Antiquing in Lancaster, PA

Antiquing in Lancaster, PA Lancaster County is known to many for its variety of antiques that one can discover if you have the patience to do some digging. From free standing, independent shops, to galleries, to full antique malls, there are all sorts of places to find just what your heart desires.

Below is a list of tips and tricks to help ensure you find what you are after.

When to Go

Arrive Early
Antiquing in Lancaster, PA is an exciting adventure that starts early. Locals know the best deals on unique pieces are found at dawn, so grab a double espresso and hit all the shops, galleries, and malls. If auctions are more your style, scout the lots for later in the day. Either way, you'll find one-of-a-kind treasures!

Think Spring
Mud sales are auctions held in spring from February to mid-April. You can find hand-made quilts, furniture, and antiques. Bring boots and layers. Some mud sales occur from May to August, but they are less common. Antique auctions happen year-round and are advertised online and in newspapers. Check listings for specific items.

Where To Go

Lancaster County is loaded with places to buy antiques- big, small, specialty, variety, you name is we probably have it.

If you are looking to visit one of the premier year-round antiques destinations head to Adamstown, PA. Many consider the “Antiques Capital of the USA.” With over 3,000 antique dealers in Adamstown, you are guaranteed to find a wide variety of fares.

While Adamstown is considered the “Antiques Capital,” other small independent shops can be found around the County too!

• Tollbooth Antique Marketplace | 215 Chestnut St , Columbia | (717) 684-5555
• Puttzin' | 990 Susquehannock Dr, Holtwood | (717) 940-8272
• Blue Gate Pickens | 69 Nissley Lane, Holtwood | (717) 284-6982
• Stoudt's Antique Mall | 2800 N. Reading Rd, Route 272, Adamstown | (717) 484-2757
• Strasburg Antique Market | 207 Georgetown Road, Strasburg | (717) 687-5624
• Cackleberry Farm Antique Mall | 3371 Lincoln Highway East, Paradise | (717) 442-8805
• Renningers Antique Market | 2500 N Reading Rd, Denver | (717) 336-2177
• Burning Bridge Antiques Market | 304 Walnut St, Columbia | (717) 684-7900
• Space | 24 W. Walnut Street, Lancaster | (717) 413-3477
• Bootleg Antiques | 135 Bridge St, Columbia | (717) 684-0009
• Lancaster County Antique Center | 2255 N Reading Rd, Denver | (717) 336-2701

If it is a nice day we suggest heading to some of our outdoor farmer's markets like Green Dragon Market & Auction (on Fridays), Root’s Market (on Tuesdays), or Shupp’s Grove Antique Market (check their website for special events and dates).

How to Bid

To get the price that you want (or closer to it) at an auction, you should do some research beforehand to find out what price your desired item generally sells for in local markets and what antique dealers typically pay for the item.

You should also inspect the items that you plan to bid on before the auction starts to take some notes about their condition and number. It's important to know your budget and avoid getting caught up in a bidding battle.

Finally, make sure you know what forms of payment are accepted before you bid.

How to Get Your Items Home

While most smaller items you will be able to put in your vehicle, furniture isn’t always the easiest to transport. Some sellers may ship the items to you for a fee, which can sometimes be negotiated into the final deal. However, you may want to ship something on your own.

We suggest using Postal Connections for shipping. They work with all major carriers and have mailing supplies in their shop as well.

Why It's Worth the Effort

Shopping for antiques is a great way to spend your time. Whether you are shopping with company or alone it allows you to see the beautiful scenery of the County and learn some of its heritage while you are exploring. Plus, you get to take home a piece of history and add a bit of pizzazz to your house with a one-of-a-kind piece.

As a bonus, you get to interact with many knowledgeable Lancaster locals. So give it a try- we say out with the new, and in with the old!