Shops & Galleries

Dover’s tree-lined downtown is brimming with quaint shops and galleries. A host of shops, restaurants, and services are located within easy traveling distance of one another. The area offers a wide array of one-of-a-kind treasures such as handmade jewelry, original art, clothing, and classic New England antiques.

Artisans and art enthusiasts enjoy Dover’s eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and studios. Images of the Past Gallery features sepia-toned and hand-colored historic photographs printed from glass plate negatives, while Village Goldsmith Gallery and Sights Unscene showcase the work of more contemporary area artists.

Dover’s Salmon Falls Stoneware is one of the nation’s most popular makers of traditional New England salt-glazed pottery. Capturing the spirit of pottery made in the late 1800s, each individual pot is handmade and decorated. All pieces are designed, created, and sold in the Oak Street Engine House. The production studio and factory store are among New England’s most popular tourist destinations.

For more unique crafts and gifts, head to Accoutréments, Blue Moon Antiques and Collectibles, Cocheco Falls Gallery, Nuance, Nicole’s Hallmark, or Care Pharmacy, which also features gourmet foods.

You may become inspired while browsing through Dover Curtain Company, Holmwood Associates, Ross Furniture, or Seacoast Furniture; all offer traditional and contemporary home furnishings and accessories.

Visit Cynthia Designs Studio which specializes in custom apparel, alterations and home fabrications; also offering a unique clothing line for all ages.

Alie Jewelers, Naser Jewelers, and Jewelry Creations feature rings, bracelets, necklaces, wristwatches, and more. If you enjoy making your own jewelry or decorations, stop by The Bead Bin and peruse the extensive collection of beads and jewelry-making supplies that are available or visit Naked Plates to decorate your own pottery.

You’ll find bicycles, yard games, and sports equipment at Philbrick’s Sports Center. Hayden Sports offers University of New Hampshire and other sweatshirts, t-shirts, shorts, hats, and more. For sports shoes and all types of footwear, explore Red’s Famous Shoe Barn. Parents and kids might enjoy a short jaunt to Leaps and Bounds Education Planet, where they can indulge in fun, yet educational games, toys, and brainteasers.

For photographic equipment or telescopes, try Rivers Camera Shop, which is known throughout New England for its extensive selection of both. Even Steve Tyler of Aerosmith shops here! If you’re simply seeking film development, you also could drop by Photosmith.

Music lovers should not miss Earcraft Music or Ralph’s House of Tone, both of which offer musical equipment and supplies, instruction information, and job leads to aspiring musicians.

Ready for a break? Stop by Bellaviso Salon and Spa, or My Liege Salon and Spa for one of their pampering services—facials, massages, manicures and pedicures, or haircuts and color. Follow up your day of beauty with some yummy treats from one of the many coffee and dessert stops—Harvey’s Bakery and Coffee Shop, Café Ciabatta, Dover Soul, or Café on the Corner.

You may wish to consider purchasing a Dover Main Street gift certificate, which can be used just like cash at stores and restaurants throughout Dover.