While shopping is not something I typically think of when I think of Deep Creek Lake, there are a couple of hidden gems I want to highlight that are more of an experience than just a store. Plus, after spending a few days with family, it’s always good to make a quick getaway!
Schoolhouse Earth
This is one of my favorite stores, not just in Deep Creek, but ever! Something about that cute, woodsy exterior makes my heart sing when I drive up the country road leading to it. Its diminutive size hides the fact that there are a wealth of treasures hidden inside.
Once you get out of the car, you are immediately enveloped by the sound of numerous windchimes. You may see a cow, or something bigger, grazing in the fields to the left of and behind the store buildings. Once you walk down the gravel path, you can decide whether to go to the house on the left, the right, or straight back.
If you have the kids with you (more on that in a minute), I recommend going straight back first so you can visit the farm animals that live on the property. As far as I understand it, they are all rescues. You are welcome to feed them, so make sure to bring a few quarters so you can buy the feed from the dispenser. Depending on the weather, some days you may see one or two goats hanging out,. Other days, you may be blessed to see all kinds of animals, including sheep, llamas, and turkeys.
Once you are finished feeding the animals, you can go either left or right to start shopping. When you enter the store, you may understand why I usually choose not to bring my children. There are trinkets everywhere, including ones that could easily break. This isn’t to say you should never bring your kids. They’ll enjoy it as much as you will! But their unbridled enthusiasm can sometimes take a lot of energy to wrangle and detract from your leisurely browsing time, so maybe bring them once for a quick run-through and then come back another day when you are in the mood for a break.
Some of the many items you will find at Schoolhouse Earth include:
- Funny signs, with sayings like, “Welcome to the Firepit, where Marshmallows and Friends Get Toasted.”
- All kinds of yummy dips, cheeses, mixes and spices
- A variety of garden decorations, including animals, gnomes, baskets, chimes, and spinners
- Artwork galore
- Kitchen accessories, from barware to potholders to slicers
- Delicious scents from candles, incense, and diffusers
- An entire year-round holiday shop, with a focus on Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
- A section dedicated to beautiful, unique kids’ gifts, with everything from handmade baby blankets and outfits to Melissa and Doug toys
- Soaps and lotions
- Cards and stationery
- Unique, earthy jewelry that won’t break the bank
You don’t want to miss anything, so make sure you have at least an hour (maybe more) to peruse both buildings. The second floor with the artwork is a must, as is the year-round holiday shop. And the fact that you get to sample some food items as you browse makes for a complete outing. You’ll leave the way you do after Christmas, feeling like all is right with the world and with your arms full of goodies.
Shawnee Trading Post
For years, my dad has been talking about the Shawnee Trading Post in an almost reverential fashion. He’s taken my kids there several times. I’ve just never had much of a desire to go. Each time, they’ve come back also discussing the trading post as if it were a magical world. So, this time, I finally decided to see what the hype was all about.
We drove a little over ten minutes down the road from our house, turning onto a couple of side roads off 219 that feel as if they’re in the middle of nowhere. A few nice houses and barns dot the landscape, but mostly it’s just pleasant rolling hills and farmland. Then, on a flat stretch of ground, the trading post “garden” appears suddenly on the right.
After listening to my mom’s repeated warnings about the smell inside, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But, after just a few minutes of wandering, I didn’t even notice the musty odor. I love antique shops, and this is one of the most unique I’ve visited. Just like at Schoolhouse Earth, you will find Christmas decorations, kids’ toys, and artwork. However, unlike at Schoolhouse Earth, where everything is new and shiny, the articles at the Shawnee Trading Post have a decidedly antique, sometimes used, feel. Many of them have chips in the paint, and some of the collection could be considered “junk,” but it’s still fun to look at nonetheless. Treasures can undoubtedly be found in unexpected places.
A giant giraffe was the first thing I noticed. As we pulled up to the building, little figurines were everywhere. Snow White and the seven dwarfs, gnomes, frogs, you name it. We got out of the car and immediately walked to the garden, complete with varying sizes of elephants, dinosaurs, and gorillas holding walking sticks. Two old train cabooses completed the picture. While it was all a bit strange, it truly is a wonderland, especially for the kids.
There are three rooms inside, but they are all so large and full that it feels like you could wander for hours. The back room really piqued my interest. In there, I found some of the most unique carved statues I’ve ever seen. For example, there is a giant, hand-carved bull made from mahogany, one of only two in the world (or so the sign proclaims.) There are iron statues of golfers, sports figures, and animals. It’s quite spooky and intriguing. And, as I’ve already said once, it’s great for kids! If you need a rainy-day activity, pack everyone up, don’t tell them where you’re going, and watch them look around in awe.
The Shawnee Trading Post is an experience in itself, so you really don’t have to buy anything to enjoy yourself. However, Lee and I made out with six charming Christmas decorations of an old-fashioned village scene, complete with a covered bridge and decorated church, for just $10 each. The kids also bought well-made slinkies (metal, not plastic) for $1 each. If I had a couple thousand dollars to drop, I would have picked up the iron golfer for my husband, though.
Just like many of the pieces in that back room, it would be a unique piece of art. I could guarantee none of our friends would have something like it. If you’re the type of person who’s into things that are just a bit “different,” the Shawnee Trading Post is made for you.
More Options for Shopping in Deep Creek Lake
Bear Creek Traders – This is the quintessential tourist shop, with lots of Deep Creek Lake sweatshirts and paraphernalia. Definitely worth a look around for clothing or to buy items by which to remember your trip. And kids will love the big bear!
Firefly Farms – One day I will give this place a proper review. I’ve been planning to visit for years, but keep missing my chance due to COVID and general vacation distractions. Near Deep Creek in Accident, Maryland, Firefly Farms is well-known for selling their cheese all over Maryland and the surrounding areas. They sell wine, cheese, bread, and other gourmet items, and are happy to make a delicious cheese board for you. When I called to inquire about coming in, the gentleman I spoke with was pleasant and accommodating. I cannot wait to finally make it there.
Alpaca Acres Farm and Fiber – Another place I’d love to try! Just outside of Herrington Manor State Park, you can meet the alpacas, reserve a campfire, and participate in all kinds of farm activities. At the store, you can buy products made from alpaca fiber, novelty items, rustic decor, gifts and more. This is definitely on my to-do list for next time I’m in Deep Creek Lake.
Spruce Forest Artisan Village – I’ve been hearing about this artist’s haven for years and have yet to make the trip, but it’s going to happen! Set in a beautiful spruce forest, which was sadly partially destroyed by a storm last summer, artists-in-residence display their craft right in front of your eyes. This special place could really use the support of visitors as they have been hit by the double whammy of the pandemic and a terrible storm.
I know there are many more shops in Deep Creek Lake that deserve to be mentioned. Please leave a comment or shoot me an email if you have any suggestions!
Want More Deep Creek Lake Info?
- Where to Stay in Deep Creek Lake
- Whitewater Rafting near Deep Creek (with kids!)
- Deep Creek Lake Restaurants
- State Parks Near Deep Creek Lake
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