The Absolute Best Shops To Go Antiquing Across America

Avid shoppers know there's nothing like the thrill of the chase. Finding that diamond in the rough can feel like winning a gold medal, especially when you're at an antique store. Just ask anyone who has found an unexpected treasure from a bygone era or emerged victorious after unearthing a long-sought-after item. From old books and magazines to stunning jewelry and furnishings, there are fascinating items from yesteryear at antique stores throughout the United States. There's also a certain satisfaction involved in knowing you're giving a new lease on life to a well-loved item. Its history may even be a mystery to you, only adding to its appeal.

Shopping at antique stores can indeed be exciting — provided you're visiting destinations that have a worthwhile selection. While nearly every one has something to offer, it's equally true that others are considerably more impressive. America happens to be home to some of the most iconic antique stores in the world. They may vary in size and merchandise offerings, but all provide a considerably deep assortment of period pieces across all categories. From fashion and accessories that instantly transport you to the Roaring Twenties and magazines that once sat on a family's coffee table in the 1950s to musical instruments, sports memorabilia, and various ephemera, there's no dearth of intriguing discoveries at U.S. antique stores.

Narrowing it down could be tricky given their sheer number. To make it easier, we've selected a few shops that avid antique-hunters consider some of the best, both for selection and ambiance.

As the largest antique mall in the nation, Verona's Factory Antique Mall is a Virginia highlight for people who love reclaimed treasures. It spans more than 150,000 square feet, making it a true behemoth of the antique shopping world. Originally a clothing factory, this massive space was transformed into a treasure hunter's paradise in 1996. It contains pieces from some 200+ dealers spanning every category imaginable. Whether you're searching for 19^th-century furniture, rare artwork, or quirky mid-century décor, you will likely find what you have in mind.

In addition to its excellent reputation among collectors, the Factory Antique Mall also happens to be a Hollywood favorite. Its antiques have been used to set the scene in major productions like the feature film "Lincoln," AMC series "Turn," Amazon show "The Underground Railroad," and PBS' "Mercy Street." It speaks volumes of the store's authenticity, making it a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the silver or small screen, history, or a combination of the two!

Even if you're on a budget, you won't necessarily walk out emptyhanded: A Google reviewer noted, "Lots to look at tons of descent deals always worth the trip." From affordable vintage trinkets to statement pieces that serve as focal points in your home, this spacious mall has it all. Plus, it boasts a prime location in the Shenandoah Valley, making it an excellent stop during a day trip.

The area known as "Antiques Capital USA" undeniably lives up to its name. Spanning about 7 miles along Route 272 in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the corridor is widely regarded as one of the best antiquing destinations in the country. With more than 1,000 dealers spread across dozens of shops and flea markets, this is a true mecca for vintage enthusiasts and collectors.

The area's reputation dates back to the 1960s, when a local dealer invited area vendors to sell their goods outside. The venture's popularity soared, eventually leading to a more permanent fixture. Additional shops and markets sprang up, transforming Adamstown into the bustling antique destination that it is today. There are many must-visit spots along the stretch worth a visit, including popular Renninger's Antique Market. A number of indoor booths offer everything from war memorabilia and jewelry to musical instruments and grandfather clocks. The market also sells outdoors on Sundays when dealers stack their tables with exceptional deals.

A single day isn't really enough time to see everything in Antiques Capital USA. After all, the area is home to several larger spots like Renninger's in addition to smaller markets and co-ops. If you're in town during summer, business picks up even more as many sellers take their wares outside. Luckily, Adamstown has many hotels within the vicinity. Why not consider taking a Pennsylvania road trip to this beloved antique destination?

With its over 175 dealers specializing in antique goods, Snohomish easily earns its stellar reputation as the "Antique Capital of the Northwest." It's no surprise that it's a popular stop on road trips from Seattle to Banff, Alberta. The historic Washington town is truly vintage in every sense of the word, with buildings dating back over 150 years and all kinds of stalls and shops offering specialty items from yesteryear. Among the highlights are those on First Street in the Historic Downtown District. The Star Center Antique Mall is home to 200 dealers, while the Antique Station at Victoria Village is a vast space featuring everything from toys and artwork to musical instruments and clothes.

It may be challenging to decide which shop to visit first. A good strategy is to head to one of the larger antique malls, where a mix of vendors sell a little bit of everything. There are also many smaller specialty stores situated throughout Snohomish's antique district, like Annie's on First (known for its vintage finds for the home) and Troybeck Antiques (offering everything from Native American treasures to pottery and colorful advertising from decades past).

Snohomish also hosts seasonal and themed antique markets at different times of the year, a particular draw for collectors who have specific interests. The Tailgate and Antique Show at Craven Farm, for example, features only items from the mid 1970s or earlier, while the annual classic car show is a must for enthusiasts who love old vehicles.

Spread out over 14,000 square feet on two floors, The PAST Antiques Market and Museum is located in Nature's Art Village in Montville, Connecticut. The destination features everything — one of the best amusements park in the Northeast, a museum, dining options, and, as it happens, some of the most incredible antique shopping in the state.

The PAST Antiques Market and Museum is chockablock with heritage finds that are sure to thrill treasure seekers. From classic comic books and dinnerware to furnishings and rare coins, the shop is home to over 90 dealers. Wandering from one booth to another is like paradise for antiques lovers — and prices run the gamut, from stuffed animals and posters costing just a few dollars to artwork for considerably more. 

The location is a pleasure to browse, with shoppers noting that it's far more put together than the average antique store. "It is a multi dealer shop and all the booths are neat and clean," shared a Google reviewer. Others rave about the rarity of their finds. "Everything under one roof. And in the basement and even outdoors," wrote a second reviewer. "Things you thought you'd never see."

Granny's Attic is an award-winning antique shop in Temecula, CA. Since 1989, it has been an area institution among collectors and treasure hunters seeking exquisite finds from bygone eras. With more than 200 dealers filling the vast 30,000-square-foot space, the shop offers an ever-changing inventory of vintage furnishings, retro home décor, and rare collectibles, among so many other notable items. Whether you're searching for Depression-era glassware or something quirky, Granny's Attic won't disappoint with its vast selection.

One of the more charming touches that sets the establishment apart is its old-fashioned candy counter. Stop by to indulge in some nostalgic sweets while you browse. There's even an on-site soda shoppe, adding to the store's inviting, back-in-time feel. It's a very well-organized store, too, making it easy to browse through the many sections.

Granny's Attic is a must-visit even for those who are just passing through Temecula's wine country. It's the biggest antique mall in the entire region, and routinely earns rave reviews for its selection of treasures. A shopper shared on Yelp, "There were so many wonderful items to buy and I scored quite a bit of bargains." A Google reviewer attested to the store's popularity. "Walking into Grannys Attic is soothing for the soul! You will always find something here, for gifts, for home decor, for projects, for plants, for memories. Antique therapy is a thing! And Granny's Attic is the place to get it!!."

The widely beloved GasLamp Antiques has earned a solid reputation for many reasons. It is the largest store of its kind in Nashville, home to over 300 booths. While the shop carries an extensive range of products across all categories, GasLamp Antiques is especially known for its décor. Whether you're renovating your home or looking for that one unique accent piece to lend a room some extra character, you may just find it in the vast mix of Hollywood Regency, mid-century modern, Art Deco, or other genres on display.

Furniture is one of the larger selections, with beautiful chairs, curio cabinets, mirrors, bar carts, and other pieces situated throughout the shop. Sculptures also abound, from smaller creations to more substantial pieces that might look at home in an entryway or hallway. There are also paintings and glasswork available. If you're a collector, prepare to be delighted — you'll find it all. Typewriters from yesteryear, exquisite dishware, delicate home accents, and so much more are all available at any given time. Jewelry, too, is a major draw. The store sells stunning pieces dating back decades, ranging from aged brooches to sparkling rings.

GasLamp also sells many of its unique products on its website. It's easy to browse through different categories to find a treasure — although nothing can replace the in-person experience. "Awesome awesome antique store yes excellent stuff high-end items what are the amazing selection they have not only that they're so friendly," gushed a Google reviewer.

If you happen to be in Galena, Illinois, it's worth a stop at Peace of the Past. The retailer truly lives up to its name, offering an enormous selection of vintage items through its two stores. Both are located on Main Street, and under 10 minutes by foot from each another.

The stores carry an impressive collection of more than 50,000 used books — and these many volumes are truly the stars of the show. Shelves featuring all sorts of works fill the store, lending it the charming effect of an old-fashioned book shop. Locals in particular will appreciate the shelves upon shelves of books focused on area history. Equally impressive is Peace of the Past's selection of vintage advertising. Familiar logos adorn everything from thermometers to wooden shipping crates. Along with these items are other common antique store finds, like old records and dazzling jewelry from the past.

Visitors have awarded Peace of the Past high marks across the board. "Upon entering the store, you are hit with the pleasant smell of wood," wrote a Google reviewer. "Could spend all day here looking at the little trinkets and old books." Another Google reviewer was wowed by the broad selection of items: "We could have spent hours in these locations! So many fun things collected by these curators."

Highly regarded in antiquing circles and an area favorite for 30 years, the diverse Millerton Antiques Center in Millerton, New York, has pieces ranging from the classic to the eclectic. The antique outpost is truly a must-see spot for those who appreciate shopping for their old-world objects in a cozy environment. The store is home to 37 dealers, offering a broad selection of specialty items including housewares, artwork, gifts, furnishings, jewelry, and so much more.

Millerton Antiques Center fits in nicely in Millerton, a scenic upstate New York village filled with charming antique shops. Like many antique shops, there's an appealing hodgepodge quality about it. It's part of the space's inherent attraction — it's warm and inviting, with virtually every section devoted to something antiquated and well-loved. 

Dealers love the business as much as antiques enthusiasts, one of the store's owner, Bob Murphy, explained to Main Street Magazine. "We operate differently from most antiques centers in that we don't charge our dealers a commission." They shared that the ambiance is a big part of the store's appeal — along with the consistent selection of "new" old products. "There's a large variety of items – from early American to mid-century, from paintings to textiles and rugs, from vintage books and toys to vintage jewelry, and from ephemera to vinyl records."

Spread over 45,000 square feet, the Williamsburg Antique Mall is one of the most frequented spots for vintage shopping in the famed historic town in Virginia popular with couples. Home to more than 300 dealers, the mall is especially known for its incredibly vast selection of collectibles. It's carefully laid out — and although the shop representatives share there is "no rhyme or reason" to the way the store is set up, there is a sense of organized chaos about it.

No matter your antiques of choice, you'll find an impressive selection at this mall packed with finds. Furniture, glassware, jewelry, home décor, seasonal items, sports memorabilia, toys, comic books, coins, clothes, and much more are all available for the taking — and given the size of the space and volume of offerings, it's worth carving some time out of your day. If you can't make it in person, you can visit the website to browse products across a variety of categories.

The mall is beloved by both locals and visitors alike. There's even an on-site café where shoppers can take a little break before continuing with their treasure hunt. A Yelp reviewer wrote, "What a tremendous experience. What a great selection of unique and timeless products. The service was excellent in finding a rare jewelry bracelet we were looking for."

For those in the know, a visit to New Orleans may call for a stop at the legendary M.S. Rau Antiques. Since its doors opened in 1912, it's been one of the best sources in the nation for fine art, jewelry, and other vintage discoveries. Spread across 40,000 square feet, the merchandise is truly distinctive, with items from the likes of Tiffany & Co., Claude Monet, René Lalique, and Louis Comfort Tiffany on display.

Over the decades, the shop has acquired many notable pieces — including a Winston Churchill painting, a Vincent van Gogh still life, and a pair of opera glasses that President Abraham Lincoln used on the night that he was assassinated at Ford's Theater in 1865. These are just a few of the stunning highlights that lend the shop its reputation as one of the nation's finest. Aesthetically, it differs dramatically from its counterparts. It's a lot like a gallery, with items cleanly on display across its floors. Lit by chandeliers and spotlights, the effect is decidedly more sophisticated and less chaotic.

Antiques enthusiasts truly love the gallery, offering high praise for just about everything. "Amazing antiques, jewellery, furnture, etc. Take 30 minutes and make sure you visit. Simply beautful items on display!" exclaimed a Tripadvisor reviewer. Another visitor advised on Tripadvisor, "Go to experience the best the world has to offer." Naturally, "the best" doesn't come cheap — but visitors note that even a walk through the premises is an experience!