Ann Arbor is a treasure trove for thrift store enthusiasts. After spending countless weekends diving into Ann Arbor’s incredible secondhand scene (and maybe spending a bit too much of my paycheck), I’m finally spilling the tea on the absolute BEST thrift stores our amazing city has to offer. From carefully curated antiques to unbeatable deals on designer items, the city offers a vibrant secondhand shopping scene. Whether you’re looking for vintage furniture, budget-friendly fashion, or unique home decor, these spots have you covered.
Let’s dive into the best thrift stores Ann Arbor has to offer and what makes each one a must-visit destination.
The Best A2 Thrift Stores
1. The Getup Vintage | Downtown Ann Arbor
A Haven for Vintage Enthusiasts
The Getup Vintage is a must-visit for thrift lovers seeking unique and sustainable fashion. Specializing in hand-selected, one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, the store has been combating textile waste since 2005. Each garment is carefully cleaned and restored using eco-friendly methods, ensuring it is fresh, durable, and ready-to-wear. The team’s expertise, backed by decades of vintage buying experience, guarantees a collection filled with timeless classics and funky finds.
What You’ll Find:
- High-quality vintage clothing from the 1950s to today, including dresses, outerwear, and accessories.
- Unique materials like Petoskey stones and Fordite incorporated into jewelry and fashion.
- Eco-conscious cleaning methods that ensure each item is refreshed and cared for.
Why It Stands Out:
The Getup blends fashion and sustainability with a zero-waste approach, using natural products for cleaning and restoration. Their commitment to preserving the life of garments makes each purchase an investment in style and the environment.
Pro Tip:
Check out their seasonal displays for timeless pieces that suit current trends.
2. Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop – The Hidden Gem You Need to Know About
Location: 2280 S. Industrial Highway
If you’re hunting for incredible bargains while supporting a good cause, the Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop is the place to be. Proceeds from the store benefit local public schools, so your purchases contribute directly to the community.
What You’ll Find:
- Books: Their book section rivals that of some bookstores, offering an impressive variety.
- Designer clothing: It’s not uncommon to find brands like North Face, Patagonia, or J. Crew for under $20.
- Housewares: Ideal for students or anyone furnishing a new space on a budget.
Why It Stands Out:
The shop is exceptionally organized, making it easy to navigate and find treasures. They also hold weekly tag sales, where specific items are heavily discounted.
Pro Tip: Sign up for their email list to receive exclusive coupons and alerts about their special sales.
3. The Salvation Army on State Street – Where Patience Pays Off
Location: 1621 S. State St.
While The Salvation Army may not seem like the most glamorous option, this location near the University of Michigan campus is a hidden gem, especially during peak donation periods like student move-out season in May and August.
What You’ll Find:
- Clothing: Expect racks full of trendy, barely-worn items, often donated by students.
- Furniture: Perfect for anyone seeking affordable, functional pieces.
- Seasonal deals: Regular color tag sales let you score items for as low as $0.99.
Why It Stands Out:
The sheer volume of donations ensures that there’s always something new to discover. Merchandise is restocked throughout the day, so no matter when you visit, there’s a chance of finding something amazing.
Pro Tip: Visit on Wednesday mornings when fresh items are typically stocked, giving you first pick.
4. Kiwanis Thrift Sale – The Vintage Lover’s Paradise
Location: 100 N. Staebler Rd.
For vintage lovers and DIY enthusiasts, the Kiwanis Thrift Sale is a paradise. Located slightly off the beaten path, it offers a quieter shopping experience and an incredible selection of unique finds.
What You’ll Find:
- Vintage clothing: Their collection includes everything from retro dresses to timeless coats.
- Craft supplies: Perfect for hobbyists, their craft section is well-stocked and affordable.
- Housewares and decor: Find items that add a charming, nostalgic touch to your home.
Why It Stands Out:
Prices are consistently low, making it one of the most budget-friendly thrift stores in Ann Arbor. The friendly volunteers add to the welcoming atmosphere and often share insights about the items.
Pro Tip: Follow their Facebook page for updates on flash sales and special items. Early notifications can give you an edge.
5. Ragstock – When You Want That Perfect Mix of New and Used
Location: 337 E. Liberty St.
While Ragstock isn’t a traditional thrift store, its mix of curated vintage pieces and new items makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Ann Arbor’s secondhand scene. Conveniently located downtown, it’s a quick stop for fashion-forward shoppers.
What You’ll Find:
- Wearable vintage: Their collection includes vintage clothing that’s been cleaned, repaired, and ready to wear.
- Costume pieces: Perfect for themed parties or Halloween.
- Trendy items: A blend of secondhand and new styles that fit current fashion trends.
Why It Stands Out:
The selection is carefully curated, making it easy to find pieces that match your style without the overwhelming effort of sorting through endless racks.
Pro Tip: Check the clearance rack at the back of the store for marked-down vintage items.
Tips for Thrifting Success
Ann Arbor’s thrift stores are full of treasures, but finding the best pieces requires strategy. Here are some tips to enhance your thrifting experience:
- Visit often: Inventory changes frequently, so regular visits increase your chances of finding great items.
- Be patient: The best finds often require digging through racks or taking your time to explore every corner.
- Inspect items carefully: Look for damage or wear, but don’t dismiss items with small, fixable flaws.
- Grab it if you love it: Thrifting is competitive, and great pieces don’t stay on the shelves for long.
Why Thrift in Ann Arbor?
Thrifting isn’t just about finding deals; it’s also a sustainable way to shop. Ann Arbor’s thrift stores make it easy to reduce waste, support local organizations, and add unique, high-quality items to your wardrobe or home. Each store has its own personality, and part of the fun is discovering the stories behind your purchases.
Conclusion
Whether you’re furnishing your home, updating your wardrobe, or searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, Ann Arbor’s thrift stores offer something for everyone. The Getup Vintage, Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop, Salvation Army on State Street, Kiwanis Thrift Sale, and Ragstock are just a few of the many options waiting to be explored. So, grab a friend, set aside an afternoon, and see what treasures you can uncover. Have a favorite thrift store in Ann Arbor that didn’t make the list? Share your go-to spots and best finds in the comments. Let’s keep the local thrifting community thriving!