Finding the perfect home is about more than just the house itself. The community and nearby amenities will have a major impact on whether you'll truly enjoy living there. Easy access to great shopping and dining options ranks among one of the most important priorities for potential home buyers. 

Luckily, those exploring Excelsior homes for sale have plenty of excellent choices. Here are a few of our favorites.

Shopping in Downtown Excelsior 

1. Martin's Boutique – 212 Water St.
   Family-owned Martin's Boutique has been pleasing locals and visitors since 1972. They carry classic, trendy styles for women of all ages. Each piece is only sold in limited qualities, so anything you buy here will be unique and special. There are always new treasures popping up, so you'll want to stop by often. 

2. Epitome Papers - 270 Water St.
   When you're planning to celebrate life's milestones, you'll definitely want to pay a visit to Epitome Papers. Here you'll find gorgeous, high-quality stationery, greeting cards, invitations, gifts, and more. 

3. Amore & Fede - 226 Water St.
   A premiere women's clothing boutique, Amore & Fede is your go-to shop for fashionable denim, trendy tops, jewelry, and accessories. This family-owned boutique is known for combining style with a strong sense of community. They pride themselves on donating a portion of all profits to local and international charitable organizations.
   
   
4. GRAY Home + Lifestyle - 264 Water St.
   Owned by a local mother and daughter team, GRAY Home + Lifestyle offers shoppers classic clothing, jewelry, and accessories. They also carry home decor with a simple, minimal design, as well as candles, perfume, skincare, and more.

Dining in Downtown Excelsior 

1. Olive's Fresh Excelsior - 287 Water St.
   For fresh, delicious pizza delivered right to your table, you can't beat Olive's Fresh Excelsior. Choose from one of their eclectic flavors or create your own. While you're there, don't forget to order a salad to share and grab a local craft beer on tap. Want to save a few bucks? Check out their twice-daily happy hour to enjoy $2 off beer and wine, 20% off bottles of wine, and a selection of happy hour appetizers. 

2. 318 Cafe - 318 Water St.
   Offering a truly unique experience, 318 Cafe is a coffee house during the day and a live-music listening room at night. It's located in a 100-year-old former lumber mill and offers a warm and welcoming environment you're sure to love. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner, then come back in the evening to kick back, relax, and listen to your favorite acoustic musical performances. 

3. Lago Tacos Excelsior - 30 Water St.
   When you're in the mood for creative tacos, delicious homemade sauces, and a refreshing Margarita, look no further than Lago Tacos. Here you'll find a larger-than-expected menu, streaming sports, live music, and a strong sense of community where everyone feels welcome. 

4. Red Bench Bakery - 284 Water St.
   Arguably one of the best places in Excelsior for a delicious sweet treat, family-owned Red Bench Bakery is the go-to spot for fresh-made French and American pastries, breads, and other desserts. They also serve soups, artisan sandwiches, and more. Located in a historic building two blocks from the lake, the bakery offers an open-air patio where you can sit for hours and enjoy observing the bustling lakefront community.

Do you want to learn even more about Excelsior and all the things there are to love about living here? Contact Homes by Joel. We're happy to show you around and help you find your dream home!