I've been dealing with Paul and Theresa at Spare Time since 1976. I used to go more often when I lived closer. Paul is a big supporter of the hobby and donated a bunch of kits to our contest, even though we are 70 miles away.
War and Pieces was a good place. I first went there in maybe 1977 when they were a hole in the wall in Mancheter CT. I was there regularly when they were in West Hartford. On the good side, they'd keep some of the new releases in a special area with the shrink wrap removed so you could check out the kit before buying. For many years, they had two big annual sales tied in with a downtown promotion. Unfortunately, in the last few years, they seemed to have lost their focus, too many battle barbies and die casts.
Another good shop with a long history is Craftec in East Windsor CT. Great selection of armor and aircraft, with a bunch of collectible stuff behind the counter. The staff are all builders and know their stuff.
My closest LHS is Pioneer Valley in West Springfield. Not the biggest selection, but Dennis can special order stuff and have it in the tore in a matter of days. He, too, supports the club/contest with a very generous cacsh donation each year.