New York City, a vibrant tapestry woven from the dreams and histories of its inhabitants, brims with a treasure trove of boutiques and stores, where the stories of myriad epochs nestle among the collectibles. Navigating this magnificent urban labyrinth, you’ll find gems waiting to be discovered—each store a unique microcosm of nostalgia and fascination. Here, we embark on a journey through ten exceptional collectibles stores across various neighborhoods, each characterized by its own allure and charm.
1. Mastodon
Address: 10 E 6th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 673-3516
Website: mastodonnyc.com
Mastodon rises like an artistic beacon in the East Village—a sanctuary for the eclectic collector. This whimsical shop teems with an array of vintage paraphernalia—records, toys, and obscure art pieces. The ambiance resonates with the echoes of the past, enticing you to delve deeper into its curated collection, each item a narrative waiting to unfold.
2. Rags-a-Go-Go
Address: 171 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021
Contact: (212) 987-7730
Website: ragsagogo.com
A kaleidoscope of vintage wonders, Rags-a-Go-Go invites you into an enchanting world of fashion history. Nestled on the Upper East Side, this vintage clothing store whimsically transcends time. Frocks, accessories, and eclectic memorabilia create an experience akin to rummaging through a stylish time capsule. Each item offers a glimpse into the sartorial splendor of bygone eras, ensuring that the past continues to inspire the present.
3. The Strand Bookstore
Address: 828 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 473-1452
Website: strandbooks.com
As a veritable labyrinth of literary treasures, The Strand weaves together history and knowledge in an enchanting dance of words. This iconic bookshop is famed for its “18 miles of books,” housing rare volumes, first editions, and exquisite collectibles among its timeworn shelves. The air thrums with the wisdom of countless authors, evoking an irresistible magnetic pull to uncover hidden gems that speak to one’s soul.
4. The Little Candy Store
Address: 171 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 533-6804
Website: littlecandystore.com
Step into a confectionery wonderland at The Little Candy Store, where nostalgia mingles with sweetness. With its expansive selection of retro candies and whimsical toys, it evokes the innocent joy of childhood. Nostalgics and collectors alike will find delight in the treasure trove of vintage packaging and candies that have withstood the test of time, casting spells of nostalgia as they taste the past.
5. Greenlight Bookstore
Address: 686 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Contact: (718) 246-0200
Website: greenlightbookstore.com
In the heart of Fort Greene, Greenlight Bookstore stands as a literary oasis amidst the bustling excitement of Brooklyn. The shop not only offers a carefully curated selection of new releases and beloved classics but also features collectible signed editions and literary memorabilia. Here, the vibrant community brings the pages to life, transforming the mere act of browsing into a compelling exploration of narrative richness.
6. Schiller’s Liquor Bar
Address: 131 Allen St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 475-2240
Website: schillersnyc.com
Schiller’s Liquor Bar is more than just a place to savor a sophisticated cocktail; it boasts a captivating collection of antique barware and vintage spirits. The ambiance transports visitors to a bygone era of speakeasies and glamorous soirées. Collectors will find themselves entranced by unique glassware and bottles that tell tales of indulgent revelry and forgotten times.
7. You What?!
Address: 58 E 8th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (917) 484-4458
Website: youwhat.com
Hidden within the maze of Greenwich Village, You What?! is a marvelously quirky shop that defies conventional collectible classifications. Housing an amalgamation of art, clothing, and vintage curiosities, it evokes the spirit of a fantastical dreamscape—each display a vibrant tableau inviting exploration. Expect the unexpected as you peruse items that redefine the notion of collectible art.
8. Forbidden Planet
Address: 832 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 473-1576
Website: forbiddenplanet.com
A haven for geeks and pop culture enthusiasts, Forbidden Planet is the quintessential destination for collectible figures and memorabilia. Nestled in the heart of the city, it pulsates with the heartbeat of comic book and sci-fi culture. The shop is a veritable Aladdin’s cave for fans, filled with action figures, graphic novels, and all manners of unique collectibles that transport you to the realms of imagination.
9. The Vintage Twin
Address: 451 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018
Contact: (914) 263-9720
Website: thevintagetwin.com
The Vintage Twin, an enchanting blend of sustainability and style, offers a remarkable collection of curated second-hand fashion and accessories. Each piece embodies a story, fostering a philosophy of reuse and reinvention in the chicest of presentations. The allure of the Vintage Twin lies not just in its aesthetic; it’s an invitation to contribute to a more sustainable fashion future amidst a backdrop of delightful treasures.
10. What Goes Around Comes Around
Address: 351 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 966-0000
Website: whatgoesaroundnyc.com
With a name as poetic as its offerings, What Goes Around Comes Around is a treasure chest of vintage luxury fashion and collectibles. Located in Soho, this boutique reverberates with the essence of haute couture from years gone by. With a discerning eye for quality and style, it presents an exclusive array of iconic brands and statement pieces that resonate with the dreams of fashionistas and collectors alike.
As you traverse through these unique corners of New York City, you will unearth not merely items, but narratives entwined in the very fabric of each collectible store. In a city characterized by its ever-changing skyline yet steadfast in its historical connotations, these stores serve as vibrant vessels carrying echoes of the past into the future, continually inspiring collectors to cherish the artistry and stories that make life whimsical. Whether you seek a vintage dress, a rare book, or an obscure toy, these stores are not just shops—they are gateways to infinite tales waiting to be experienced.
