Shopping
Carmel’s charming main street voted among best in US for Christmas shopping
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Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea was among five California main streets, including two in the top 10, that were voted favorite holiday shopping destinations in a poll recognizing the top 150 U.S. main streets for Christmas shopping.
Already quite the upscale town, Carmel’s main street features European-inspired architecture and elegant boutiques, making a must-visit for luxury Christmas shopping sprees.
Present.com, a website focused on gifts for different holidays, surveyed 3,000 respondents to find America’s favorite main streets to go Christmas shopping.
While online shopping continues to grow in popularity, the list includes main streets that are “hidden gems” and “have retained their unique character and charm, beloved by locals and those visiting from out of town,” according to a news release.
Here are the other main streets in California voted as top Christmas shopping destinations:
Top California main streets for holiday shopping
Broad Street, Nevada City, California
The No. 7-rated main street in the nation makes you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, thanks to the city’s gold rush-era architecture and Victorian Christmas celebrations. Occasional carolers and twinkling lights add to the festive atmosphere.
Three other California main streets were included among the nation’s top 150 for Christmas shopping:
No. 12 Mill Street, Grass Valley
Grass Valley’s Mill Street offers a cozy holiday experience, with local shops, festive lights, and a historic vibe that make for enjoyable Christmas shopping.
No. 24 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang
Solvang’s Danish-inspired Copenhagen Drive turns into a Christmas village with unique European shops, bakeries, and decorations that transport shoppers to a festive wonderland.
No. 41 Healdsburg Avenue, Healdsburg
Healdsburg Avenue sparkles during the holidays, with boutique shops, local wines, and cozy cafes in a beautiful wine-country setting ideal for Christmas shopping.