Park the car then shop & stroll your way around these 13 unique businesses in Washington Depot (Litchfield County). The “Depot” is quintessential CT and as pretty as can be. Your Instagram account will thank you!
We recommend clicking any of these you plan to visit for their current hours. All stores are following COVID rules and feel safe and inviting! Bonus: all are a comfortable walking distance from each other.
Five Janes
Five Janes is small but mighty! Stop here for irresistible gifts, cute clothing lines, Washington merch, and Haute Shore totes that we love. We also spotted a bunch of jigsaw puzzles we’d make and then frame, locally made goodies, and pretty masks.
Hickory Stick Bookshop
Mmm, breathe in the smell of real books (through your mask!)! The Hickory Stick has been a part of the community for 70 years next year. We could have spent hours browsing, especially in the CT history and coffee table book sections. Gifts, stationery, and toys, too.
The Hen’s Nest
Hidden gem alert! The Hen’s Nest is filled with an eclectic mix of surprise and wonder. You’re going to find beautifully crafted wall art, jewelry, ceramics, and one-of-kind things you’ll fall in love with (see felted vultures below ⬇️).
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Byrde + the b
Not only a destination hair and beauty salon, Byrde + the b is also a gallery and store of luxe global goods! Founder Scott Bond has a knack for spotting (and making) awesome products and carries adorable hair accessories, Marvis toothpaste, Proraso shaving products, VERB hair goods, Dazzle Dry nail kits, and Environ skincare. Oh, and Thorncrest milk house chocolate bars!
The Pantry
The Pantry has a 40-year tradition of serving delicious food in the community. Currently, the emphasis is on curbside takeout and window shopping the store (great kitchen items). Top tip: pre-order your lunch box, sandwich, hors d’oeuvres, or fresh baked goods in the morning by giving them a call and picking up later!
Our picnic – YUM!! We need that carrot salad recipe!
The Valley
Fresh flowers and floral designs are now available in the Depot, along with fine jewelry, and unique finds. The shop features the work of Beth Fowler of LOAM and Julie Hollander of BowenNYC, along with beautiful and functional art and finds from all over the world. Sister company Valley Wellness is open for private classes and treatments in its studio and clinic rooms.
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J.McLaughlin
J.McLaughlin is a modern classic American sportswear and accessory brand for men and women. The store in Washington Depot has an “enchanted cottage” feel to it and reflects the sophisticated country feels of Washington with its lush views and active cultural life. Also, animal prints for the win!
Washington Liquor Store
Stock up on your Litchfield Distillery canned cocktails, or expand your rosé collection. Washington Liquor Store has a great selection of wines and spirits and also carries a nice amount of seasonal and local products. Having a large event? They can deliver. Phone 860-868-7471
Washington Supply Outdoor Living Center
Everything you need to make your outdoor space your favorite place! They have cool outdoor furniture, fire pits, gardening tools and supplies, gifts, outdoor decorations, birdhouses (and food), and lots more. It’s a fun place to browse, and if you need any hardware, it’s right next door!
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B. Hive Salon
Spur of the moment hair makeover? B. Hive Salon is a beautiful, friendly space specializing in men’s and women’s cuts, dimensional color, highlighting, balayage, and Brazilian Blowout smoothing treatments. You can also stock up on your AG Hair products, plus Arbonne hair, skincare, and makeup.
KMR Arts
KMR Arts presents world-class, established artists in the hamlet of Washington Depot. Visitors can experience 6 exhibitions annually, and you can always count on them leaving a lasting impression! Kathy Root also offers KM Installations: a service for clients to install art, family photos, etc. as a service and a natural extension of the gallery.
Pilar BLLaC Beauty Studio
People travel far and wide to visit Pilar DeMann in her studio for brow care! Services include microblading, shaping, tinting, and LightStim LED light therapy. In addition, Pilar BLLaC is the only beauty studio in CT to carry 3 Moons Skin Rituals face creme, swoon!
George
George has an impressive selection of lighting, seating, tableware, and art! Visit this handsome lifestyle and design store for styles that range from antique to mid-century modern. You can be sure that anything you purchase from George will end up as beautiful talking points in your home!
Fun factlet
Washington Depot was the inspiration for the fictional town of Stars Hollow seen in Gilmore Girls. Yes, it’s that quaint!
We hope you love your visit and don’t forget to tag us in your pics!
xo Bev + Lora
Pics: Lora Karam (bag photo provided by Five Janes)/ Words: Bev Canepari