Top Antique Destination
Updated October 2025

Top 10 Antique Stores in Des Moines, IA

The best-rated stores and markets in America's Antiques Capital

Rankings based on customer reviews, selection quality, dealer variety, and overall shopping experience

The Definitive Top 10

From massive warehouses with hundreds of dealers to specialized boutiques with curated collections, these are the must-visit destinations that make Des Moines, IA the undisputed antique capital of America.

Top 10 Antique Stores List

Fern Hill Gifts and Quilts

Extensive fabric selection
STORE FORMAT
Single Owner Shop
STORE SIZE
Large Store
PRICE RANGE
$$
SPECIALTIES
Clothing/TextilesDecorative ItemsArchitectural

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Quality fabrics for quilting
  • Unique gift items
  • Homemade fudge/chocolates

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Not handicap accessible
  • Located away from main Amana village

Housed in a charming historic building in South Amana, Fern Hill spans three levels of treasure hunting. The main floor offers seasonal decor, antiques, and handmade chocolates, while the second floor is a quilter's paradise with over 500 fabric options. The basement houses architectural salvage and antiques. Famous for their extensive fabric collection, homemade fudge, and unique gifts, visitors typically spend 90+ minutes exploring all three floors.

103 220th Trl, South Amana, IA 52334

Funky Finds Vintage & Retro

Well-curated mid-century collection
STORE FORMAT
Single Owner Shop
STORE SIZE
Large Store
PRICE RANGE
$$
SPECIALTIES
FurnitureClothing/TextilesCollectibles

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Quality vintage finds
  • Time-travel experience
  • Fair pricing for authentic pieces

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Limited fitting rooms
  • Some items considered pricey

Step into Funky Finds for a time-traveling adventure through two well-organized floors of mid-century modern treasures. This carefully curated vintage store specializes in furniture, clothing, and nostalgic collectibles from the 50s-70s. Friendly owners create a welcoming atmosphere where shoppers can spend an hour or more exploring everything from retro furniture and vintage clothing to kitschy decor. The basement level adds even more discoveries to this Des Moines favorite.

1731 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

Thrifty Flea Market

Affordable prices
STORE FORMAT
Single Owner Shop
STORE SIZE
Boutique Shop
PRICE RANGE
$
SPECIALTIES
Tools/HardwareCollectiblesVintage/Primitives

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Personal attention from owner
  • Reasonable prices
  • Interesting/unique finds

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Limited hours
  • Small size/space constraints

This clean, well-organized shop offers an eclectic mix of vintage items, tools, and collectibles at remarkably affordable prices. Owner Gary creates a welcoming atmosphere, often helping customers find treasures and carrying purchases to cars. Despite its compact size, the constantly changing inventory of glassware, furniture, and quality tools keeps regulars returning weekly to discover new finds.

1212 Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
Open Thu-Sat

Calico and Company

Clean and well-organized
STORE FORMAT
Multi-Vendor Mall
STORE SIZE
Large Store
PRICE RANGE
$
SPECIALTIES
Decorative ItemsCollectiblesVintage/Primitives

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Friendly staff
  • Mix of old and new items
  • Well-curated displays

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Credit card surcharge
  • Some feel too many craft items vs. antiques

This two-level antique store houses 60+ vendors offering a diverse mix of old and new treasures. Known for farmhouse decor, vintage items, and collectibles like Pyrex, the well-organized space stays remarkably clean with thoughtfully arranged displays. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices on everything from antique toys to home decor. Plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring both floors, where you'll discover handcrafted items alongside nostalgic treasures.

1022 Alabar Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701
Open Tue-Sat

The Picker Knows

Large selection/variety
STORE FORMAT
Multi-Vendor Mall
STORE SIZE
Large Store
PRICE RANGE
$$
SPECIALTIES
CollectiblesVintage/PrimitivesDecorative Items

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Finding unique/unexpected items
  • Variety of merchandise
  • Pleasant shopping environment

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Some overpriced items
  • Occasional quality issues

This expansive antique mall houses numerous vendor booths across five dedicated aisles, offering an impressive array of collectibles, vintage items, and decorative pieces. Visitors regularly spend hours exploring the well-organized displays, with many noting the clean environment and friendly staff. Merchandise rotates frequently, ensuring new discoveries with each visit. Plan to dedicate at least 2-4 hours to fully experience this treasure trove of nostalgia.

1208 Grand Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50265

Watch & Clock Junction

Expert repairs and knowledge
STORE FORMAT
Single Owner Shop
STORE SIZE
Boutique Shop
PRICE RANGE
$$
SPECIALTIES
WatchesClocksRepair Services

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Technical expertise
  • Restoration of sentimental timepieces
  • Reasonable pricing

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Long wait times for complex repairs
  • Occasional repair quality issues

Watch & Clock Junction is a specialized timepiece shop offering expert repair services and sales of new and vintage watches and clocks. Their skilled technicians handle everything from simple battery replacements to complex antique clock restorations and house calls. Most customers visit for quick repairs, though some browse their curated selection of quality timepieces from various brands. Known for knowledgeable staff and craftsmanship.

5785 Merle Hay Rd, Suite 1, Johnston, IA 50131

West End Architectural Salvage

Unique/interesting inventory
STORE FORMAT
Single Owner Shop
STORE SIZE
Vast Warehouse
PRICE RANGE
$$$
SPECIALTIES
ArchitecturalFurnitureDecorative Items

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Exploration experience across multiple floors
  • One-of-a-kind architectural finds
  • Relaxed browsing with coffee/drinks

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • High prices
  • Hot upper floors in summer

Housed in a historic four-story building, West End Architectural Salvage offers an immersive treasure hunt through floors of unique architectural elements, salvaged materials, and custom-built furniture. The main floor features a coffee bar/café where visitors can grab a drink before exploring stained glass, vintage doors, industrial pieces, and repurposed decor. Perfect for design inspiration or finding that one-of-a-kind statement piece for your home renovation project.

22 9th St, Des Moines, IA 50309

Collectamania

Variety of unique items
STORE FORMAT
Multi-Vendor Mall
STORE SIZE
Vast Warehouse
PRICE RANGE
$
SPECIALTIES
CollectiblesVintage/PrimitivesDecorative Items

WHAT CUSTOMERS LOVE

  • Finding unexpected treasures
  • Nostalgic/retro items
  • Vast selection

AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT

  • Organization/cleanliness issues
  • Inconsistent pricing

Collectamania is a massive indoor flea market with hundreds of vendor booths sprawling across multiple levels. Formerly a bowling alley, this treasure hunter's paradise requires several hours to explore properly. Visitors will find everything from vintage collectibles and retro games to furniture and nostalgic memorabilia. Prices vary by booth, with many offering discounts of 25-75%. The sheer volume of merchandise ensures something for everyone, though serious shoppers should wear comfortable shoes and plan for a lengthy visit.

3200 Delaware Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313