Meyer Home and Hardware opened in 1935 and for many years it was the place to buy a hammer and nails in Petoskey. But as big-box chains like Lowe's and Home Depot siphoned business away from independently owned hardware stores, the Meyer family realized it would have to change. (One transition: becoming part of the Ace franchise, though there is nothing "chain" about Meyer.) You can still buy the basics here -- garden rakes, hoses, light bulbs, screws -- but the front section of the store now features an impressive array of kitchen gadgets, home products and dime store knickknacks. Prices are more affordable here than at other Gaslight District gift shops, and the selection is great. (For a bit of local color, check out the canning section, with old-fashioned apple peelers, food mills and more. You know you're in Michigan fruit country when cherry pitters are a hardware store staple.) Even if you don't buy anything, Meyer is worth a stop for the sheer pleasure of seeing a 75-year-old business thriving in the 21st century.