The best book, hobby & craft shops in Rochester

Actuarial Bookstore is the no-fuss, one-stop place for SOA, CAS, CIA, EA and IFoA prep, plus VEE resources, calculators and pro development webinars, so you can study from Kittery without hunting all over the internet, then track shipments and dive into their eLearning tools when you're ready, and save brainpower for…

From the Portsmouth newsletter, October 19, 2026

Great Bay Community College is the go-to for practical programs that fit a Portsmouth life, from short-term workforce training to degree paths with transfer-friendly routes to UNH. Support’s legit too, with advisors, tutors, and the Center for Academic Planning and Support keeping you on track.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, October 14, 2026

Reedmor Books & Brews pairs a well curated, adult-leaning selection with a cozy bar/cafe pouring coffee, beer, and wine.

From the Kittery newsletter, October 7, 2026

Sea Love turns a quick hop to Portsmouth into a hands-on candle pour, with Certified Scent Stylists helping you blend from 100+ fragrances and craft a soy candle in about an hour. It’s spot on for date nights or groups, and their coastal-minded boutique is great for thoughtful gifts.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, September 30, 2026

Portsmouth Book Nook is the downtown indie where the staff actually reads, steering you to bestsellers, hidden gems, and thoughtful picks for kids too. Pop in for author events and book clubs, special orders with gift wrapping, plus puzzles, games, and bookish gifts... org.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, September 22, 2026

UNH Bookstore is the go-to for course materials, last-minute lab notebooks, and all the blue-and-white gear you need to look mildly put together on game day. They also stock laptops, chargers, dorm essentials, snacks, and even a legit book selection, so you can actually read something not on your syllabus.

From the Durham newsletter, September 23, 2026

Literally Kittery is a new local bookstore opening soon, and if your TBR pile could use a little fresh trouble, get on their newsletter to hear when shelves open and what’s coming first. A homegrown spot to browse real spines, chat books, and keep it Kittery.

From the Kittery newsletter, September 23, 2026

Since 1989, Gary's Guitars has been the Seacoast's independent go-to for new and used electrics, acoustics, basses, amps, pedals and the strings you forgot again. Drop in for honest repairs and real-deal lessons, then poke through ever-changing gear that might finally kick your practice slump this week.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, August 7, 2026

Whether you're piecing your first quilt or finally tackling that UFO, Seacoast Sewing And Quilting is the go-to for quality fabric, classes that actually help, and friendly machine expertise.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, September 16, 2026

Retail chain carrying music, movies & video games in a variety of formats, plus books & gifts.

Chain retailer carrying art & hobby supplies plus home decor (most offer classes & custom framing).

If your fabric stash is begging for fresh inspiration, Merri Stitches has the good stuff: quality yardage and precuts, threads from Aurifil to Glide, scissor sharpening, machine repairs, plus classes on longarm quilting, embroidery, and MySewNet. Swing by this week and get your next project humming.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, August 13, 2026

Chain carrying electric and acoustic instruments from top brands, along with lessons.

Portsmouth Fabric Co is the spot locals go when 'just a yard' turns into a plan, with high-end quilting and garment fabrics, specialty threads, and a deep bench of beloved designers like Kaffe Fassett, Rifle Paper Co, and Tula Pink. Bonus points for BERNINA machines and hands-on classes that actually level you up.

From the Portsmouth newsletter, September 20, 2026