I’d like to say that my love of thrift shopping stems entirely from eco-friendly, frugal, and charitable intentions, but I have to admit: it’s also just really fun to hunt for treasures in places where every individual piece feels one-of-a-kind.
My home region, the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, is rich with thrift shops, antique stores, and places that sell creatively up-cycled and refurbished goods. With a large student population and a culture that often embraces a low-waste approach to living, locally-made goods, and a good old New England bargain, there are a lot of second-hand options.
We have the usual chain thrift stores—Savers, Goodwill, Salvation Army—and there’s always Craigslist, local “buy nothing” groups, swap shops at transfer stations, and tag sales. There are a few special places, though, that I find myself coming back to when I’m looking for something specific or I want to talk to another human being.
So, here are my favorite go-to stores in the Valley when it comes to buying things that aren’t quite new.
I’ve included as many other stores for each category that I’m aware of. Some of these stores fall under the “thrift store” heading, while others are a little more in the vintage or up-cycled camp. I didn’t include stores that exclusively sell antiques, since they deserve their own special category, and I don’t typically buy antiques. And I always welcome suggestions for additions!
CLOTHING
Cancer Connection Thrift Shop
Northampton
If you live in the Noho area and shop second-hand, you’ve probably been here. The small store has a rapidly-cycling selection of clothes that range from basic brands for a few dollars to some high-quality (and slightly higher-priced) gems carefully selected by staff. The store and staff are just plain fun, hosting events and special sales on a regular basis. If you want a thrift store you can walk into and find something totally different every week, this is a go-to. Plus, proceeds benefit the local Cancer Connection nonprofit.
Hospice Shop of the Fisher Home
Amherst
Another charity-supporting store I love is the little Hospice Shop in Amherst. They have friendly volunteer staff, a cozy atmosphere, and a well-organized stock. In fall of 2018 they reopened their store in a larger space with much more parking.
Luxe Consignment
Northampton
This independently-owned consignment store has women’s clothes to suit every budget and an owner with a warm and outgoing personality. If you’re looking for designer brands, elegant evening wear, or some dressier work items, you’re likely to find them here. I found that her stock had a little more pizzazz than other local second-hand stores.
Also check out:
Born Again Vintage and Consignment
Northampton
Cinderelli’s Consignment Boutique
South Hadley
Goodwill
Amherst, Chicopee, Northampton, Springfield, Westfield
Hens and Chicks
Greenfield
Hospice Shop of Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Northampton
Lucky Bird Thrift
Greenfield
Mimi’s Consignment Boutique
East Longmeadow
The Parson’s Closet
Easthampton
Ransakka’s Consignment & Gift Shop
Belchertown
Rethreads
Shelburne Falls
Roz’s Place
Northampton
Salvation Army
Agawam, Greenfield, Hadley, Turners Falls, Springfield, Westfield
Savers
Springfield, West Springfield
Sonnet & Sparrow
Easthampton
Angel’s Attic
Easthampton
Urban Exchange
Northampton
HOME GOODS AND FURNITURE
Trading Post
Amherst
The door is hidden around a corner, but head down the stairs and you’ll find a never-ending basement labyrinth of old furniture and antiques. They’re hanging from the ceiling, stacked high up the walls, and hidden in rooms you’re not sure if you’re allowed to enter (don’t worry, you are). The chatty, sweet owners attend estate sales regularly, and the best way to find out about hot items (e.g. mid-century modern pieces, rustic wood tables) is to follow them on Facebook for their daily updates. The best stuff gets snapped up quickly! Prices vary depending on the popularity of the style.
Loot
Turners Falls
Exploring this store is like taking a time machine back to the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s and being able to touch things that you, your parents, or grandparents had in their homes or their toyboxes when they were young. Except, here, you can still buy them. Nostalgia abounds in an unusual blend of vintage hardware, stationary, toys, and small household items along with products made (often upcycled) by local artisans. If you’re a DIY-er yourself, you may find just the right metal clasp, knick-knack, or mid-century topo-map of your town to complete your project.
Also check out:
Assemble
Northampton
Castle Architectural Salvage
Northampton
Eco-Building Bargains
Springfield
Paper City Fabrics
Holyoke
Swanson’s Fabrics
Turner’s Falls
Stenhouse Furnishings
Turners Falls
CHILD AND BABY
Hens and Chicks
Greenfield
It’s called Hens and Chicks for a good reason—they have baby gear, clothes, and toys for all ages of children, but they’ve got a surprisingly well-stocked selection of clothes for mom, too, in maternity and regular sizes! The children’s items are in good condition and fairly priced—an important factor to consider for fast-growing tots and kids.
The Village Closet
This is not your typical “shop,” because everything is free! I haven’t been here yet, but I’ve heard it’s often chock full of good quality donations of children’s clothing, gear, and toys. You can pick up what you need, regardless of income or town of residence. I’ve listed two other “closet” type shops in other towns below.
Also check out:
Community Closet
Agawam
Kidstuff
Florence
Northfield Clothing Closet
Northfield
Once Upon a Child
Springfield
NOTE: Many of the larger thrift stores listed in the general “Clothing” section also sell children’s clothes.
BOOKS & MEDIA
Grey Matter Books
Hadley
Maybe I have a soft spot for stores that are off the beaten path and make you feel like you’re inside a maze, but this bookstore is totally worth the trip. It’s right off the bike trail, too! You’ll find shelves of non-fiction reading to satisfy your intellect, but don’t worry—they carry novels and literature, too.
The Montague Bookmill
Montague
Their motto is “Books You Don’t Need in a Place You Can’t Find,” and I’ve seen it on bumper stickers in places as far away as Los Angeles. That’s how special this place is. It’s tucked away in an old, red multi-story gristmill with views of the Saw Mill River, and features two restaurants, the aforementioned books, and the occasional local music event. Right next door are Turn it Up! (used and new music) and an art gallery. Come for the books, stay for the craft beer and Warm Brown Rice Salad.
Mystery Train Records
Mystery Train has been around for decades, and they pack A LOT into a small space on the first floor of a vibrant blue house, just behind Share Coffee in downtown Amherst. Cool dog hanging out in the store? Check. Niche genres? Check? Great prices? Double check. Love this place.
Also check out:
Amherst Books
Amherst
Bookends
Florence
Boswell’s Books
Shelburne Falls
Federal Street Books
Greenfield
Heritage Books
South Hadley
Raven Used Books
Northampton
Roundabout Books
Greenfield
Shelburne Falls Book Sellers
Shelburne Falls
White Square
Easthampton
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