To kick off a new year, we recently headed down the highway to do some shopping in Columbia, SC. Now, Columbia isn’t all that far away from me. And I don’t really know why I waited so long to explore the vintage/junking scene there!
Because there are some really amazing antique stores, vintage shops, consignment shops, and thrift stores in Columbia, SC.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Speaking of which, ready to see where I went and what I loved? This post was written in 2017 but has been updated in 2024 to reflect new stores and store closures for accuracy.
Antique and Thrift Stores in Columbia, SC
Of all the antique stores that were recommended to me, this is the one store that had universal praise. So, not only did I put it on our itinerary, but we hit it the moment we rolled into Columbia, SC. And let me tell you, we were NOT disappointed!
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I loved just about every booth in this shop- which has recently moved into a new, larger space. The vibe is VERY retro and mid-century modern, but would appeal to anyone with funky, eclectic tastes.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Refind is definitely my favorite antique shop in all of Columbia, and I’ll DEFINITELY be returning here whenever I’m in town.
The Old Mill Antique Mall is a pretty famous antique store in Columbia, SC, and was by far the most crowded of any of the shops we visited. If you go, set aside a lot of time because there is a LOT to look at here. Two stories filled to the brim with everything you can imagine.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I do, however, highly recommend parking in the back and checking out the connected furniture repair shop. That’s where I found every single treasure we took home from this antique mall in Columbia, SC.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Full disclosure, I’ve been to this antiques store in Columbia, SC several times before! In fact, Ivy House is where I purchased the dresser that I discussed in my very first blog post. So, I have effectively come full circle!
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
BUT, back to the shop. Ivy House specializes in shabby chic/cottage and retro treasures. So if that’s your game, then it should definitely be on your Columbia, SC shopping itinerary.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Now, it wouldn’t be a junkin’ journey if I didn’t hit at least one animal-charity-based thrift shop, right? So it had to be 4Paws, previously known as St. Paws. While they have plenty of clothing, I always go for the housewares. And there are usually plenty of older treasures tucked in here and there, just waiting for me to find them!
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
*****
Have You Gone Junkin’ in Columbia?
We honestly ran out of time to hit everything I had wanted to see. But, I’ve heard really great things about the following shops, as well:
- B & L Antiques
- Thrift Avenue Thrift Shop (also benefits an animal welfare charity!)
- Palmetto Thrift
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
As you know, stores open and close all the time- and at the time this was first written (January 2017), these were my favorite antiques, vintage, consignment shops, and thrift stores in Columbia, SC.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Now that several years have passed, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Are there new antiques stores or thrift stores in Columbia that I should check out?
Explore on!
S
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Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
Always, always fun to read of junkin’ journeys. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Rita!!
I haven’t been to Columbia in ages! I’m from York,SC. Going to Belmont, NC today antiquing!
Fun!!!! I’ve been to Clover and York, cute little towns!
Thanks for taking us along on your junkin’ journey!
You are so very welcome, Kat!
Virginia is close! Come to Norfolk. I know a few places but I.m not aware of any that support animals and wish I did. I will look into that! Thanks for that bit of information!
Thanks, Linda!!
I’m thankful that you are paving the way, so to speak. I live in southeastern NC, and I have traveled to visit Donna of Distressed Donna Downhome in western SC for some junkin’ pleasure. I also have a cousin in Columbia that we visited while in that area. We didn’t go to the thrift/antique stores in that area, though. Now, I have a good reason to visit that area again.
I have been mapping out my area. Hopefully, I will be able to share that information when I get a new blog started. Soon, I hope.
Love Distressed Donna Downhome! We keep talking about “Riding the Ridge” together…someday, I hope! 🙂
You would have a wonderful time. She’s a sweetheart!
Thanks so much for coming to Columbia and sharing about some of my favorite places!!! Sorry that I missed seeing you, but next time you’re in town, I’d love to treat you to lunch!!!
We definitely need to catch up- I’ll definitely have more time next go-around when I’m not hustlin’ from shop to shop. So it is a date!!
Wow, if I could visit this shop, i would be in hog heaven
Which one, Ivory? I’m guessing ReFind but there are a few to choose from. 😉
Was so happy when I turned on my computer and saw that you had gone on another junkin’ trip. I went and got a cup of coffee and got ready for the trip. I have made notes and a list of the shops that you go on each trip. I was so happy when you got in South Carolina. Can’t wait for the next trip. Go to Virginia and hit the back roads or you can save those for the Fall. The mountains, not the beach side. Thanks and let’s go.
Thank you, Betty!!! Virginia is definitely at the top of my list. 😉
My favorite in Columbia is Old Mill. I see a couple I have passed by in recent trips. I am still awaiting riding the Ridge with you. Have you been to Statham, Georgia?
They all look like such wonderful places to explore!
Lots of goodies that I would have to let come home with me!
I live in West Columbia, SC and love to go junk in’. You gave me some great ideas for several places I haven’t visited. Thanks!
I’m so glad, Mary Sue! Happy junkin’!!
Wow…what fun places! 🙂
I would love for you to share this with my Facebook Group for recipes, crafts, tips, and tricks: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pluckyrecipescraftstips/
Thanks for joining Cooking and Crafting with J & J!
Thanks for sharing. I now a junkin rush. Definitely putting this trip on my list.
Woohoo!! 🙂
We’re building a house (ack!) And I’m looking for vintage style sinks and tubs…any recommendations? We live about 30 min out to Columbia, but would love to take a little trip if its worth the drive :). Thanks!
Are you looking for vintage-style? Or actual old pieces?
I don’t really have a preference, just wherever I can get the best deal 😀
Unfortunately, I have no idea about “new” products, as I buy secondhand whenever possible…sorry!!
This look like a place I could spend the day in looking around, and shopping at I would be a kid in a candy stôre. Thank you for sharing this
The Red Lion Antique Mall in downtown Columbia is a must stop! 1929 Hampton
Thank you!! I’ll have to check it out next time I’m in the area- appreciate the suggestion so much!