A trip to the mall usually appeals to us when we know exactly what we want and are on a tight timeframe, or maybe we’re just craving a quick bite from our favorite spot in the food court. However, when you’re not short on time or just feel like window shopping, you won’t find a better place than this small town in Pennsylvania that’s dotted with shops and restaurants.

Slip on your comfiest shoes for your visit to Carlisle's darling downtown, a vibrant area that's bustling with activity all year round.
Facebook/Love Carlisle
The town that's home to more than 20,000 residents offers street parking, if you can score a spot, and there are several parking lots in the downtown area.
Facebook/Carlisle Borough Government
Stroll through the charming downtown, where you'll come across an eclectic selection of shops. Even if you're not shopping for anything in particular, you're sure to find a gem or two.
Facebook/Love Carlisle
Explore the shops that sell a little bit of everything from clothing at the Clothes Vine to unique gifts at Suds-N-Kisses.
Facebook/Love Carlisle
You can even paint your own pottery or glass at Create-A-Palooza, which also hosts classes and workshops.
Facebook/Love Carlisle

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Carlisle is also home to a year-round farmers market, held at the First Presbyterian Church. Farmers on the Square is open every Wednesday, so you can stock up on fresh goodies.
Facebook/Love Carlisle
Hours at Farmers on the Square are from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. from May through October and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. from November through April.
You'll find a delicious assortment of restaurants downtown, too. However, if you're a fan of a good chili cheese dog, be sure you stop by Hamilton Restaurant, a favorite since 1938.
Google/Seth Miller
Sink your teeth into a scrumptious hot-chee dog, The throwback eatery serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you're to find a meal that hits the spot and leaves you stuffed.
Google/M. McCoy
If you're visiting during the warmer months, you might want to bring your pup along. Some of the restaurants in Carlisle that offer outdoor dining are dog-friendly.
Carlisle hosts a variety of events throughout the year, so keep an eye on its website (listed below) for all of the latest news.
Facebook/Love Carlisle
If you love Christmas, you'll find no better place to get in the spirit and get a bit of holiday shopping done.
Keep up-to-date with all of the happenings in town on the Love Carlisle website. Or, stop by its Facebook page.
Facebook/Love Carlisle

Do you have a favorite small town in Pennsylvania for shopping and dining out? Let us know in the comments! For an old-fashioned experience, make your way to this old-time general store in Pennsylvania.

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Carlisle, PA 17013, USA