I was the best man for a wedding that included a reception at the Cider Gallery. Not only was the…read moreatmosphere and overall look of the gallery beautiful but also, the venue manager was a hard-working, level-headed individual. The surrounding art work adds to the beauty of this venue near one of the most popular streets in Lawrence, Mass St. Despite some post wedding drama, the manger was quick to act and competent in working to make the reception as memorable as possible. I would highly recommend this venue for business meetings, receptions, or just a casual day viewing some impressive art.

Beautiful gallery and attended an artist reception. The space is gorgeous--bright, clean, and very…read morewell laid out. It feels welcoming the moment you walk in, and the artwork is presented in a way that lets you really appreciate it. I only give it three stars because there was a live band and the music was so loud that it completely drowned out any meaningful conversation. The artist was trying to talk to patrons about the work, but you could barely hear them over the noise. For an art reception, I think the volume should be low enough to actually enjoy the experience--not overpower it. The other problem was the purchasing experience. When I wanted to buy a piece (which was priced at the kind of level where you're spending thousands), the process was oddly inconvenient. I had to stand in line at the bar, and while the staff was multitasking making me feel rushed and an inconvenience. It felt like hospitality and customer care took a back seat to everything else. I'd love to come back because the gallery itself is fantastic--but I hope they reconsider the noise level and make the buying process more focused and respectful for serious collectors.

What a lovely place! I recently took a bead making class here and it was thoroughly enjoyable from…read morestart to finish. It was difficult picking just one class because there were so many of them I wanted to take. Lawrence Arts Center has so much to offer all age groups. My class was a human hodge podge of ages and experience. The building is stunning. You are immediately taken in by the color collections and the great use of space and light of this building. Everywhere you look there is alluring and interesting artwork. Even the elevator interior is adorned with colorful sunflower art. This is a happy place, a very happy place. The classrooms are spacious and light. They have all sorts of cool equipment for the students to create their artwork. The instructors are all very knowledgeable and experienced in their craft. I was very impressed with the accommodations provided. There is ample parking and a parking garage is located across the street. There is no issue with access. All in all this is a terrific asset to the city. If you have some time on your hands and find yourself downtown, this is the place to be!

I'm not a particularly artistic person, but we stopped in here on our trip to Lawrence. I was very…read moreimpressed with the building, sleek and clean. I was also impressed by the sheer number of programs they boast here from theater and singing, metal working, pressing, painting, sculpture, etc. Many of these can be seen on display in the galleries about the building. They also have early school and learning centers attached. It makes for a very cool place for the arts crowd to gather.

Mass Street is full of shops & boutiques in which to stop and part with some of your hard-earned…read moremoney, and Wonder Fair is no different. Well, actually it is, because it's full of cool stuff. Think gift shop + art shop + boutique curio, and maybe that *starts* to describe the space. There are plenty of keepsakes, art supplies, and gift ideas that will run your tab up very quickly. It's all good stuff, mind you, but it's almost like they should have an "I'll take one of everything package". The front of the store is mostly boutique-ish and has a small up and downstairs. You can find gifts for just about anyone, and this is the kind of place where you can stuff stockings or get something unique for that special someone. If you need ideas, then ask one of the staff who are always willing to help. If you need specifics in the art department, then there is a station in the back to help you with various items such as paper types or other supplies. The unique nature of some of the items leads to perhaps some higher prices, but the value is spot on. You're finding gifts, not clipping coupons, so enjoy and shop a little. For everything that you think might be marked a little high, just remind yourself that you probably aren't going to find that in very many other places. And that's the fun of shopping: just browsing when you have the time and maybe the resources, looking at things that you didn't know you were going to find, and in this case, helping a great small business thrive.

This is my kids' favorite store when we visit Lawrence. Mainly to visit the shop cat Dave, but also…read morefor the fun craft options upstairs or sticker selections in the back of the store. They also have the haunted bathroom which is fun although I have to say I've never experienced it. If you need a new shop for unique gifts you should definitely check it out.

I held off for a bit on writing a review and then remembered this place after being in Lawrence…read morelast weekend. When I first came to this place, the owner was there and he was the nicest guy. We talked for quite a long time about different things. I ended up buying some goodies and left happy. That was about 4 years ago or so. Fast forward to 2018 when my sister was visiting from Texas and I was taking her to my favorite spots. I remembered my great experience from before so I took her here. This time, a lady was there and I mentioned how much I loved that store and turns out she's the wife of the owner (so she's the co-owner)... I was looking at some pillowcases and the pair was marked at $18 which I thought was a decent deal. A little high since other places go for less but I like supporting local so I don't mind. When I went up to the counter, she informed me that even though one pillowcase was marked for $18, it was for each.. so I was surprised the total was $36. The lady was rather rude and when I was pulling my card out to pay she said, "We are a cash only business and if you had been here before, you would know that'. I won't return. I can't deal with people who are just lousy at customer service. She could have said, "Oh I am sorry, we only accept cash" but instead, she chose to be a jerk. Of course, my sister was like, "Wow, and you said this place was awesome; guess not". It's always a sad thing when you rave about how great a place is then when you take someone new, the place ends up being subpar. I left that store feeling sad and for my money, I would rather go down the street to the many other antique stores. *SIDE NOTE* I wish I could give the man I saw the first time 5 stars because he was tops.

They've got quite a hodgepodge here. Old photographs, knickknacks, classic pinup playing cards, old…read moregloves (but most are way small), boots (way small also), etc. Personally I dig the collection at antique mall a little better, but it might be worth a look.

Cute store that sells the Flax line, a sophisticated yet comfortable womens clothing line…read more Reminiscent of CP Shades, but more fitted and stronger fabrics. They also had a bead bar where you could build your own jewelry and a jewelry case for those less creative. A bit dark and cool inside the store, dim lighting and the rich rust colored walls didn't help. I'm a bit too young to shop there seriously, but did like a few pieces on the racks. Might have to go back to see what I can make from beads