The best book, hobby & craft shops in Newport

Matriarch is the bookstore-meets-gift shop locals hit when they want a new read plus something cheeky, from witty kids and adult tees to stickers and temporary tattoos, all centering women creators. Their in-house Overseasoned line serves feminist, food-loving flair that keeps your kitchen and convictions spicy.

From the Newport newsletter, October 8, 2026

Commonwealth Books of Newport fills a restored 18th-century space with history, poetry, art, and mysteries, plus bins of vintage maps and prints. They buy, sell, and trade, and the ever-changing mix ranges from leatherbound treasures to dog-eared paperbacks spanning five centuries.

From the Newport newsletter, October 15, 2026

Between the hand-carved horses, waterfront views, and year-round spins, The Fall River Carousel nails that sweet spot between kid magic and grown-up serotonin. Grab coffee or ice cream at the on-site Gathering Grounds Cafe, build a buddy at The Bear Factory, then plan your next birthday or photo session.

From the Fall River newsletter, October 6, 2026

Once Upon a Bookstore is a cozy pop-up tucked inside SoCo Art Labs with a speakeasy vibe, mixing new and used finds, spotlighting local authors, and hosting bookish events. Can’t spot your white whale title? Ask and they’ll happily hunt it down, so your TBR pile gets a worthy upgrade.

From the Fall River newsletter, October 13, 2026

Emmanuel College Bookstore has the school spirit on lock, with Emmanuel College Saints tees, pennants, magnets, and all the textbooks you actually need, whether new, used, or digital. Plus a surprisingly deep lineup of school supplies, dorm and home gear, and even electronics when your charger ghosts you.

From the Brookline newsletter, September 3, 2026

Ranked one of Boston’s top five art stores, SMFA Art Store is run by artists with 55 years of collective know-how and serious material-geek energy. Swing by for hard-to-find supplies stocked to instructors’ specs, plus technical workshops and one-on-one advice to nail your next project.

From the Brookline newsletter, October 11, 2026

Chain selling guitars, drums, pianos and other instruments, plus repair services.