Top Cities for Vintage Shopping in the U.S.

Hunting for treasures at local vintage shops is one of the most sustainable and affordable ways to find meaningful keepsakes from your travels. The most unique finds can be scored at specialty antique shops and thrift stores. This guide highlights five of the best cities for vintage shopping in the US. Moreover, if you can’t travel to rummage in these stores right now, many have online shops to explore.

Greater Palm Springs, California

There’s more to Greater Palm Springs than Coachella Valley and Joshua Tree National Park. Since the area attracts a wide array of travelers, from festival-goers to snowbirds, you can expect to find all sorts of unique goodies at an array of vintage shops, markets, and over 15 antique malls throughout the region. Vintage shopping flourished here due to its popularity as a vacation spot in the 1950s, making it a treasure trove for nostalgia.

Consider visiting Angel View, where profits from the resale store benefit children and adults with disabilities. Several Angel View locations in the Coachella Valley offer a fantastic selection, with the best options found in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and La Quinta.

If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for treasure finding in Greater Palm Springs, head to Sunny Dunes Vintage Row. This neighborhood is dedicated to vintage shopping, where you can browse goods at the Sunny Dunes Antique Mall, Little Shop of Treasures, among others. Furthermore, if you’re in town on the first Sunday of the month from October to May, don’t miss the Palm Springs Vintage Market, featuring an endless selection of housewares, clothing, art, collectibles, vinyl records, and jewelry.

Providence, Rhode Island

With one of the top fashion design schools in the country, it’s no surprise that vintage shopping in Providence is excellent. The city is walkable, and most of the best vintage shops can be explored within a 2-mile radius of downtown, particularly near the Rhode Island School of Design. Shoppers can expect to find gently worn pieces and unique items crafted by local designers.

Carmen & Ginger stands out as one of the most popular vintage shops in the city. Located inside the historic Providence Arcade, visitors can find timepieces from bygone eras, including vintage clothing, magazines, and baubles.

The three floors of vintage goods at Nostalgia offer something for everyone. This antique haven is a co-op of over 200 vendors selling vintage clothing and knick-knacks. Additionally, you can even enjoy a tarot card or astrology reading between browsing the unique selections.

On Sundays, make sure to check out the female-owned Providence Flea, a year-round market that features a vibrant mix of vintage stalls, food trucks, live music, and much more. The Providence Flea is highly regarded as the best place to find vintage items in the city.

Seattle, Washington

If you’re road-tripping across the country and bargain hunting, a stop in Seattle is essential. The city’s thriving vintage shopping scene offers eclectic pieces at various vintage malls. Notably, the Fremont, Ballard, and Georgetown neighborhoods make it simple to visit multiple shops in a day while you score vintage clothing.

Your first stop should be the Fremont Vintage Mall. This maze features clothing, furniture, antiques, memorabilia, records, art, and more. Dig deep, and you might find a special treasure to take home.

For a unique shopping experience, visit the Georgetown Trailer Park Mall, where vintage goods overflow from old-school airstreams. Vendors offer music gear, glassware, and jewelry among other distinctive items.

If you’re searching for designer goods, try Lucky Vintage in the University District. This shop features a covetable collection of clothing and accessories for men, women, and children. Additionally, antique enthusiasts will enjoy an assortment of Victorian-era pieces dating back to the 1920s.

Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City boasts a plethora of vintage shopping areas, but the funkiest designs are found in Chicago’s vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood. The “six corners” area, at the intersection of Milwaukee, Damen, and North Avenues, features various vintage shops offering unusual jewelry, one-of-a-kind clothing, and vintage vinyl at Reckless Records.

For vintage couture pieces, The Vintage Underground offers an unrivaled collection of costume jewelry, accessories, and clothing from the Victorian era. Bridal dresses are available at a fraction of the retail price. Additionally, Ragstock features an assortment of vintage and upcycled fashion, catering to the latest trends.

Portland, Oregon

Find decor, clothing, furniture, and more at 50 vintage shops scattered throughout the city. Savvy shoppers love to explore the racks of vintage dresses that span decades in Portland. The city’s second-hand shopping scene is exceptional because each store boasts a frequently updated curated collection, guaranteeing something special with each visit. Portland’s sales tax-free status means you truly get the most for your money.

If you visit, make sure to stop by House of Vintage. This truly unique shopping experience features over 60 vendors with an array of items spread across 13,000 square feet. The focus is on clothing, shoes, and accessories from the 1920s to the 1990s. For a stunning collection of vintage dresses, head to Hattie’s Vintage Clothing.