Thrift shopping in Arizona: Top spots and tips

There’s no feeling like the thrill of the hunt. It’s a sensation every thrifter is familiar with, and it’s the driving force when searching through enormous warehouses and dusty boxes. Even better is the sweet satisfaction of adding a gem to your collection, showing everyone who you are and what you stand for while giving clothes, furniture and more a second (or third or fourth) shot at love.

And what luck! If you’re in Arizona, you’re smack-dab in the middle of a red-hot thrifting scene, and there’s no bad place to start. Here are some thrift stores in Arizona that can offer excellent deals while supporting exceptional causes, all while giving you the adrenaline rush of treasure hunting.

Reborn finds in Phoenix

A sprawling metro area that includes both major attractions and holes in the wall, Phoenix is the perfect place to start digging. Here are a few shops to add to your destination list.

• Antique Sugar: Right in the heart of downtown, Antique Sugar is a trendsetter’s dream. One step inside and you’ll probably notice the wide spectrum of colors, and the finds are just as diverse. Be on the lookout for unique attire, and check their website for the latest arrivals.
• Phoenix Vintage Market: Mark your calendar because the Phoenix Vintage Market is a full-on event. Local vendors and pickers gather to buy, sell and trade clothing, furniture, collectibles and more. Struggling to find your Holy Grail? It might be here!
• Love Child Clothing Resale: Love Child specializes in children’s clothes, bringing the thrift store charm to kids and teens. You can also offload old clothes for 50% of their sale price in store credit or 25% in cash.

Thrifting tip No. 1: One of the best parts about thrift shops, not just in Arizona but everywhere, is that they restock frequently. Be sure to visit your favorites often for a chance to be the first to new finds.

Nostalgia nooks in Northern Arizona

Whether you live in Northern Arizona or make a day trip to escape the heat, it’s a great place to visit a few thrift shops. The best part is that every city in Arizona’s upper half has its own identity, meaning you may find different scores at every stop. Here are some shops you should visit.

• Cedar Closet Thrift Shop: Located away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Flagstaff, Cedar Closet is run by Assistance League, and all earnings are donated to their various philanthropic programs.
• Sharon’s Attic: Get your thrift-store kicks on Route 66 at Sharon’s Attic in Flagstaff. Founded in 2014, they help survivors of domestic violence become independent and self-sufficient.
• Stepping Stones Thrift: Since inception in 1980, Stepping Stones has offered shelter and advocacy for both child and adult victims of violence. In 1997, they opened a thrift store that quickly became popular among those looking for secondhand goods including cars and other vehicles.

Thrifting tip No. 2: Don’t be afraid to try items on. Even if you know your size, those jeans may fit differently from the ones in your closet. Items that are well worn or washed may also have changed noticeably with time.

Vintage vaults in the East Valley

The east side of the Valley is typically known for retail and outlet shops, but if you look close enough, you may be able to score big. Here are a few worthwhile thrift shops in Arizona’s East Valley. 

•  Purple Heart Desert Thrift Shop: With three locations across the east side of the Phoenix area, Purple Heart is dedicated to dressing veterans and families with clean, affordable clothes. Volunteers also work hard to ensure the shop is organized and staffed with helpful associates.
• 360 Thrift: Known for its daily specials, 360 has locations in Chandler and Mesa. Check their website to stay updated on their latest deals, including 30% off for seniors on Mondays and 50% off select tags Wednesday through Saturday.
• Third Eye Thrift: Trying to ward off bad spirits while keeping it trendy? Third Eye Thrift might be the stop for you! They align your wardrobe and your chakras at a great price point.

Thrifting tip No. 3: Do your research. Know how to tell quality AND a fair price, especially with pre-loved items. High-end brands may not always last the longest or provide the best value over the long-term.

West Valley value voyaging

Some say the west side is the best side, and that can absolutely be true when it comes to thrift shopping in Arizona. Here are a few great starting points.

• Sun City Thrift Shop: Known as a retirement oasis, Sun City is also a thrift shopping hotspot. Retirees looking to downsize or declutter may not want to move or sell their belongings, and that’s where thrift shoppers can capitalize. Sun City Thrift Shop also supports Arizona students and teachers as well, so you can feel good about shopping and giving back.
• Wicked Trade: Wicked Trade’s mission is to give everyone the chance to buy high-quality items at a fair price, all while promoting ecological responsibility by fighting fast fashion.
• Glorious Treasures: Started by the Advanced Independent Charity, Glorious Treasures helps individuals with disabilities develop their professional skills. That means you can uncover your next treasure while supporting a great cause.

Thrifting tip No. 4: Know the rules. Some thrift stores run daily or weekly specials, meaning you can get even better deals when treasure hunting!

Tucson treasure troves

Our last stop on the treasure tour is in Tucson. And don’t worry. You might be heading south, but your luck at these prime thrifting locations and hidden gems certainly isn’t!

• Golden Goose: The Golden Goose is everything a thrift shop should be: fun, inviting, unique and above all, a spot where you can find high-quality merchandise for well below retail value. Also, don’t forget to grab your 20% off coupon from their website.
• Tucson Thrift Shop: Located in the Historic Fourth Avenue Business District, Tucson Thrift Shop is a unique combination of retro and modern. From vintage streetwear to accessories for your next costume, it’s the perfect place to add a little pizzazz to your style.
• ReThreads: Set in the heart of downtown Tucson is ReThreads, the home of trendy, gently used clothing. They also give adults in mental health recovery both jobs and a social outlet, helping them fight the stigma of mental illness and find their path forward.

Thrifting tip No. 5: Be patient and embrace the hunt. There’s no feeling more rewarding than finally coming across the perfect piece after all your hard work.

X marks the spot!

Now that you have your map, you’re ready to start your treasure tour of thrift stores in Arizona. Just follow these thrifting tips and you could find eco-friendly attire, ways to support local businesses or a special addition to your collection. So, happy treasure hunting, and remember: That perfect piece is waiting for you to find it!