Thrifting is one of the best things to do on a hot or rainy weekend in the summer in Sarasota- you can get away from the heat, it’s inexpensive, and a fun way to give back to the community!
Thrifting Downtown
Downtown Sarasota is a great spot for thrifting- there are 20+ thrift stores in a few miles downtown (Note- they aren’t all walkable to downtown- you will need a car). I recommend picking a few favorites and breaking up the day with a meal- we split our day with brunch at Station 400 last Saturday and it was the perfect way to break up the day!
I couldn’t find a full list of all the thrift stores online, but Apple Maps makes it very easy- there are a lot of choices when you search- even four or five stores grouped together within the same few feet. Read on for my personal favorites!
Can’t Miss Thrift Stores
Finding the best thrift store can be very subjective- my favorites are best on the current items I’m shopping for and I also love to shop at a thrift store that is for a good cause!
Sarasota Architectural Salvage
Sarasota Salvage is the coolest thrift store in Sarasota- you can spend hours exploring! It’s a bit more salvage than classic thrifting, but perfect for uncovering a hidden gem. I posted a reel with a tour on my Instagram. It’s a bit on the pricer side but a great way to start your day of thrifting- you truly never know what you will find.
Habitat for Humanity Restore
I love Habitat and supporting such a great cause. This Restore is great for second hand furniture and the prices are really good. I prefer to try a Restore before resorting to Facebook Marketplace!
Pel Consignments
Pel is a store that you can easily miss- it sometimes doesn’t even show on Apple Maps! We learned about Pel while shopping at the Habitat Restore (people in Sarasota are so friendly!). It’s all estate sale finds that are brought in by local buyers, so it’s great for high quality furniture and kitchen items. The prices are very reasonable as well, and if you hunt through you can find some great pieces. Last time we were there, I noticed a Peleton, a Kitchen Aid Mixer, and great quality furniture for good prices.
Pines of Sarasota Thrift Shop
Pines was a thrift store we stumbled into, but it’s where I ended up purchasing the most pieces! If you take your time, you will find a great Chinoiserie section, kitchenware, decor, and even clothes…all for less than $10! It’s been a finalist in the Sarasota Herald Tribune’s “Best Antique Store Category.” Proceeds go to Pines of Sarasota, a not-for-profit senior care community serving residents.