Whether you’re looking for a set of vintage jelly glasses or searching for a mate for that mid-century modern lamp your grandma had, there are lots of spots to search and possibly find something you didn’t know you were looking for. Here are some of the best antique stores in Ontario:
Roadshow Antiques, Innisfil
This spot, which is visible from Highway 400 in Innisfil, shares a lot with the popular (and busy) 400 Market—so if you want to avoid crowds in the parking lot, go during the week. Once you’re there, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in 32,000 square feet of retro, vintage, and antique collectibles, furniture, clothing, art, and a whole lot more. And if you’re looking for a specific piece, they’ll keep an eye out for you—just sign up on their website.
Freelton Antique Mall, Freelton, between Hamilton and Guelph
A family business for more than 20 years, Freelton Antique Mall has gone from a small-ish market with antiques and handcrafts to a bustling two-level antique mall with more than 200 vendors. There’s definitely something for everyone, particularly if you’re looking for smaller collectibles like toys, kitchen items, tools, and ceramics or pottery. Beware, Google Maps has been known to send people to the wrong address, so make sure you’re heading northwest on Freelton Road and you’ll get there.
One of a Kind Antique Mall, Woodstock
With 80,000 square feet of antiques, this old knitting company warehouse in Woodstock makes for a fun day of exploring. The first two floors are devoted to smaller items and the third floor to furniture. There’s really no end to the possibilities of what you might find, including more modern items, like handcrafts and gadgets. One of a Kind is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.
Market Road Antiques, St. Jacobs
St. Jacobs is a fun day trip for many reasons, and one of the best is Market Road Antiques. Check out more than 100 vendor booths, including fascinating showcases with estate jewellery and pretty much every Royal Doulton figurine you can imagine. If you’re looking for larger historic items, check out Artefacts Salvage and Design, just down the street—they’ve got old doors, stained glass windows and anything else you could want to restore an old house or add character to a new one.
Antique Alley, Kingston
Antique Alley is really in an alley (and check out their website for specific directions), but, as their website points out, once you find it, you won’t forget it. It looks small from the outside, but inside there are 4,000 square feet of antiques, including silver, china, glassware, and furniture. There’s also a great selection of vintage clothing, jewellery and accessories.
Dead People’s Stuff Antiques, Bloomfield
Well, the name tells it like it is. A collection of eclectic antiques and vintage finds—courtesy of chief buyer Sue Herlihy—welcomes visitors, who can browse through carefully curated finds to their heart’s content. Those who get a real kick out of the name can also buy Dead People’s Stuff merchandise. Just note: during the winter season, the shop is open on weekends only.
Franni’s Attic, Port Rowan
Franni’s Attic features an acre of antiques and unique finds in the historic Howey Hardware building in Port Rowan. Folks who visit remark on the wide selection that changes frequently—meaning no two visits will ever be the same. Along with antique and vintage finds, there’s also a selection of more modern home decor.
Aberfoyle Antique Market, Aberfoyle, south of Guelph
Canada’s largest outdoor antique market is closed for the season now, but make sure to check them out when they open back up next June. Running on Sundays and select Saturdays during their season, Aberfoyle features more than 100 vendors and a huge selection of folk art, furniture, and other interesting finds. And if you find that perfect 19th-century buffet but can’t fit it in your Smart Car? They offer delivery service as well.
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