Remember when the Velvet Mill in Stonington was an actual velvet mill?

Well, that mammoth building has developed an amazing new life as a site for countless shops and food sites and businesses. You can stop into Zest for pastries or Whitecrest Eatery for meals or Beer’d Brewing Co. for suds and more.

There are periodic special events, like the Christmas Craft & Vendor Fair boasting more than 70 vendors on Dec. 3 and 4.

Hours vary for different businesses within the Velvet Mill.

The Velvet Mill, 22 Bayview Ave., Stonington; thevelvetmill.com.