As fun as online shopping can be, it’s no match to the in-person experience of exploring an antique shop, filled to the brim with odds and ends… and your next favorite item, if you’re lucky! The next time the weather’s dreary or you’re just in the mood for an adventure, check out these local antique shops and vintage markets in Boston for an unforgettable shopping experience.
1. Upstairs Downstairs Home
Any antique lover in Boston is surely familiar with Charles Street in Beacon Hill, otherwise known as “Antique Row.” There’s about a dozen antique stores within a 4-block stretch, and you’ll definitely want to take a stop by Upstairs Downstairs while you’re there. This shop has something special for everyone at any price point, whether it’s high-end furniture or inexpensive knick knacks.
Where: 69 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114
When: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
2. Elegant Findings Antiques
Another mainstay of Antique Row, Elegant Findings is like a miniature museum of stunning antique porcelain and glassware. For those who love the finer things in life, you’ll find yourself falling in love with the dainty teacups and decorative porcelain figures, as well as their sizeable selection of antique furniture, that live inside this charming antique store.
Where: 89 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114
When: Thursday-Saturday, 12-5pm
3. Bartevian
This antique store is a true hidden gem of Boston. Bartevian is both an antique consignment store and an unofficial fan club of Edgar Allan Poe—who was actually born in Boston a few blocks away. You can get super-cool vintage lunch boxes, paintings, sculptures, toys, LPs, and books here, in addition to Poe-shaped paraphernalia as well. Established in 1910, the store’s owner, Patricia Bartevian, is an iconic Boston figure who was even featured in Boston Magazine in recent years. It’s easily one of the most unique stores in Boston.
Where: 160 Boylston St Boston, MA 02116
When: Mon-Sat, 9-4
4. Fun Antiques
Fun Antiques in Cambridge is primarily dedicated to lighting (both selling and repairing vintage lamps and light fixtures), but they also have great mid-century furniture and decor collection. And like all good antique stores, there’s plenty of baubles and collectibles to peruse, from vintage instruments and audio equipment to movie props and costume jewelry.
Where: 33 Belmont Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
When: Tuesday through Saturday, 11-6
5. Cambridge Antique Market
We’re not exaggerating when we say the Cambridge Antique Market is huuuuge. Spanning 5 floors and with over 150 antique dealers, you can easily spend a full day browsing the assorted stalls of vintage furniture, lighting fixtures, artwork, fine silver, glass, China, toys, dolls, books, clothing, and collectibles!
Where: 201 Monsignor O’Brien Hwy Cambridge, MA 02141
When: Tuesday-Sunday, 11-5:30
6. SoWa Vintage Market
Wandering around the SoWa Vintage Market is a great way to spend a Sunday in the South End. While prices and the type of merchandise varies from vendor to vendor, it’s a fun spot to meander around. Plus, in the warmer months you’ll be able to stop by the outdoor Open Market!
Where: 450 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
When: Open Sundays all year, 11-4 & First Friday monthly, 5-9
7. Machine Age
Not all of us can afford authentic mid-century furniture pieces… but it sure is fun to look at them! Machine Age is a massive store that’s home to some of the most iconic furniture and lighting from the past century. Plus, some extremely rare Danish modern pieces that you can’t get anywhere else in the United States. Even if you’re not in the market to buy anything, it’s worth the visit to get inspiration and see high-end, midcentury designer pieces.
Where: 121 Boston Street, Boston MA 02125
When: Tuesdays and Saturdays 12pm-3pm, and by appointment
8. Select Markets
Founded by two Northeastern University students, Select Markets curates vintage goods from various independent sellers around the city. The duo host boppin’ parties around the city with more than just an outstanding selection of vintage goods. You’ll find food and beverage, live DJs, and a fun crowd.
Follow Select Markets to know when and where their next pop-up will be!
9. Retrospect
As the name suggests, this cute antique and vintage shop on Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge carries items from decade’s past. They’re heavy on the clothing, but you’ll also find a selection of furniture, and unique knick-knacks hidden throughout the store.
Where: 940 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
When: Daily from 12-9 PM
10. friends + family
Just across the street from Retrospect is another vintage shop with some luxe finds! This vintage store also primarily sells clothing, but antiue items do cycle in and out of the shop as the owner sources some incredible finds from designers like Miu Miu! You might stumble across antique lamps, rugs, and decor used throughout the store’s merchandising to inspire your next find.
Where: 1073 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
When: Closed Tuesdays; Monday, Wednesday-Friday 12-6 PM, Saturday 11-6 PM, Sunday 12-5 PM