The best US cities for antique shopping
The interior design world might be quick-moving and constantly evolving, but the authentic originality of antiques is perpetual. Designers across the country have long relied on antiques to adorn their clients’ homes (and of course, their own), forever on the hunt for that perfect piece to complete a space and add the character that no new piece can replicate.
In a bid to find out the best destinations for old treasures in the United States, I asked interior designers from across the country for their all-time favorite stores and go-to cities for antique shopping. Whether you decorate with antiques already and want to expand your list of haunts, or you want to give collecting a try for the first time, these are the best places to shop for antiques.
Long loved for their collectable and timeless qualities, antiques are one of the rare things that only get better with age. So, no matter your location, this list of the best cities designers swear by for antique shopping will ensure you never leave a store empty-handed.
This list is vast, so you can jump to the best cities to shop for antiques depending on your region, too, whether you live in the Northeast, the Midwest, the West, or the South.
Northeast
Bucks County, Pennsylvania
Jen Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors heads to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia when she’s looking for antique treasures. This living room is an example of the pieces she’s sourced.
(Image credit: Photography: Studio Nicholas Venezia)
Sharing some of the antiques you should be collecting, interior designer Jen Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors says she always heads to Bucks County when she’s on the hunt for a gem. ‘In the Northeast, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, conveniently positioned between Philadelphia and Manhattan, is an underrated haven for collectors.’
She adds, ‘I like Stenella Antiques for heirloom-quality furnishings with polish, and Architectural Antiques for salvaged pieces rich with patina and provenance. Alderfer’s Auctions is a great source, with rotating collections running the gamut of design styles. It’s where I found one of my most beloved pieces: a 19th-century folding chair attributed to George Hunzinger (pictured above). Beautifully crafted and full of history, with a folding design that makes it as practical as it is attractive, something I value in every home.’
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Whether you’re looking to embrace vintage furniture trends or you’re on the hunt for the perfect vintage fabric, Alexis Oliver, Director at Meyer Davis, says she always heads to the town of New Hope for preloved gems.
She says, ‘Set along the Delaware River, New Hope and its twin town Lambertville are steeped in Pennsylvania German traditions.’ Perfect for channeling folk decor ideas, Alexis says, ‘Painted chests and cupboards, heirloom quilts, and sturdy farmhouse furniture tell the story of 18th‑century German immigrant craftsmanship. The area’s antique scene spans rustic folk art to refined Americana, reflecting its history as a river trading hub and its ongoing appeal to collectors and designers. The riverside setting and historic architecture add to the romance of the hunt.’
Kensington, Maryland
Whether you’re starting an antiques collection or want to visit a local store to find the perfect centerpiece, it’s worth considering Kensington. Situated in the state of Maryland, it’s a welcoming town that features a designated street just for vintage and antique stores.
Regan Billingsley, principal designer of Regan Billingsley Interiors, says ‘Antique Row in Kensington, MD has several terrific stores. Here’s my idea of a perfect afternoon shopping the area: Start with a boost of caffeine at Karlee’s Deli & Market. Then head over to the Antique Row, where you’ll find a mix of genres in the furniture stores, allowing you to select pieces from various decades and aesthetic styles to create a lived-in and curated look.’
She adds, ‘Our favorite shops are Modern Mobler for mid-century modern, Goldsborough Glynn for traditional antiques, and Sally Shaffer Antiques for a more rustic vibe. The inventory changes regularly, so there is always something new to discover. Many times, visits to these shops have inspired me to embrace a “more is more” aesthetic in my own home.’
‘Antique Row also shines in the accessory department. When I’ve wanted to add to my silver collection or find just the right paperweight to keep a stack of papers tidy, I browse the maze of shops in Antique Village for glassware, silver, and the offbeat vintage accessory.’
Washington, DC
Designer Darlene Molnar sourced a brass table (beside the leather chair), salvaged from the Ritz Hotel in Paris during a renovation. The antique mirror over the fireplace is circa 1850.
(Image credit: Interior design by Darlene Molnar, styling by Limonata Creative, photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg)
‘As a Washington-DC interior designer, I tend to pass through the city’s historic, upscale Georgetown neighborhood often,’ says Darlene Molnar, Interior Designer at Darlene Molnar LLC, ‘stopping by Pillar & Post is always a treat.’
‘The shop specializes in British antiques, which the owner personally selects on regular buying trips. The shop itself is lovely and the pieces are carefully selected, each with its own unique charm and storied history.’
Referring to the antique finds she sourced in Washington, pictured in the living room above, Darlene says, ‘The brass table beside the leather chair was salvaged from the Ritz Hotel in Paris during a renovation. The antique mirror over the fireplace is circa 1850.’
Long Island City, New York
For this designer show house project in New Jersey, designer and gallerist James Yarosh incorporated period antiques, including a pair of 18th-century Empire gilt-and-green lacquered chairs, a 300-year-old tapestry that serves as the floor’s centerpiece, and a folded Russian Neoclassic game table.
(Image credit: Blairsden Mansion Design by James Yarosh | Photos by Patricia Burke)
James Yarosh, Interior Designer and Gallerist of James Yarosh Associates, enjoys decorating with antique textiles and relies on one particular store in Long Island City to source vintage rugs of all descriptions.
James says, ‘I’ve been working with Rug & Kilim’s founder, Josh Nazmiyal, for ten years now. He is a visionary and curates the most beautiful collection of vintage and antique rugs of all varieties. Sourcing Rug & Kilim products helps me to blur timelines and tell a story through my designs.’
It’s not just rugs that James heads to Long Island City for; plenty of other antiques can be sourced in the city. ‘You can find some truly unusual and dramatic antique and vintage pieces at Newell Antiques. Many of their pieces are even used for movie sets to create an authentic representation of a particular era. A place like Newell Antiques is helpful if you’re looking for a few key statement pieces to build a space around.’
Hudson, New York
When I asked the designers their go-to haunts, many mentioned the city of Hudson, New York. Liz said, ‘I also love antiquing in Hudson, where there are an abundant number of dealers who specialize in every period as well. In addition, there are great restaurants and places to stay.’
Jade Joyner, principal designer for interior design firm Metal + Petal says, ‘Hudson gives you that crisp, curated mix of American primitives, European pieces, and a contemporary eye. It’s where I go when I want something truly special.’
Sharing her favorite finds that embrace antique trends, Jade says, ‘My best finds are a 19th-century taxidermy peacock and hand-painted French bistro chairs.’
Alexis shared a similar experience, naming Hudson as the perfect place to source antiques from all over Europe. ‘A former whaling port turned design destination, Hudson has evolved into one of the Northeast’s most sophisticated antique hubs. While you’ll still find Hudson River Valley Dutch Colonial furniture and heritage pieces, the town is equally known for mid‑century modern icons, sculptural lighting, and European antiques sourced by New York–connected dealers. This fusion of heritage and cutting‑edge vintage makes Hudson ideal for projects that balance tradition and modernity.’
North Fork, New York
Interior Designer Alfredo Paredes swears by the antique stores of North Fork, Long Island.
He says, ‘My Shelter Island home was full of antique and flea-market finds, many of which are from Beall & Bell out on the North Fork. The shop sells a vast collection of mid-century modern, American, French, and English antiques, furnishings, and industrial pieces that bring character and a sense of history into any space.’
Perfect for creating a transitional design, Beall & Bell stocks a multitude of pieces from several eras. Whether it’s a wicker chair or a set of apothecary drawers, it’s easy to mix and match styles with their selection.
Providence, Rhode Island
(Image credit: Future)
If you’re looking to fuse the old and new by incorporating midcentury modern ideas into the home, then you might want to head over to Providence, as interior designer Ahmad AbouZanat swears by one store in particular for sourcing retro pieces.
He says, ‘For vintage shopping and mostly midcentury modern, my go-to is a shop in Providence, Rhode Island, called Good Dog Antiques. They offer a variety of products, all in really good condition, and they also curate great art pieces.’
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Interior designer Liz Caan says, ‘I love antiquing anywhere I go, but especially in The Berkshires. Two of my children went to school there, so I was always looking for treasures on my trips. Great Barrington, Lenox, and Sheffield have loads of great shops and amazing dealers.’
Alexis agrees. ‘A compelling antidote to trend‑driven sourcing, the Berkshires offer a well‑balanced antiques ecosystem featuring classic New England Colonial and Federal‑period craftsmanship, Arts & Crafts movement pieces such as Mission‑style and rustic Adirondack furniture, and character‑rich folk finds. The mix of refined forms and well‑loved patina speaks to a deep respect for craftsmanship and history.’
‘You’ll also encounter period silver and glassware, tavern‑style furnishings, and weathered architectural salvage ideal for layered, collected interiors.’
Brimfield, Massachusetts
If you’re a frequenter of an antique fair, you would’ve undoubtedly heard of Brimfield. Located in a small New England town in Massachusetts, the famous antiques fair takes place three times a year and is always filled with gems.
Antique expert and store owner, Elizabeth Stuart of Elizabeth Stuart Antiques, says, ‘One of my favorite things of all time is a flea market, whether it’s Brimfield, Round Top, or a tiny market in a small town. The sun’s not up yet, the coffee is hot, and the hunt is on.’
‘Brimfield is such a mix of everything; your eyes have to be very, very sharp. There are treasures everywhere, often buried in the mundane. Cars roll in to set up throughout the day, piled high, causing you to turn your neck in anticipation. There’s nothing like it! Bring your crossbody bag… game on.’
Midwest
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
(Image credit: Future)
Megan Schultz, designer at Stone House Collective, says, ‘As a designer with a soft spot for all things antique, I live for the thrill of finding pieces with history. Wisconsin has no shortage of great antique spots, but the real magic often happens at flea markets, where the hunt is half the fun. Flea markets offer the widest variety of items at negotiable prices, and due to vendors often coming from all over, you’re more likely to find truly unique pieces than in any single store.’
Sharing her flea market favorites, Megan says, ‘Elkhorn Flea Market is an all-day treasure hunt with endless variety. This place really has something for everyone! I’ve found everything from clawfoot tables to salvaged solid oak doors. Similarly, St. Mary of the Hill Flea Market is a charming flea in a beautiful location – picture yourself scoring an antique Persian rug while underneath the shade of huge pine trees!’
She adds, ‘When it’s not flea season, the next best thing is spending a day hitting up Milwaukee’s wide array of amazing antique stores. My favorite is Antiques on Pierce, which has over three floors of treasures from 200+ dealers. When I want to spend my day antiquing, I go here first! I especially love going in December to stock up on vintage ornaments!’
Megan also names Riverview Antique Market. She says, ‘This place has three floors of finds. I especially love their antique hardware and salvage items, from antique handmade tiles to mantles.’
West
Pasadena, California
If you’re a Californian resident, it might be worth heading over to the coastal regions of Pasadena and Long Beach, as vintage expert and CEO of Tropical Sun Rattan, Harvey G. Schwartz, swears by the local swap meets that take place here.
Harvey meticulously sources vintage items and antiques from across the globe, stocking his finds in his own store, so he knows his stuff. He said, ‘On the West Coast, some of my favorite spots are the once-a-month Swap Meets at Pasadena City College, The Rosebowl, and in Long Beach. Otherwise, I like to do my shopping at auctions. But, you have to know what you’re looking at and looking for at auctions because impulse buying at an auction will decimate your dough.’
South
New Orleans
Tara Shaw’s antique store is located in New Orleans. You can tell it’s a store filled with gems when you look at her home office, which is filled with a variety of antique treasures, such as a midcentury lounge chair styled beside a Florentine-style table and dresser.
(Image credit: Tara Shaw)
Not only is the architecture of New Orleans something out of a fairytale, so are the antique stores. Interior designer Kara Childress shares her love of the city and her all-time favorite haunt for sourcing preloved treasures.
She says, ‘I’ve always been drawn to antiques that tell a story, pieces with a little patina, a sense of age, and that storied beauty you simply can’t fake. One of my favorite places to treasure hunt is New Orleans.’
‘Tara Shaw Antiques is full of refined European pieces that feel effortlessly collected and timeless. Every visit sparks ideas for how I can make a home feel more layered and lived-in. You truly never know what you’ll find, which is half the fun!’
Round Top, Texas
If you’re planning to attend an antique fair, you may want to add Round Top to your list. It’s one of the best-known flea markets in the country due to both its size and its contents, filled with every type of gem you can think of.
Interior designer Kristen Mullen says, ‘My absolute favorite place to shop for antiques in the States is in Round Top, Texas. It’s a tiny town, population 87, in the heart of Texas where every spring and fall for two weeks the town and all of its surroundings are blanketed with antique dealers from all over the country and Europe. It’s best to check dates before you plan a trip, but the experience is an antique lover’s dream.’
Ahmad agrees. ‘Roundtop in Texas is definitely a destination for both Antiques and Vintage pieces. There are 2 annual shows, the Fall and Spring, and it’s become a destination as the show is really well curated and there are always great finds there.’
Houston, Texas
If you’re a Texas resident, count yourself lucky, as there are plenty of cities that interior designers love to head to for antique shopping. Houston is another destination that’s often visited for its one-of-a-kind vintage stores, Kara explains.
‘Houston has some incredible sources too. Chateau Domingue is endlessly inspiring! Ruth Gay offers a world of reclaimed architectural elements, from centuries-old stone to mineral plasters and lime washes that add so much texture and soul. FOUND is another go-to. Ruth Davis has such a great eye, and her mix of sculptural furniture, antiques, and unexpected contemporary art always feels fresh and full of personality.’
Atlanta, Georgia
More than one designer praised Atlanta for its sheer selection. From its monthly antique market to its many long-established stores, it’s not hard to find a treasure or two in the big city.
Kristin says, ‘If you are more interested in a city where antique shopping is year-round, it is very hard to beat Atlanta. It has so many wonderful dealers! Furthermore, the second weekend every month sees the Scott Antique Market, where many of these dealers and more from the area present their wares in wonderfully shoppable booths.’
Sarah Eilers of Lucas & Eilers Design Associates says, ‘I’ve always believed that the most welcoming spaces are those that feel layered and personal, and antiques play an integral role in achieving that balance. They bring a sense of history, scale, and craftsmanship that adds character to a home.’
Sharing a range of her favorite stores in Atlanta, Sarah says, ‘Atlanta is one of my favorite cities to source. Shops like Foxglove Antiques, Dearing Antiques, and William Word Fine Antiques offer an incredible range of European finds, in particular English pieces and decorative accents. A. Tyner Antiques is another lovely spot. Their collection is beautifully edited, with pieces that feel both timeless and refined.’
Savannah, Georgia
Atlanta is filled with gems, but fear not if you’re not nearby, Savannah is much-loved for its antique stores, too.
Jen says, ‘Savannah, Georgia, is a treasure trove for vintage and antique finds. It’s layered with Southern charm and an appreciation for the past, and the best shops are spiked with a pinch of quirkiness.’
Sharing her favorites, she says, ‘My go-to sources include Tapley’s Mercantile, where there are always some fun surprises, like a ballerina pedestal that I passed up but still think about frequently. It’s those ‘ones that got away’ that teach you to trust your gut and act fast when something resonates. Clutter is another favorite, where eclectic finds are thoughtfully styled and full of personality.’
Charleston, South Carolina
(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)
The neighborhood of Charleston is renowned for its antique stores, so it’s no surprise that more than one designer mentioned the South Carolinian city.
Jade says, ‘Charleston is a dream for Southern antiques with European flair. The historic homes here fuel the city’s reverence for craftsmanship and patina. One of my best finds is a pair of 19th-century French gilt mirrors and a petite Turkish Oushak runner with the most delicate lavender threads.’ She adds, ‘My favorite shops are Terrace Oaks Antiques and the hidden corners of Antiques of South Windermere.’
A Charleston local and founder of Barrow Interiors, Suzanne Barrow, says her favorite store is also Antiques of South Windermere. ‘If you really want to find treasures that came from some of Charleston’s finest generations and stories past, head to Antiques of South Windermere or their sister store, 17 South Antiques. They are family-owned and have been a staple in the Charleston community for over 30 years.’
She explains, ‘You will find everything from timeless heirloom pieces, vintage maps, high-end China and silverware, fine art, and the highest quality furniture from the 18th Century to mid-century modern sourced from downtown historic Charleston, up and down the East Coast, to all over Europe. We recently scored a stunning antique Burl Wood chest and an 18th Century English Mahogany Secretary for one of our project’s entry and dining area.’
The beauty of antique shopping is that you never know what treasure you’ll uncover. With so many long-established stores and iconic markets scattered across the country, it couldn’t be easier to find the perfect piece to make your home feel eclectic and characterful.
Fear not if you’re not near any of these locations, as websites like eBay make sourcing vintage gems straightforward and fuss-free. Simply search for your desired piece and place a bid. Similarly, antique-specialist sites like Chairish and 1st Dibs are great for finding specific styles or eras, and you can shop with peace of mind as every piece is authenticated.
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