Holiday Shopping in Old Sacramento

I always have to make the rounds in Old Sacramento, with its unique collection of shops, at least once during the holiday season. Here are a few of the stores I've visited so far this year.

If you're shopping for toys this holiday season, be sure to check out locally-owned G. Willikers! Toy Emporium. They have a nice selection of actual toys, as opposed to the computerized high-tech gadgets that pass for toys these day. If nothing else, stop by for a look at the golden bear, made entirely from Legos, in front of the store.

Visions of Eden is another fun place to shop locally for the holidays, especially for the women on your holiday shopping list. Jewelry, handbags, scarves, and body care products are just some of the must-have merchandise you can find there.

I was happy to discover Taylor's Art & Soul on my most recent visit to Old Sacramento. Although it's new to me, the store has actually been in business for six years, selling beautiful jewelry, art, and gifts made by a variety of local artists. Definitely worth a look!

After all of this shopping, you'll probably be tired and hungry. Treat yourself to dinner at Tower Bridge Bistro at the Embassy Suites Hotel, where Chef Clay Purcell has created a special prix fixe vegan menu for the month of December. It looks fabulous!