Joanne Rodgers,
Bruce Peninsula Press
“Our doors are open”, say Lion’s Head merchants looking to dispel any perception that Lion’s Head is too congested and that parking is an issue. Merchants say that a great time to visit Lion’s Head is mid-afternoon any day of the week, including weekends.
Historically, between 2 pm to 5 p.m., afternoons have always been a slower time for local businesses, but merchants say they have seen a marked decline in shoppers from a few years ago. They are concerned that local and neighbouring communities feel there is no parking available and it is just too busy to be out and about. The merchants wish to remind shoppers that there is two-hour free parking throughout the day, and there is no shortage of available parking spots by mid-afternoon.
A Forty Hills Road resident says she usually plans to come out shopping after 1 p.m. when garden and house chores are done. There is never a problem finding a parking spot and both the grocery and hardware stores are less busy. The quieter aisles give shoppers time to pick up items on their shopping list, but also offers a slower pace to browse and find items they might need, or to see what is available locally.
Marydale Ashcroft, owner of The Shops at 84 Main, says that shoppers will find that prices locally are competitive to the major box stores and online shopping sites. But an additional benefit is that the local shopper is giving back to the community. Not only does shopping locally support local employment, the merchants donate generously to a myriad of community activities from festivals to sporting events.
The stores of Lion’s Head offer a wide range of items for every need, including everyday essentials, specialty food products, clothing, vintage items, outdoor and recreational goods and Canadian made items.
Scott’s Home Hardware offers more than just an extensive range of hardware supplies. There is a large fishing department, outdoor camping supplies, water toys, kids toys, home decor and gardening supplies.
The Art Shoppe recently relocated to downtown Lion’s Head. Owner Nicole Gamble and staff have transformed the space into a premier art gallery. Nicole says that the front room will be used to feature guest artists on a monthly basis.
Leo’s Closet specialises in new and gently-used clothing and accessories, while the Me to You Thrift Store offers a wide variety of clothing, kitchen and home related items. An antique store showcases many unique and specialty vintage items.
The Shops at 84 Main offers great ideas for gifts, entertaining, home decor, personal wear and specialty food items; you can also find a lot of interesting games and toys to keep the younger generation busy.
Hellyer’s Foodland supplies your grocery necessities, but take the time to wander up to the second floor to Grandad’s Attic. Co-owner Kara Hellyer says there is “something for everyone” including kitchen ware, apparel, beach wear, home decor, toys, yarn – expect to find many treasures.
And it is a good time to include in your outing a visit to the post office, bank, library or pharmacy.
Sit awhile, and treat yourself to a beverage and/or snack. Stop by Rachel’s Restaurant, Club Cafe or Taste Kitchen for something sumptuous. Or be served a coffee from a robotic barista at Cabinco Convenience.
Take an afternoon break while the kids are at playdates or still in school, come out after doing your chores, or if you need to fill a lull in the afternoon, or on a rainy afternoon, or if you simply need some retail therapy – a stroll down Main Street in Lion’s Head might just be what you need. Take advantage of the two hour free parking. Enjoy the more leisurely pace and make Lion’s Head your shopping destination. Come out and see what is new, get fresh ideas and shop local.
Opening hours for the shops may vary depending on the day of the week; there may be extended hours on long weekends. Please check out the opening hours for the shops you plan on visiting to avoid disappointments.
