Are you a proud owner of an American Express card and looking for some exciting places to visit? Small businesses play a vital role in the economy and often offer unique experiences that cannot be found elsewhere. In this article, we have compiled a list of ten small businesses that you must visit with your American Express card. From artisanal bakeries to vintage record stores, there is something for everyone on this list. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
Why Visit Small Businesses?
Small businesses often have unique offerings that cannot be found elsewhere. Whether it’s a specialty coffee shop or a vintage bookstore, small businesses add character to our communities. In addition, when you shop at a small business, you are supporting local entrepreneurs who are working hard to make their dreams a reality. By using your American Express card at these businesses, you can also take advantage of special offers and promotions. So, not only are you supporting small businesses, but you’re also getting some great deals in the process.
#1: Gjusta Bakery – Venice, California
Gjusta Bakery is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. This artisanal bakery offers a variety of baked goods, including bread, pastries, and sandwiches. They also have a deli counter where you can order charcuterie, cheese, and salads. Gjusta Bakery prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients and traditional techniques. They also offer catering services and have a private dining room for events.
#2: The Meadow – Portland, Oregon
The Meadow is a boutique that specializes in gourmet salts, chocolates, and flowers. They have an extensive collection of salts from around the world, including Himalayan pink salt and French sea salt. The Meadow also offers a variety of artisanal chocolates and truffles. In addition, they have a flower shop where you can purchase unique arrangements and bouquets. The Meadow is a great place to find unique gifts for foodies and flower enthusiasts.
#3: Blue Bottle Coffee – San Francisco, California
Blue Bottle Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster that is known for its high-quality beans and unique brewing methods. They have locations all over the world, but their flagship store is located in San Francisco. Blue Bottle Coffee offers a variety of single-origin coffees, as well as espresso drinks and pastries. They also have a subscription service where you can have fresh coffee beans delivered to your door every month.
#4: La Colombe – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
La Colombe is a coffee roaster and cafe that is known for its strong, smooth coffee. They have locations all over the United States, but their flagship store is located in Philadelphia. La Colombe offers a variety of coffee drinks, as well as baked goods and sandwiches. They also have a line of canned draft lattes that are perfect for on-the-go.
#5: Strand Bookstore – New York, New York
The Strand Bookstore is a must-visit destination for book lovers. This iconic bookstore has been around since 1927 and has a vast selection of new and used books. They offer everything from bestsellers to rare and out-of-print books. The Strand also hosts author events and book signings, making it a great place to meet your favorite authors.
#6: Baldwin’s Book Barn – West Chester, Pennsylvania
Baldwin’s Book Barn is a unique bookstore housed in a 200-year-old barn. This bookstore has been around since 1934 and is known for its vast collection of used and rare books. They also offer antique maps and prints, making it a great place to find unique gifts for history buffs. Baldwin’s Book Barn also hosts events, including book signings and author talks.
#7: The Spice House – Chicago, Illinois
The Spice House is a specialty spice shop that offers high-quality spices, herbs, and blends. They have locations in Chicago, Milwaukee, and Evanston. The Spice House prides itself on sourcing the freshest spices and creating unique blends that are sure to elevate any dish. They also offer gift boxes and subscriptions, making it a great place to find gifts for foodies.
#8: Powell’s City of Books – Portland, Oregon
Powell’s City of Books is the largest independent bookstore in the world. This iconic bookstore takes up an entire city block and has over a million books. They offer everything from bestsellers to rare and out-of-print books. Powell’s City of Books also hosts events, including author readings and book clubs.
#9: The Record Exchange – Boise, Idaho
The Record Exchange is a must-visit destination for music lovers. This independent record store has been around since 1977 and has a vast selection of vinyl records, CDs, and DVDs. They offer everything from mainstream hits to indie and underground music. The Record Exchange also hosts events, including live music performances and album release parties.
#10: The Cheese Shop of Des Moines – Des Moines, Iowa
The Cheese Shop of Des Moines is a specialty cheese shop that offers high-quality cheeses from around the world. They also offer cured meats, crackers, and other accompaniments. The Cheese Shop of Des Moines prides itself on its knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect cheese for any occasion. They also offer gift baskets and catering services.
Conclusion
Small businesses are an essential part of our communities, and by using your American Express card at these businesses, you can help support local entrepreneurs while taking advantage of special offers and promotions. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to explore new places, these ten small businesses are a must-visit for any American Express cardholder.
FAQs
- How do I find small businesses that accept American Express?
- You can use the American Express Shop Small map to find participating small businesses in your area.
- What are the benefits of using my American Express card at small businesses?
- American Express often offers special promotions and deals for cardholders who shop at small businesses.
- Can I use my American Express card at any small business?
- Not all small businesses accept American Express, but you can use the American Express Shop Small map to find participating businesses.
- How do small businesses benefit from accepting American Express?
- Accepting American Express can help small businesses increase sales and reach new customers.
- Can I earn rewards points when I use my American Express card at small businesses?
- Yes, you can earn rewards points when you use your American Express card at small businesses that participate in the rewards program.
