Thrifting In New York City — The Lexington Line

Thrifting in New York is more than just shopping; it is an experience. In my opinion, it is the best way to get to know your way around the city and find your personal style. Whether you are looking for unique designer pieces, vintage clothing, or a one-of-a-kind staple garment, the city offers endless options. Below are some of my favorite spots in the city— each tried, tested, and loved.

THRIFT stores

2nd Street

This is my first choice when I want to go thrifting, but I do not have time to fully commit to a full thrift experience.

2nd Street NYC offers a mix of vintage, designer, streetwear, and everyday pieces, making it one of the most loved thrift stores among New Yorkers. With several locations across the city, the Lower East Side, SoHo, and DUMBO locations stand out as the most popular.

Each store is known for its thoughtful curation, with racks that are well-organized and easy to browse. It is a must-visit for anyone exploring New York’s second-hand scene!

Beacons Closet

Beacon’s Closet is a Brooklyn-born thrift store that quickly won our hearts—and believe me, it never disappoints.

Similar to 2nd Street, it is known for its mix of vintage, designer, and contemporary secondhand pieces. The price point runs slightly higher when compared to other thrift stores, reflecting a more selective curation.

With multiple locations across the city, the Williamsburg, Greenpoint, and Greenwich Village stores are the most visited and known for having a better curation.

Buffalo Exchange

I like to think of Buffalo Exchange as a true treasure hunt—you never know what you will find until you walk through the doors.

Unlike a more curated thrift store, Buffalo Exchange focuses on everyday pieces, while still offering some designer items, recycled clothes, and one-of-a-kind garments. The price point is very affordable compared to other vintage and thrift stores, making it one of my go-to spots.

They have locations all around New York, including Williamsburg, Chelsea, and the East Village. Be ready to leave with something completely unexpected and fun!

L Train Vintage

This is my favorite vintage store in the whole world. If you love finding cheap clothes in perfect condition, this store is definitely for you.

L train is a beloved thrift store chain known for its unbeatable prices and massive selection. Different from the other thrift stores, it focuses more on volume rather than curated pieces. Its racks are full of denim, flannels, graphic tees, outerwear, and plenty of unexpected finds—all budget-friendly.

Especially popular among students and young New Yorkers, L Train’s multiple locations across Brooklyn and Manhattan make it the go-to spot for purchasing secondhand pieces without breaking the bank.

East Village Thrift Shop

This is one of those hidden gems that truly captures the spirit of thrifting in New York. It may not be the most curated or neatly arranged store, but for those who know how to dig, there are treasures to be found.

Different from other known stores, this shop is quite small. You can browse the entire space without feeling overwhelmed—even if it is a bit messy at times. What makes it stand out most is its affordability. Say goodbye to overpriced secondhand pieces—this spot is one of the most budget-friendly thrift stores in the city!

FLEA MARKETS

DUMBO Flea Market

The DUMBO Flea Market is one of the city’s most iconic open-air markets. It is a good place to go thrift not only clothing, but also antiques, collectibles, and accessories. The market brings together multiple vendors, so the selection is constantly changing depending on the day you go.

Located at the Archway under the Manhattan Bridge (80 Pearl Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201), the market is open every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM—though hours may vary for special events or holidays.

Visiting the flea market also makes the perfect excuse to spend the day exploring DUMBO. From walking across the Brooklyn Bridge with its amazing Manhattan views to discovering galleries, cafés, parks, and food markets, the neighborhood itself is as much of a destination as the market.

Chelsea Flea Market

This Flea market is another must-visit if you love thrifting. It is known for its fantastic selection of antiques, vintage clothing, jewelry, and collectibles. Like the DUMBO Flea Market, vendors are constantly changing, so every weekend the selection offers something new.

The market is located at 29 West 25th Street, between Sixth Avenue and Broadway, right in the heart of Chelsea. It is open every Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, providing ample time to browse the stalls and search for unique treasures.

Grand Bazaar NYC

The Grand Bazaar NYC is New York’s largest weekly curated market. You can find vintage clothing and accessories, handmade jewelry, antiques, and artisanal goods. The Grand Bazaar offers a lot of unique designer pieces, unlike the other markets mentioned above.

Located on the Upper West Side at 100 West 77th Street (at Columbus Avenue), the market is open every Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Proceeds from the market benefit local public schools, making shopping here feel even more meaningful.

So, what are you waiting for? Thrifting in New York is the perfect excuse to explore new neighborhoods, discover new cute cafes and restaurants, and maybe even find your next favorite piece. Every store has its own story, and the hunt is half the fun—so get out there and start exploring!