9 Iowa Thrift Stores With Retro Gems Worth Grabbing

Hunting for vintage treasures in Iowa has never been more exciting. The Hawkeye State boasts some amazing secondhand shops where retro items from decades past wait to find new homes. Whether you’re searching for vinyl records, mid-century furniture, or quirky kitchen gadgets, these nine Iowa thrift stores are goldmines for unique finds with stories to tell.

1. Alma Vintage: Ames’ Hidden Treasure Trove

Step into a time capsule where vintage clothing reigns supreme. Alma Vintage specializes in carefully curated pieces from the 1950s through the 1990s.

Their collection of authentic band tees and denim jackets draws fashion enthusiasts from across the state. The friendly staff can help date your finds and share stories behind certain styles.

Pricing remains reasonable despite the quality, making this spot perfect for both serious collectors and curious newcomers to vintage fashion.

2. The Loft Resale: Ames’ Eclectic Wonderland

Housed in a charming second-floor space, The Loft Resale offers an ever-changing inventory that keeps customers coming back weekly. Their vinyl record section alone justifies the trip.

Vintage homeware enthusiasts will appreciate the carefully arranged displays of Pyrex bowls and mid-century kitchen gadgets. College students frequent this spot for affordable statement pieces that stand out from mass-produced dorm décor.

The Loft’s monthly themed sales make timing your visit worthwhile for maximum savings.

3. Funky Finds Vintage & Retro: Des Moines’ Groovy Paradise

True to its name, this Des Moines hotspot specializes in the funkiest items from yesteryear. Neon signs illuminate rooms packed with 70s and 80s memorabilia that transport you back in time.

Their collection of vintage video games and consoles attracts tech enthusiasts looking to relive childhood gaming sessions. Fashion lovers flock here for authentic disco-era clothing and accessories that make statement pieces for modern wardrobes.

Weekend visits often include surprise pop-up events featuring local collectors selling specialized vintage goods.

4. Stuff Etc.: The Treasure Hunter’s Playground

With multiple locations across Iowa, Stuff Etc. has mastered the consignment model, creating massive spaces filled with potential discoveries. Each visit feels like a treasure hunt with unexpected finds around every corner.

Their furniture section offers incredible deals on solid wood pieces that put modern particle board to shame. The rotating inventory means early birds get first pick of newly displayed vintage items.

The organized layout makes browsing pleasant, unlike the chaotic jumble of many thrift stores.

5. The Brass Armadillo: Des Moines’ Antique Wonderland

Walking into this massive antique mall feels like entering a museum where everything’s for sale. Individual vendor booths create mini-shops specializing in different eras and collectibles.

Vintage advertising signs, classic Coca-Cola memorabilia, and antique fishing gear are just a sampling of what you’ll discover. The Brass Armadillo attracts serious collectors but welcomes curious browsers too.

Unlike many antique stores, their reasonable prices mean you can actually afford the cool stuff you find.

6. Hidden Gems Resale Shop: Cedar Rapids’ Vintage Goldmine

Living up to its name, this Cedar Rapids shop requires a bit of digging to unearth its treasures. Vintage costume jewelry fills glass cases with sparkly potential at surprisingly affordable prices.

Retro kitchenware from the 50s and 60s dominates one corner, perfect for collectors of Jadeite or colorful Melamine. The back room houses vintage clothing that’s been carefully sorted by decade rather than size.

Monthly flash sales aren’t advertised online, you’ll need to join their old-school mailing list to get the scoop.

7. 20 Years Awesome!: Cedar Rapids’ Nostalgic Nirvana

A retro lover’s dream, this Cedar Rapids gem specializes exclusively in items from the 1980s through early 2000s. Vintage toys still in their original packaging line the walls like a time capsule of childhood memories.

Their collection of band tees spans decades of concert tours, many in pristine condition. Gaming enthusiasts travel specifically for their selection of vintage Nintendo, Sega, and PlayStation items.

The owner’s encyclopedic knowledge of pop culture makes conversations about your finds almost as fun as the shopping itself.

8. Crowded Closet: Iowa City’s Ethical Treasure Chest

More than just a thrift store, Iowa City’s Crowded Closet operates with a mission of supporting global relief efforts. Their vintage section hides among general secondhand goods but rewards patient shoppers.

Mid-century dishware and furniture pieces appear regularly at prices that would make big-city vintage shops blush. University students and professors alike hunt here for unique home décor and classic clothing pieces.

Their volunteer staff includes several retired collectors who help identify unusual vintage items that might otherwise go unrecognized.

9. Animal Lifeline Thrift Store: Des Moines’ Pet-Loving Vintage Paradise

Supporting animal rescue while scoring vintage finds makes this Des Moines shop extra special. Their back corner houses a surprisingly excellent collection of vintage records, books and magazines from decades past.

Retro home décor appears regularly, with particularly strong showings of 70s macramé and quirky ceramic pieces. The constantly rotating inventory means frequent visits yield the best results.

All proceeds support local animal welfare, adding an extra feel-good factor to your vintage hunting adventures.