8 U.S. Cities That Are Perfect for Antique Hunters To Explore

From helping you save money to contributing to a more sustainable environment, thrift and antique stores are a great way to find some treasures and possibly tap into some extra income. Not every city is ideal for antiquing, but those that are hold a special place in our hearts.

Whether you’re on the hunt for something valuable or just looking to browse and score something cheap, here are the spots you don’t want to miss. From well-known flea markets, antique shows, and stores to the high volume of shops in the area, these cities are a perfect match.

Brimfield is thought of by many as the Antiques and Collectibles Capital of America. One of the town’s most sought-after vintage shopping experiences is the Brimfield Antique Show and Flea Market, which has been in operation since 1959 and is one of the largest outdoor flea markets in the country. They play host to over 5,000 vendors per year and often see over 1 million shoppers.

The market takes place in May, July, and September every year. Historically, the May show is the most busy and highly attended, while the July show is a little slower and much easier to navigate.

West Palm Beach is known for its Antique Row, which has more than 40 shops with antique and vintage goods for sale. You can find a great selection of 17th to 20th-century decor, fine art, and furniture if you look closely.

The great news about Antique Row is that it’s fed into quite handsomely by Billionaire Row, which is home to luxury houses, manicured lawns, and a lot of incredibly expensive items. Keep your eyes peeled for rare products, toys, and designer clothing.

For over 40 years, Springfield has hosted the Springfield Antique Show & Flea Market. It has up to 2,500 booths and merchants and is one of the largest flea markets in the United States. In operation nine times per year, you can find a variety of mid-century modern items, vintage quilts, jewelry, and more.

Another great option nearby is the Heart of Ohio Antique Center.

This cute town is hailed as the “Antiques Capital” of America. Adamstown is known for its antique district, which covers over seven miles with dozens of shops and thousands of dealers.

Top shops include Mad Hatter Antiques, Stoudt’s Black Angus Antique Mall, and Heritage Antique Center.

Sandwiched right between Nashville and Knoxville is Cookeville, the unsung hero of the antiquing world. The community is a popular retirement destination and attracts people from around the country with an array of collections and worthwhile pieces.

If you’re willing to travel about two hours north of New York City, you’ll find Millerton — a small town in upstate New York that has an array of antiquing options. Whether you’re looking for upscale clothing and cabinetry or expensive glass, there are plenty of options to spruce up your home.

The Millerton Antiques Center hosts 37 dealers and is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with shortened hours on Sundays (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

With its old-money feel, the state of Maine was bound to have some great antiquing opportunities. Wiscasset, in particular, is home to droves of fine china and 18th and 19th-century items like home decor and clothing. You’re likely to find quite a few valuable Native American artifacts to browse through, too.

Wiscasset Village Antiques, Wizard of Odds Antiques, Trifles, and Marston House Wiscasset are just a few locations to check out when you’re in the area.

Upstate New York is a gem for high-quality vintage finds. Since 1970, the Stormville Airport Flea Market has hosted over 600 antique mom n’ pop vendors six times per year.

Professional vendors, concessions, and collectibles can be found throughout.

As of 2023, there are over 13,000 antique stores in business in the United States. While thrift and secondhand shops continue to battle fast fashion and online marketplaces, they are often a great way to save more money in the long run. Plus, you get to add character to your space while giving the item a second (or third or fourth) life.