The Small Town In Upstate New York That's A Secret Treasure Trove Of Vintage Thrift Stores

Located just 110 miles north of New York City, the town of Saugerties is truly a hidden gem. Brimming with small-town character, this picturesque destination is packed with cozy thrift stores and adorable antique shops. Situated along the west bank of the Hudson River, at the base of the Catskill Mountains, Saugerties is a perfect place to spend a leisurely day, strolling the quaint streets, scouring affordable finds, and uncovering treasured antique items.

In case you need proof that Saugerties is as delightful as it sounds, the town has earned top spots on USA Today's Best Small Town in the Northeast list in 2024 and 2025 and was named one of America's Coolest Small Towns by Budget Travel. Among its many charms, Saugerties' secondhand shopping scene is one of the biggest draws to the area. 

With an eclectic mix of shops, there's a little something for every treasure hunter from retro fashions, gently used books, art, and home goods at Pop Vintage Antiques to historically accurate lighting, plumbing, and fixtures at Fed-On Lights Antiques. You may even find the prized vintage furniture brand everyone should look for at one of the unique thrift stores. Whatever you're looking for, a day spent browsing the shops in Saugerties is sure to leave you with a few great finds.

As an added bonus, some of the Saugerties thrift shops also support meaningful causes. For instance, The Well Thrift Shop is sponsored by Saugerties Area Council of Churches and provides assistance to those in need. Meanwhile, Happy Paws Thrift Store, which sells items such as antiques, art, kitchenware, and decor, raises money for the local animal shelter.  

Thrifting is popular in Saugerties year-round, though each season brings its own unique charming and attractions. Fall is a favorite thanks to the beautiful foliage the town's farmers market on Main Street, while the winter transforms the downtown with festive decorations and holiday events. But if you're looking for the best time of year to visit thrift stores to score the best treasures, late spring and summer may be your best bet. Not only will the warmer weather make it more enjoyable to wander from store to store, but it also coincides with spring cleaning — the time of year that thrift store donations tend to surge. 

While weekends may seem like the logical time to shop — and it is for many Manhattanites seeking a quick escape from the city — weekdays are often the sweet spot when it comes to thrifting. The stores are less packed, and the shelves tend to be better stocked. People also frequently drop items off on weekends, so you're likely to find new inventory come Monday.