11/25/25

Around Town, Neighborhood Spotlights

Small Business Saturday: Shops That Make Monroe Street Special

Monroe Street blends small-town charm with big personality. This Small Business Saturday, skip the big box stores and discover the local gems that make this neighborhood so special. From artisan shops and locally owned cafés to boutiques filled with one-of-a-kind finds, you’ll find unique treasures and friendly faces around every corner. This holiday season we’re reflecting on the importance of shopping small and supporting the people and places that give our community its heart. Here are a few standout small businesses to check out (and fall in love with) this holiday season.

Orange Tree Imports – 1721 Monroe Street

This beloved shop has been a Monroe Street staple since 1975. Known for its curated collection of kitchen gadgets, cookbooks, and clever gifts, Orange Tree Imports is a perfect stop for holiday shopping. You’ll find everything from gourmet treats to quirky stocking stuffers.

Why visit:

• Locally owned for nearly 50 years
• Friendly, knowledgeable staff
• Great for gift-giving, foodies, and creative home items
• Offers cooking classes, events, knife sharpening, and more
• Special Offer: Enter to win a big basket of special gifts!

Hive of Madison – 1904 Monroe Street

A lifestyle boutique that blends stylish outdoor gear with everyday essentials. Hive carries brands like Patagonia, Vuori, Birkenstock, and more, offering a perfect mix of fashion and function. The apparel and accessories that fill Hive of Madison are curated specifically for the men and women of Madison, a city where every day holds opportunities for adventure.

Why visit:

• High-quality, durable goods
• Great for gifting to the adventurer or minimalist in your life
• Thoughtfully curated selection in a beautifully designed space

Good Day Shop – 1925 Monroe Street

This design-forward shop features goods from independent artists, makers, and creatives. When visiting Good Day Shop, expect to find home decor, self-care products, stationery, and stunning locally made items that feel special and personal.

Why visit:

• Unique, artisan-made products
• Stylish home goods, candles, ceramics, and more
• Excellent spot for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts
• Special Event: Featuring hot mulled cider on tap, wish list making, & stovetop simmer make-n-take

Artsy Fartsy – 1717 Monroe Street

Equal parts whimsical and fun, this colorful shop is filled with handmade jewelry, artwork, home decor, and cheeky gifts. It’s the kind of place where browsing is part of the joy and you never know what you’ll find. In addition to fabulous finds, Artsy Fartsy is also known for hosting fun art classes and pop-up events.

Why visit:

• Local art and handcrafted items
• Fun finds with tons of personality
• A perfect stop for stocking stuffers or something quirky

Mystery to Me Bookstore – 1863 Monroe Street

An independent bookstore with a warm, community vibe and a strong focus on local authors, literary events, and personalized service. Whether you’re shopping for a book lover or looking to discover your next favorite read, Mystery to Me is a neighborhood treasure.

Why visit:

• Carefully curated selection of books
• Local author spotlights and events
• Cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home

MSN Plant Collective – 1817 Monroe Street

Step into a plant paradise. MSN Plant Collective offers an incredible array of vibrant, healthy houseplant, alongside beautiful planters and plant care essentials. This woman-owned plant boutique will (literally) bring life to your space.

Why visit:

• Wide selection of lush, well-cared-for houseplants
• Friendly, knowledgeable plant lovers ready to help
• Beautiful ceramics, pots, and botanical gifts

Why Shop Small on Monroe Street?

Small Business Saturday isn’t just about scoring great finds: it’s about supporting the heartbeat of a neighborhood and celebrating the people who make it unique. When you shop small, you’re investing in the creativity, passion, and dedication of Madison’s local entrepreneurs, who pour their hearts into every product, service, and experience they offer. By shopping Monroe Street (and other small shops), you’re helping local entrepreneurs thrive, keeping the streets bustling with life, and preserving the charm, character, and authenticity that make Madison so special—one thoughtful purchase at a time.

Don’t miss: Many Monroe Street shops offer Small Business Saturday deals, extended hours, and complimentary treats to shoppers. Anyone who shops or dines at any of the participating Monroe Street restaurants, shops, and businesses on Small Business Saturday will be able to enter to win a tote bag and a $25 gift card to a different Monroe Street business. For the complete list of participating stores, visit the Monroe Street Madison website.