival rides and games being a little rickety for my taste, I’m looking forward to stopping by this year with my girlfriends for some deep-fried Oreos and oddities!

October 2021 – Hebert’s Candy Mansion (Shrewsbury, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I have so many fond memories of Hebert’s as a kid, and I’m really, truly and genuinely happy that their doors are still open and that they are still producing some of the best chocolate bars you can find here on the East Coast.

November 2021 – House of Seven Gables (Salem, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I love a good museum and guided tour, and this famous house in my beloved Salem continues to offer visitors a unique experience as they walk you room-to-room. This is just one of many cool spots in “Witch City” and I’m looking forward to sharing more in the future!

November 2021 – The Fix (Worcester & Marlborough, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I recently saw a meme about expensive burgers and how the places where they’re served all look the same, and hear me out – the meme KIND OF reminded me of The Fix – but their “Phenomenal Burger” remains one of my favorite, top tier burgers of all-time so I can’t even be offended on their behalf. This place is still so, so good – and a place I bring friends/family often when they’re visiting my hometown!

December 2021 – Wright’s Chicken Farm (Burrillville, RI) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Wright’s is another longtime and much-beloved New England establishment that I don’t think will ever go away since it is practically engrained in our DNA. I haven’t been back since my post was published, but I know I’ll find my way there again someday soon! It’s fate!

– 2022 –

January 2022 – The 1761 Old Mill (Westminster, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This gorgeous and historical restaurant and event space has been a longtime favorite for my friends and I for dinners, gatherings and celebrations – and I still go often since their menu changes seasonally!

February 2022 – Poet’s Seat (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL STANDING! **

This stone tower that overlooks my sleepy little town is still open to the public and cleaned up regularly, which means it’s still a great place for a hike and some peace and quiet depending on what time of the day you stop by!

February 2022 – PLUM (Greenfield, MA) – ** RELOCATED! **

This adorable boutique and gift shop, which used to be just a short walk away from my apartment on Main Street in Greenfield, recently relocated to a bigger space in downtown Northampton. They still carry a wide variety of cute clothes, accessories, home décor, etc., so I don’t mind the extra drive to shop!

March 2022 – Mesa Verde (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This popular local Mexican spot is still serving great burritos and margaritas daily within the brightly colorful confines of their space and seating areas. It’s been a while since I’ve been, but I’ve got a gift certificate that is just waiting to be used!

March 2022 – Davenport Maple Farm (Shelburne Falls) – ** STILL OPEN – SEASONAL! **

Maple season is one of the best parts of living in the Pioneer Valley, and when the sugar shacks open for the season – everyone finds the time to stop by for pancakes and syrup. This farm, my favorite of them all so far, is still open for a few weeks out of the year to serve the most amazing breakfast imaginable!

April 2022 – The Rusty Relic (Woodstock, CT) – ** STILL OPEN! **

One of my favorite antique and gift shops in Connecticut is still curating some of the coolest trinkets and treasures month after month. Whenever I find myself driving through Woodstock, I make it a point to stop by – and have even converted my mom into a fan of the shop, too!

May 2022 – Bridge of Flowers (Shelburne Falls, MA) – ** TEMPORARILY CLOSED FOR REPAIRS! **

This historic foot bridge, a must-visit for anyone and everyone traveling through the Shelburne Falls area, is presently undergoing renovations to preserve it’s structural integrity and is anticipated to reopen for the 2025 Spring/Summer season. Fear not! It’s not going anywhere!

June 2022 – Little Heaven (Hadley, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This lovely little Summertime spot off of Route 9 is still open and still serving up fantastic ice cream, smoothies and Boba Tea! I try to stop by when I’m in the Hadley area, and have never been disappointed with my order or the friendly service.

July 2022 – Captain T’s (Barre, MA) – ** CLOSED! **

As much as I loved this little seafood spot that delivered great clam strips and coleslaw and was in a great location by the town common in Barre, it unfortunately closed permanently at the beginning of this month. As of now, there’s no known plans for them to reopen in a new location.

July 2022 – Dogtown Coffee (Santa Monica, CA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

On the occasions that I find myself near Santa Monica during any West Coast excursions, this popular surf-shop-turned-cafe is one of my favorite spots to grab a delicious breakfast and a really, really good coffee to get my day at the beach started. I’m so excited to head back to the area soon!

August 2022 – Galaxy (Easthampton, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Perhaps one of my favorite restaurants in all of the Valley for it’s fantastic menu and 1970s, Sci-Fi-inspired décor and theme, Galaxy is still one of our mandatory spots to sit down in whenever Troy is back in the area or whenever I just need an order of deviled eggs and a fruity drink.

September 2022 – Saw Dust Coffee House (Sturbridge, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I don’t know how to explain it, but this coffee house is one of my favorites to visit in the Fall. They make one of the most delicious and flavorful pumpkin spice lattes I’ve ever had, along with an extensive variety of breakfast sandwiches and pastries. With September approaching – I know I’m going to be visiting a LOT.

September 2022 – Sunny Mountain Farm (Huntington, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Every time I pass this roadside farmstand to/from my way to places like Lee, Lenox or Stockbridge, I always catch myself going “aww!” out loud and pulling over to do some shopping. This little shop is one of the cutest finds I’ve come across over the years, and their handmade products and gifts are beautifully made and assembled with love.

October 2022 – Old Sturbridge Village (Sturbridge, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

The day OSV closes is the day that pigs fly. This longtime favorite field trip destination from my childhood has since expanded to host seasonal events, weddings, reunions, and so on – all while preserving it’s historical importance and making learning about the Colonial experience immersive and fun. I hope it stays open forever!

November 2022 – Carr’s Cider House (Hadley, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I love a good hard cider, and Carr’s wide selection always gives me something delicious to choose from – be it for myself or when I’m picking up a bottle for friends/family or for a special event. Their little roadside stand, just a short walk away from the CUTEST miniature goats ever, is a must-visit in the Fall!

November 2022 – The Christmas Barn (Woodstock, CT.) – ** STILL OPEN – SEASONAL! **

There are truly so many great places in Woodstock, Connecticut – and this seasonal Christmas shop is right at the top of the list because they have such a huge assortment of ornaments, stockings, decorations, lights and gifts – all tucked into a cozy and newly renovated barn.

Side Note: they sometimes sell some really cute Halloween stuff, too!

December 2022 – Richardson’s Candy Kitchen (Deerfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

When it comes time to grab holiday gifts and, specifically, sweets – my family always sends their requests my way so I can grab what they need and want at Richardson’s, which is only a short drive away from where I live. Admittedly, I stop in here year-round to stock up on their chocolate-covered nut clusters for myself, though. Those are my go-to snack when I’m feeling sick or sore!

– 2023 –

January 2023 – Twice Upon a Time (Brattleboro, VT) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Troy had introduced me to this huge, multi-floor antique shop in the heart of downtown Brattleboro at the beginning of 2023, and I’ve loved it ever since – often stopping by whenever I’m in the area to see what’s new or pick up some oddities for my apartment or for friends/loved ones. As for me? I’m obsessed whenever they get a new stained glass lamp. I want to collect them all!

January 2023 – 25 Central (Northampton, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I love a good quirky accessory or funky clothing piece to spruce up my wardrobe from time to time, and I know I can always find something fun and fashionable whenever I visit 25 Central. I still stop by regularly when I’m in the area since they always have something new for me to try on!

February 2023 – Smithsonian Chowder House (Hatfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

While we haven’t quite reached soup and chowder season just yet, one of my favorite locations when the Fall and Winter roll around is still open for business and still serving up some of the best dishes (and popovers!) all the time. I’m actually thinking of stopping by this coming weekend for some lobster bisque before the Summer winds down!

February 2023 – Wild Roots Eatery (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

On the days when I just don’t have it in me to cook breakfast or lunch, but I still want to stay on track health-wise, I’m so grateful that Wild Roots is right around the corner and thriving. Their menu is one of my favorites in all of Greenfield, and their service is always exceptional.

March 2023 – Botanical Garden at Smith College (Northampton, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I’ve been very vocal with my complicated feelings about Smith College in the past, and I stand by everything I’ve ever said regarding their questionable teaching methods and the actions of some of their past alumni, but even I still marvel at their greenhouse and botanical garden whenever I visit. It’s breathtaking – and they do deserve some credit for that.

March 2023 – Fitzwilly’s (Northampton, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Okay, I’m here all the time – I fully admit it – but their food and their beverages are too good to pass up whenever I’m invited out! Troy and I are big fans of their Bahama Blue Mama cocktail and their “Wicked Alfredo” entree, and it’s become sort of “Our Spot” for a date night whenever he’s staying with me.

April 2023 – Retro Pop Shop (Lee, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This roadside museum/antique shop in the Berkshires was a random find for me one day last Spring, and I still talk about how much fun it is to browse whenever I’m in the area and they’re open for business! The neon signs, the jukeboxes, and the posters make for a fun afternoon of poking around!

May 2023 – The Painted Stone (Sturbridge, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Goodness, this gift shop is still so beautiful every time I visit. Between the plants, the crystals and the tapestries, there’s a little something for everyone in my “Bad Witch” girlfriend group – and they always have something new whenever I stop by!

May 2023 – Pokez (San Diego, CA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Pokez holds a special place in my heart because it was one of the first places my friends in San Diego ever brought me to during my first visit to the area so many years ago when I was still young, sweet and innocent. After all this time, the food is still good, the inside of the restaurant looks exactly the same, and it always makes me feel a little nostalgic whenever I pass by in the car when I’m in town.

June 2023 – The Beach Plum (North Hampton, NH) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Sometimes, a girl just wants a lobster roll and potato salad, and I still frequent this location in-between Rye and Hampton whenever I’m famished and in need of a quick refuel. They serve up a lot of great sides and ice cream, too – but I usually stick with the classics when I’m in the area!

July 2023 – Blooming Table Events (Western Massachusetts) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This “Local Loves” was less of a specific location and more of a local catering/party-planning business I had the pleasure of meeting last Summer, and they do put together the most gorgeous and magical events year-round! I follow them on Instagram and am always blown away by their talent and attention to detail!

July 2023 – Farm Table (Bernardston, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Now that Farm Table has reopened after a long hiatus during the pandemic, I find myself visiting frequently. Dan and I were just there a couple of weeks ago for some drinks, dinner and dessert – and it’s just as phenomenal as ever! Their menu changes seasonally, as well, so there’s always something new to taste and try!

August 2023 – Harvard General Store (Harvard, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This adorable little store and eatery is one of my favorite stops to make when I’m on the back roads coming to/from New Hampshire, and I always stock up on any of their freshly-baked breads or sandwiches to take with me on my journey. I haven’t tried their coffee yet, but I’m hoping to the next time I’m in the area!

August 2023 – Sleepy Hollow Cemetery (Sleepy Hollow, NY) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This historical cemetery is still open to visitors and tourists and is absolutely gorgeous. Troy and I visited last Fall while we were in the area for a wedding, and walked around for hours- even coming across a couple of resting deer while we were there! I may have cried a bit because it was so pretty and peaceful (spoiler: I definitely cried.)

September 2023 – Wells Provisions (Charlemont, MA) – ** CLOSED! **

Perhaps one of the saddest closures of my time here in Western Massachusetts was when Wells Provisions closed up shop last Fall. With the friendliest staff ever, some of the most amazing food and lattes you could ever hope to try in your lifetime, and a very cool atmosphere – losing this place was truly a blow that was felt by everyone who loved it. Although they occasionally do pop-ups from time to time, their storefront is presently for sale.

October 2023 – Strawberry Hollow Farm (Guilford, CT) – ** STILL OPEN – SEASONAL! **

There are so many farms, pumpkin patches and orchards I’m excited to visit this coming Fall season, especially since my friend Stef expressed interest in seeing them, too. I’m looking forward to bringing her to Strawberry Hollow Farm once it opens for the season, because I know she’s going to think it’s just as magical as I do!

October 2023 – S3 Coffee Bar (San Diego, CA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I had introduced Troy to this unique coffee shop while we were traveling through San Diego last year for his job, and he’s been hooked ever since. Their coffee is delicious, their food options are fantastic, and their black and white seating area – designed to look like a cartoon drawing – is perfect for photos!

November 2023 – The Venetian (Weymouth, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Although it had initially been the over-the-top Christmas decorations that first drew me into this Italian restaurant after seeing it on the local news, I ultimately keep coming back, however- because the food is just that good. My friends, some of whom live in the area, are also big fans of this place!

December 2023 – Charlie Brown’s Christmas Farm (East Hampton, CT) – ** STILL OPEN – SEASONAL! **

I’m still determined to have a real Christmas tree one of these holidays seasons, and when I do, I’m going to get it from this adorable little tree farm I came across in Connecticut last year. With a wide selection of trees of all sizes and for every space, as well as a lot of really cute ornaments for sale in their little shop – it was hard not to be taken over by the festive spirit while I was there!

– 2024 (January Through July) –

January 2024 – Green Haus Café (Boston, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This greenhouse/florist shop meets coffee spot remains open and active on Tremont Street, and I highly recommend stopping by in the colder months when the Winter blues are getting to you. All the greenery – and the caffeine – will perk you right up!

February 2024 – Macmannis Florist (Athol, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

I still adore this little flower shop oh so much! Not just because their selection is so wide and unique for any and all occasions calling for flower arrangements, but because the people who work there are the absolute sweetest!

February 2024 – Whetstone Station (Brattleboro, VT) – ** CLOSED! **

It looks like this brewery and pub recently closed it’s doors as it goes through a reported change of ownership, but no reopening date has been announced at the time I’m writing this up, so I’m not 100% sure. I’ll come back and update this post at a later time if there are any new developments announced!

March 2024 – Vermont Country Deli (Brattleboro, VT) – ** STILL OPEN! **

When I’m craving the richest and creamiest macaroni & cheese, I know that there’s only one place to go and it’s to head North to this great little roadside deli/general store on the state line in Vermont. I always stock up so I have plenty of leftovers while I’m working from home!

March 2023 – The Sparkle Barn (Wallingford, VT) – ** STILL OPEN! **

When I was in desperate need of something bright and colorful to help me briefly forget about the Winter, I headed to Vermont – again! – to visit this very unique, very cool gift shop and snap a bunch of photos of their “Flower Room”, which immediately had me ready for the Springtime!

April 2024 – Gombo (Northampton, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

This New Orleans-inspired spot is still one of my absolute favorite places to go for some food with a kick, a strong cocktail and, depending on the night – some excellent local jazz music. Given the turnaround rate of storefronts in Northampton these days, I am doing everything I can to get the word out about this place and keep them on Main Street! They’re so good!

May 2024 – La Dolce Vita (Georgetown, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

When it comes to making fancy tea party dreams come true, this is the place you want to go. I had some of the best and most fun lemonade and chicken coxinha I’ve ever experienced during my visit earlier this year, and I can’t wait to go back with friends!

May 2024 – Ice Cream Alley (Greenfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

Summer isn’t over yet, and that means I’ve got plenty of time to walk down the street to this cute little ice cream shop and have as many sundaes as my heart – and stomach – desire before it’s time to start looking ahead to the Fall!

June 2024 – T.P. Saddleblanket (Great Barrington, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

With my heading to Vegas in a little over a week, I’m thinking I should stop by this Western-inspired shop to grab a couple more things to get me through my days in the desert with style. I’m such a huge fan of this boutique and how everything I’ve purchased there so far just looks so good on!

July 2024 – Ashfield Lake (Ashfield, MA) – ** STILL OPEN! **

And of course, this beautiful lake in a peaceful and quiet community is still open to the public and making the ongoing Summer heat a little more bearable!

____________________

And there we have it! A full update on all the locations I’ve shared from the launch of this blog through this past July! I’m sure that down the line I’ll be coming back to this post to update it if there are any additional changes/closures/re-openings or relocations at any point – but as of now, August 2024, it is completely up-to-date and accurate!

And maybe when I have another (nearly) 100 new locations added to the current list of “Local Loves”, I’ll do another round-up similar to this one. A girl can dream big, can’t she?

Of course, if you have any updates to any of the locations noted above that you think should be included – please feel free to leave a comment or drop me a line!

And here’s to my next “Local Loves” post I’ve got planned in the next couple of weeks!

The adventures continue!

xo