Lawrence’s Massachusetts Street is renowned for its independent spirit, vibrant arts scene, and eclectic mix of local businesses. According to Eater and Midwest Living, the area boasts standout indie restaurants, craft coffee shops, and unique boutiques — all within a walkable, historic downtown. Don’t miss the locally owned Raven Book Store or the Free State Brewing Company, one of the Midwest’s original microbreweries. Lawrence’s creative energy and community-focused ethos make it a perennial favorite for day-trippers.
Tins of variety of stores from boutiques to antique malls to sport stores, and plenty of bars. Had a great time, be sure to spend a day there if ever visiting the area.
Armita Z
Google
Lawrence is a beautiful college town. Downtown is small but it has many local and unique shops. It also has amazing restaurants. Great place to shop and eat. Parking has never been an issue. You can easily find a place to park.
Illinois Sm
Google
Lawrence downtown is so relaxing. Wonderful place to spend your afternoon by yourself, your family, friends or your dogs. Safe and no worries. Lovely flowers, plenty to seat.
You will notice good amount of homeless and begger, it will be great is Lawrence have a safe place and solution, they need help. Thank you!
Alex Curnes
Google
Downtown Lawrence is fun and unique, but the parking is a nightmare. You would be far better off planning time to park on one end of Massachusetts Street or the other, and planning to walk to your destination then you would be trying to find a spot near the shop or restaurant you are driving to. Local tip - there are many free parking lots located behind the main buildings on Massachusetts Street that are free for several hours. A lot of the shops and restaurants have rear doors as well as their main entrance so that you can go through the back.
Valerie Zell
Google
Don't ever purchase a Downtown Lawrence gift card as a gift for someone. My daughter received one and went to use it, having received it a year or two ago. There was no balance on the card because of a $3.00 monthly inactivity fee. Of course, this is posted on the back of the card after its removed from the holder--where it isn't mentioned or listed. I know the card's buyer wasn't aware of this at all--very deceptive business practice.
Pete Romano
Google
I love our downtown
Steve Z
Google
Ran tge Shamrock Shuffle great time. Homeless in Lawrence is VERY BAD!!!! BE CAREFUL!!!!
Pat Matthews
Google
La Prima Tazza coffee shop....Next to Free State Brewery. Green stone coffees best. Good Barista"s. Andrew's the master, Murry,Holly, Paige, Danelle their all good folks. 25yrs and counting.pat.