Uncovering Bargains and Treasures at Lancaster County Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are where affordability meets nostalgia, and environmental consciousness dances with the joy of discovery. Even if you're not an avid thrifter, it can be fun to go in search of hidden treasures when you're exploring Lancaster County. Whether you're looking for vintage fashion, classic books, unique artwork or collectibles, Lancaster's thrift stores are veritable treasure troves, housing an eclectic array of items that span eras and styles.
There are a number of reasons thrift stores attract shoppers of all types. First and foremost is affordability. Who doesn't love a good bargain? Shopping for secondhand goods is a great way to save money, especially if you're on a budget. Thrift stores also provide access to unique and vintage items you won't find anywhere else. Part of the allure is hunting for and finding useful, quirky or even valuable treasures from the past. There's also a sustainability and environmental benefit to purchasing from a thrift store, as you save those items from going into a landfill and reduce the demand for new production.
One more reason people like to patron thrift stores is that many support local charities. That especially holds true here in Lancaster County. A sizable number of our thrift stores benefit charitable organizations, and shopping there helps support their causes and community programs. Knowing that your purchases contribute to a good cause can make the shopping experience even more fulfilling.
Whether you're on the hunt for a timeless treasure or just a good bargain, you'll want to check out these seven Lancaster County thrift stores during your next stay with us at After Eight Bed and Breakfast. Each of these is no more than a 25-minute drive of our historic inn, and some are much closer.
Re-Uzit Shop of New Holland | 707 W. Main St., New Holland, PA
This nonprofit thrift store has been in New Holland for over 40 years. You'll find 30,000 square feet of donated clothing, books, cards, jewelry, furniture, decor and household items to peruse. Re-Uzit's profits are sent to the Mennonite Central Committee, which provides food, health, school and relief supplies for people in need locally and around the world.
Freedom Thrift on 30 | 2853 Lincoln Highway E., Ronks, PA
When you shop at Freedom Thrift, you’re getting more than a good deal on unique finds. Proceeds from your purchase directly support Revelations of Freedom Ministries, uplifting and empowering men who are struggling with addiction. They also have a second location in New Holland.
Lucky Dog and Used To Be Thrift Shops | 158 E. Main St., New Holland, PA
Head to Lucky Dog and Used To Be Thrift Shops, where you'll actually find two stores at one location! Together they offer an extensive assortment of household items, antiques, collectibles, tools, jewelry, primitives, furniture and more — 17,000 square feet of merchandise in total!
Lancaster Creative Reuse | 1865 Lincoln Highway E., Lancaster, PA
If you're crafty or artistic in any way, you'll love Lancaster Creative Reuse. The mission of this donation-based art, craft and sewing supply store is to connect community excess to those who can use it creatively. They also offer crafting classes and events.
Country Gift and Thrift Shoppe | 5602 Old Philadelphia Pike, Gap, PA
Antiques, books, craft and scrapbooking supplies, housewares, jewelry, linens, quality used clothing, toys — the list of things you'll find at Country Gift and Thrift Shoppe is endless. Like other Lancaster thrift shops, this resale shop benefits the Mennonite Central Committee's mission work. You also can bid on select vintage and antique items in their on-going silent auction.
Matthew 25 Thrift Shop | 48 E. Main St., Lititz, PA
Located in the center of historic Lititz, Matthew 25 Thrift Shop is celebrating its 23rd year in operation in 2023. This is a nonprofit charitable resale store run by a core team of volunteers to raise money to support deserving Lancaster County charities. They carry a wide variety of goods including apparel, accessories, home decor, toys and more.
Main Street Closet | 2842 Willow Street Pike, Willow Street, PA
Main Street Closet is another mission-based thrift store that sends its proceeds to support the Mennonite Central Committee. The shop was originally located in Strasburg, but moved to its current site in 2014. Here you'll find over 7,000 square feet of clothing, jewelry, housewares, books and more with frequent sales and special deals.
