Michigan is known for its history of manufacturing automobiles and furniture. While you won’t think of Michigan as a state full of great design right away, I can promise you it is. To prove it, here are the best antique stores in Michigan for you to visit.
Most of my life is spent in real estate sales, antique shops, and secondhand bookstores. The smells are very unique and they bring back many memories. In fact, one of my favorite things about traveling is stopping into antique shops because a great antique shop will tell a story about the area. Old items can tell you about the history of the people who lived there or the work they did to build a town. However, visiting antique stores while traveling in Michigan is a great way to learn more.
Below I’ve rounded up some of the best antique stores in Michigan as well as some great shows and events that you might not want to miss during your travels.
Antique shops and malls
Wilson Antiques
This is without a doubt my top pick for antiques in Northern Michigan. This location in downtown Traverse City has 4 floors and 2 mezzanines of production to explore. The clothing section also stands out like old records and postcards. The rotating spaces are always artfully arranged in a variety of styles from Mid Century to classic Americana. This is one of my favorite places to wander on an afternoon when it’s raining in downtown Traverse City.
Address:123 S. Union Street,
Traverse City, Mi 49684
Communications: (231) 946-4177
Visit their website for more information
Antiquities Warehouse
If you’re looking for unique large pieces for your home, this spot in the warehouse district of Traverse City is your top stop. They also have a lot of smaller items, but this place has antique doors and furniture that is very sturdy and ready for another life. The space is highly managed and can also be checked on their website. I highly recommend stopping by to see if you need something unique for your home.
Address: 229 Garland St.
Traverse City, MI 49684
Communications: 231-943-2121
Visit their website for more information
Western Michigan Antique Shopping Center
This antique mall is located between Traverse City and the Grand Rapids area. At more than 12,000 square feet, it’s a huge antique shopping center with vendors and stalls so you can stroll through some of the best selection of items along the coast near Grand Rapids . Focusing on highly collectible items, this is perfect for those looking for collectible items of all kinds.
Address: 13279 168th Ave
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Communications: (616) 842-0370
Visit their website for more information
Bay Antique Center
It is one of the largest antiques centers in Michigan with more than 60,000 square feet and over 100 qualified dealers. This is the best place to find the best antiques in the state. You’ll have the unique opportunity to shop the entire antique city in this massive mall featuring some of the best antiques in Michigan. They carry everything you can imagine, from antique furniture to lamps and dolls to primitive to marine items. There’s a little something for everyone at this wonderful Antique Centre.
Address: 1010 N. Water Bay City, MI 48708
Communications: 989-894-0400
Visit their website for more information
Detroit Antique Shopping Center
This place is perfect for those who are looking for unique hardware, lighting and fixtures for a home. There is a lot of hardware and lighting. There are also quite a few vintage MCM items they carry at this location in an old brick building. It is classic Detroit in every way and boasts over 12,000 square feet of space with multiple dealerships to offer all possible diversity.
Address: 828 W. Fisher Fwy,
Detroit, MI 48201
Communications: (313) 963-5252
Visit their website for more information
Lost and Found GR
This antique store with a focus on vintage and vintage furniture is a must-see in the Grand Rapids area. Grand Rapids has a deep history in the furniture industry, especially in the mid-century modern area. That means you will find a lot of products from this area in this store. If you are looking for classic and unique furniture for your home, this is a must visit!
Address: 445-499 Century Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Communications:
(616) 732-3401
Visit their website for more information
FAIRY FAIR EVENT ONLY
Utica Antique Market – Fair event held in spring and autumn
This market gets crowded twice a year in southern Michigan and is not to be missed if you’re looking for some of the best antique dealers in the United States. This is a 100% outdoor gig and the market is full of incredible dealers. The entrance fee is $5 for a day. There are over 100 qualified antique dealers at the market.
Address: 11541 21 Mile Rd, Shelby Township, MI 48315
Communications: 586,254.3495
Visit their website for more information
Midland Antiques Festival – Fair event held twice a year
More than 1,000 antique dealers were established at the event at the Midland County Fairgrounds. Admission is $10 to get in for a day. This antique event has been held for more than 50 years and is home to the largest auto show in Michigan. It’s also one of the largest swap meetups in Michigan. Exchange encounters are places where you go and trade items with other people of all kinds.
Address: 6905 Eastman Ave., Midland, MI
Communications: 989-687-9001
Visit their website for more information
Petoskey Antique Show – Fair event held in July and August
Held at the Emmet County Fair, this antique store is one of the best in Northern Michigan. With over 140 qualified vendors selling antiques, you won’t miss this great show. The entrance fee is $10 to enjoy the show for one day. Antique dealers come from across the United States to share their best Michigan antiques in one spot.
Address: 1129 Charlevoix Avenue, Petoskey, Michigan 49770
Communications: 231.313.4424
Visit their website for more information
Inference
Visiting the best antique stores in Michigan is a great way to get to know the towns and places you’re visiting. The owners know a lot of the wonderful history of the area and you can discover unique gifts and things during your visit to help you remember the trip you just had.
