Browse unique homewares and gifts in a quaint farmhouse setting.

If you love the thrill of a good treasure hunt, then a visit to Schoolhouse Earth is in order! This quaint shop in western Maryland offers a bounty of goods and gifts for every occasion, as well as a free petting zoo. Whether you're shopping for the perfect present or want to spruce up your living room digs, this place is worth making the trip.

Located in Friendsville, Maryland, near Deep Creek Lake, the shop has an antique farmhouse feel that's brimming with homewares, knick-knacks, and other treasures you didn't know you needed. Let's just say you'll want to make time to browse because there is a lot to look at!

jewelry

Home goods range from kitchen accessories and art prints to whimsical garden decor featuring ceramic fairies and gnomes. They carry a wide variety of clothing for kids and adults, as well as eclectic accessories like jewelry and scarves. Bargain hunters would be remiss without checking out their Clearance Room, where loads of cool items are discounted between 20 and 60 percent off!

bird decor

If you need to stock your cupboard, they also sell consumables including artisanal condiments, soups, sauces, and more. Grab some savory marinade sauces for your next barbecue, or try one of their delicious cake mixes to bake at home. You can even enjoy free samples while you browse, which always rotate daily.

food

It may be summertime, but one of the store's highlights conjures the most wonderful time of the year—their Christmas showroom. Customers can enter a winter wonderland of stocking stuffers, tree-trimmings, and other holiday-themed goods to prepare for the seasons ahead. It's open year-round, but we recommend a visit during the holiday season for a magical time.

christmas

Once you've rung up your purchases (or, in our case, the entire store), swing by the complimentary petting zoo to visit their adorable animals—Their goats, chickens, and other critters will want to greet you, and you may not want to say goodbye!

goats

Schoolhouse Earth is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. You can find them on Facebook or their website, including a selection of items on their online store. Happy hunting!

**All photos courtesy of Schoolhouse Earth's Facebook page

Have you visited Schoolhouse Earth before, and if so, what did you think? Did you score any unique finds? Tell us about them in the comments!

Brianna Persons
Brianna is an Oregon native who made her home in the DMV over two years ago. She loves scouting out new restaurants and drooling over Van Gogh’s landscapes in the National Gallery’s East Building. When she isn’t writing for Our Community Now, she’s tackling short fiction and working her baking magic in the kitchen. She resides in Maryland with her husband Nick and their black cat Sable.
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