Antiquing in Willow Glen
For those who love to spend the weekend exploring antique shops, Willow Glen has a long history of being a hotspot for vintage finds. In 1977, there were no less than fourteen antique and collectible shops in the town, some of which were in private homes. Today, there are four such shops in the heart of downtown offering a collection of vintage furnishings, décor, jewelry, and clothing.
Park Place Vintage
1318 Lincoln Avenue
parkplacevintage.com
Specializing in 20th-century furnishings, men and women’s clothing, and other antique finds, Park Place Vintage is the destination for all things 1950’s. They specialize in collectible items such as comic books, signs, phones, books, magazines, toys, radios, and cameras as well as vintage fabrics and sewing patterns. And, if you are looking for a wedding dress that makes a throwback statement, Park Place has a selection of wedding gowns from the 1920s through the 1960s. And, to top it off, the owner is a skillful dressmaker who can design a custom vintage wedding gown and bridesmaids’ dresses to match. Open every day except Mondays.
“My favorite place to visit when I’m in downtown Willow Glen. This shop is not like any other vintage shop I’ve been in. They actually took time to arrange and organize everything. You really feel like you’re taking a trip back in time.” Yelp review by Jen A. of Redwood City.
Three Sisters
1393 Lincoln Avenue
Three Sisters is a lively mix of old and new, blending different eras to achieve a truly eclectic offering of antiques and collectibles. The owners create unique and interesting vignettes in the store every few weeks to create an inspiring shopping experience. They also have some stellar home décor and furnishing finds, including coveted mid-century modern pieces. Open daily, Three Sisters recently placed #3 on Hoodline’s Top Four List of antique stores.
“Whenever I’m visiting Willow Glen’s Lincoln Ave, I always make it a point to stop into Three Sisters. It truly is my favorite vintage boutique store. Carol, the owner/proprietor masterfully decorates her beautiful store throughout the seasons and it’s truly eye candy walking in. You’ll find vintage home décor, glassware, elegant lady’s hats, jewelry, colorful oilcloth, garden items in their back patio, and much, much more.” Yelp review by Sue S. from San Jose
Whatnots and Doodads
1330 Lincoln Avenue
whatnotsonline.com
Ranking #2 on Hoodline’s Top Four list, Whatnots and doodads is a cooperative of twenty-three dealers offering an impressive collection of keepsakes, gifts, furnishings, artwork, and well, whatnots and doodads. Open Tuesday through Sunday, antique lovers will relish the hunt for that something special as they peruse the store.
“What a wonderful neighborhood gem! My husband and I recently moved to the Willow Glen neighborhood and stumbled into the store totally unplanned one Saturday afternoon. We were looking for unique furniture pieces to furnish our place and boy, this place did not disappoint! They have an awesome collection of charming vintage items.” Yelp review by Aditi G. from Willow Glen
The Willow Glen Collective
1349 Lincoln Avenue
willowglencollective.com
Established in 1981, the Willow Glen Collective features wide selection of items offered for sale by multiple dealers. Open daily, this -co-op collectors paradise has a wide selection of antique jewelry, children’s toys, Fenton glass, hand-painted china, pottery, artwork, linens, and a plethora of small treasures.
“I have to give this fun store 5 stars. Check out the store, it will take you a while as there is so much cool stuff in there! If you don’t see what you’re looking for, talk to Barbara and she just may find it for you!” Yelp review Diana E. Draper UT
If you are looking to go antiquing but want to stay local, Downtown Willow Glen is your ticket to vintage wares. These four shops are sure to offer hours of treasure-hunting fun!