Kansas City is known for its vibrant culture, delicious BBQ, a Super Bowl-winning football team (Go Chiefs!), and a thriving arts scene. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the abundance of thrift stores in the area. From vintage clothing to unique home decor, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. In this article, we highlight 16 of the best thrift stores in Kansas City, each with its own unique charm and selection.
For those who love a good bargain, thrift stores are the perfect destination. Not only do they offer affordable prices, but they also provide an opportunity to support local businesses and reduce waste. And with continuing inflation, the secondhand market is growing exponentially and expected to double by 2026, according to thredUp, an online resale marketplace.
Whether you’re a seasoned thrift store shopper or a first-timer, this list has something for everyone. From trendy boutiques to sprawling warehouses, each store has its own personality and selection of items. So grab your reusable bags and let’s explore the best thrift stores Kansas City has to offer.
Top 5 Thrift Stores in Kansas City
Kansas City is home to some of the best thrift stores in the Midwest. Whether you’re looking for vintage clothing, unique home decor, or one-of-a-kind finds, these top 5 thrift stores have got you covered.
1. River Market Antiques
Best for: This store is perfect for those who enjoy browsing for hours and discovering hidden treasures.
River Market Antiques is a favorite among vintage lovers. This store offers a wide selection of vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories, as well as antique furniture and home decor. The prices at River Market Antiques can be a bit higher than other thrift stores, but the quality of the items is worth it. With over 30,000 square feet of space, it’s easy to get lost among the vast selection here.
Pro Tip: Give yourself time to explore all 4 floors. It could take hours to see it all. Make a day of it by visiting the nearby Arabia Steamboat Museum, a literal sunken treasure recovered in 1988 after being lost for 132 years.
2. Maj-R Thrift
Best for: This store is great for those who are willing to hunt the racks for special items but want changing rooms and all items in decent shape.
Maj-R Thrift offers a wide variety of items, including clothing, furniture, and home decor. Their prices are reasonable, and all proceeds go to support their mission of helping those in need. You’ll find racks and racks of clothes here, but you can feel confident that everything’s in good shape. If you take the time to hunt for them, you’ll also uncover some nice brand names.
Pro Tip: There are five locations in the area, but if you’re looking for designer gems, check out the Leawood location in Johnson County, the highest income county in Kansas, where the donated items are a cut above the rest.
3. Clothes Mentor
Best for: This store is a haven for women looking for professional and designer clothing and accessories.
Clothes Mentor offers a wide selection of items at affordable prices, and their staff is knowledgeable and helpful. You’ll find designer and name-brand clothes (many new with tags) at a fraction of their retail price, and a wide selection of jewelry and handbags, even shoes, to round out your fit. Enjoy more of a boutique experience with helpful customer service who will help set you up in changing rooms and become a member to get sales alerts, reward points, and a coupon for your birthday month.
Pro Tip: Believe it or not, this thrift store has a free personal shopper option based on an online style quiz. Their website also includes a large selection for sale online for shipping or in-store pickup.
4. ReStore KC Habitat for Humanity
Best for: This store is a great first stop for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts.
ReStore KC Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit thrift store that sells new and gently used home improvement items. They have everything from furniture and appliances to building materials and tools. This store is perfect for anyone looking to spruce up their home without breaking the bank.
Pro Tip: Walk in with an open mind at the beginning of a home improvement project. You could snag a great deal on a new bathroom vanity or floor tile for a small area if you aren’t looking for something too specific.
5. Savers
Best for: This store is a good stop for those looking for discount clothing and household items in a clean environment.
Savers is a well-known thrift store chain with a location in Kansas City. They offer a wide variety of items, including clothing, furniture, and home decor. Their prices are reasonable, and they often have sales and discounts available.
Pro Tip: Nonprofit organizations can partner with Savers to fundraise for their cause. Spread the word to your supporters, collect gently used items that need a new home, and Savers will buy those items and pay your nonprofit directly.
Overall, these top 5 thrift stores in Kansas City offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a bargain hunter, vintage lover, or just looking for quality items at affordable prices, you’re sure to find something you love at these stores. But why stop there? Here are a few more options ranging from your typical warehouse store, those that support local charities, and those for more specialty items.
Best Warehouse Thrift Stores in Kansas City
These stores slot into the stereotypical thrift store category. Great options for discount clothing and household items with, but not a good chance of getting a steal on something truly unique or designer.
6. Thrift World
Best for: This store is the easiest destination for those on the east side of the metro since it’s technically in Independence, MO.
Thrift World is a unique thrift store that offers a wide selection of vintage and retro items, including clothing, furniture, and decor. They have a fun and eclectic atmosphere, and their prices are reasonable.
Pro Tip: Mind your calendar to make the most of their sales: Tuesday is 30% off for seniors, Wednesday is 30% off for military and first responders, and Thursday is 30% off for teachers.
7. Goodwill Outlet
Best for: If you’re willing to search through bins and take on a challenge for the sake of a great deal, this one’s for you.
Goodwill Outlet is a must-visit for anyone looking for great bargains. This store is perfect for bargain hunters who don’t mind digging through piles of clothing and household items to find hidden treasures. The prices at Goodwill Outlet are unbeatable, with items sold by the pound. You can find everything from vintage clothing to furniture, and even electronics.
Pro Tip: They don’t allow children for safety reasons, so plan accordingly.
Best Charitable Thrift Stores in Kansas City
You’re already doing a good deed for the planet by shopping for resale items instead of pumping all your money into the retail market. Multiply that social impact by frequenting nonprofit stores that donate their proceeds to worthy local causes.
8. The Salvation Army Family Store
Best for: This store is perfect for people looking to save money, reuse items, and support a good cause at the same time.
The Salvation Army Family Store is a great place to find gently used clothing, furniture, and household items at affordable prices. This store is perfect for families on a budget who are looking for quality items. The Salvation Army also offers a discount for seniors and military members, and there are several locations throughout the metro.
9. City Thrift
Best for: This store is perfect for those wanting to find something new each week, since they restock with thousands of new items each day.
City Thrift is a well-known thrift store chain with several locations throughout the Kansas City area. They offer a wide range of items, including clothing, furniture, electronics, and more. Their prices are reasonable, and they often have sales and discounts available. But what you might not know is that it’s a nonprofit and the proceeds benefit City Union Mission. Since 1924, City Union Mission has provided warm beds, nutritious food, and a place of safety for thousands of poverty-stricken and homeless men, women, and children.
10. Red Racks Thrift Store
Best for: This store is a great option for those wanting to support those who provide military service, since it’s owned and operated by Disabled American Veterans.
Red Racks Thrift Store is a well-organized thrift store with a great selection of clothing, accessories, and household items. This store is perfect for those who are looking for quality items at affordable prices. Red Racks also has a great selection of designer clothing and accessories. Some of the prices may be on the high side, but keep an eye on the daily sales and sign up for their rewards program.
11. Troost39 Thrift Store
Troost39 is committed to supporting the community of midtown Kansas City and the Troost Corridor. As a retail store, they offer low-priced, high-quality, essential household and personal items. As a nonprofit Catholic ministry, they assist those most in need, by partnering with social service agencies throughout the city.
No matter what cause or community you identify with, charitable thrift stores in Kansas City are here to provide you a new way to give back to the area.
Best Antique and Vintage Stores in Kansas City
Kansas City boasts a variety of antique and vintage stores, each with its own unique inventory and atmosphere. Here are a few of the best in addition to River Market Antiques, which made it into our Top 5 list above:
12. Good JuJu
Best for: Perfect for those dedicated collectors willing to make a homage to this antique mecca.
Good JuJu is a vintage and antique store located in the West Bottoms. This store has a more bohemian vibe, with a focus on vintage clothing and accessories. The owner, Cecilia, has a great eye for unique pieces and is always happy to help you find something special. You’ll find two floors of mid-century modern and painted furniture, farmhouse style items, country store primitives, and more.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead. You’ve got a very narrow window to explore this treasure cause it’s only open one weekend a month, on “First Friday” weekends. Mark those first Fridays on your calendar and be sure to make the trip that day or the following Saturday. The inventory’s always fresh this way, but the lines start forming at 8:00 a.m., so you’ve got to be dedicated to get a spot.
13. Sentimental Journey Marketplace
Best for: This store is best for those looking for a typical antique mall experience with multiple vendors and new themes around every corner.
With over 14,000 square feet of high-quality antiques, beautiful vintage wears and age-old collectibles, this place still feels charming. Over 100 dealers have their original treasures on display just waiting for a place to call home.
Be on the lookout for vintage linens, vintage clothing, new vintage-inspired fashion, antique and refurnished furniture, and plenty of glassware and collectibles.
No matter what your style or budget, Kansas City’s antique and vintage stores have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for furniture, clothing, or collectibles, these stores offer a unique shopping experience that can’t be found at big-box retailers.
Best Specialty Thrift Stores in Kansas City
Kansas City is home to a variety of specialty thrift stores that cater to specific needs and interests. Here are a few of the best:
14. Clothz Minded
Best for: This store is best for those in the mood for high-end thrifting.
Clothz Minded bills itself as a buy, sell and trade boutique of name brand and designer apparel for men and women located in the heart of Westport. Their inventory is selective and they strive to keep their prices accessible to everyone. Check out this boutique experience the next time you need a fit for a special occasion.
15. Ditto
Best for: This store is best for those looking for trendy clothing at a fraction of the price.
Ditto is a recycled fashion retailer that buys and sells name-brand and designer clothing and accessories in the Kansas City and surrounding areas. They specialize in high-quality, name-brand resale fashion for trendy women, men, teens, plus sizes and maternity. Check out their impressive handbag selection.
16. Play It Again Sports
Best for: This store is best for those looking for fitness gear to round out their home gyms.
If you’re looking to expand or upgrade your fitness or team sports equipment, make this your first stop. While not always the best bargains, if you do your research you can still get a deal.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of their fundraising program by having your team bring in used equipment, and all items purchased will be credited towards your group.
Pick Your Next Thrifting Adventure
Yes, Kansas City is a treasure trove for thrift store enthusiasts. With a wide variety of stores to choose from, shoppers can find unique and affordable items while supporting local businesses.
From the upscale and trendy to the classic and vintage, each store has its own unique charm and selection. The top 16 thrift stores in Kansas City offer a diverse range of options for shoppers of all tastes and budgets.
Overall, Kansas City’s thrift stores are a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and community. By shopping at these stores, visitors and locals alike can support sustainable fashion and reduce waste while discovering hidden gems.
FAQ for Kansas City Thrift Stores
Where does Kansas City rank on the list of best cities for thrifting?
With resale making such a resurgence, Kansas City is one of the top thrifting experiences in the country, coming in at Number 20 according to StorageCafe, an online platform that provides storage unit listings. There are 5 resale stores for every 100,000 people in the Kansas City metro, with 27% of those venues being on the large size, and the average household in the area spends $131/year.
What are the typical shopping hours for thrift stores?
Most thrift stores in Kansas City operate flexible shopping hours for the convenience of customers. Typically, they are open from 9 AM to 9 PM, allowing ample time for customers to browse and shop. However, it is advised to check individual store websites or social media pages for specific hours since they may vary.
What neighborhood has the best thrift stores in Kansas City?
In Kansas City, the thrift store scene spreads across many neighborhoods such as Shawnee, Waldo, Blue Springs, and Metcalf Avenue. This makes it convenient for shoppers to find a location close to them and the search for “best thrift stores near me” totally worth your time. These stores are constantly updating their inventory with new material as they receive donations from people in the community.
What items can I donate to Kansas City thrift stores?
Clothing Donations: When donating clothes to Kansas City thrift stores, it’s essential to ensure the items are clean, gently used, and in good condition. Many thrift stores, such as City Thrift, accept various types of clothing, including seasonal attire, shoes, and accessories. By donating your unwanted clothes, you support life-changing programs and make a positive impact on your community.
Furniture Donations: Furniture donations are another excellent way to give back to the community. Many thrift stores accept furniture items in good condition, such as tables, chairs, beds, and sofas. When donating furniture, it’s crucial to ensure the items are clean, free from significant damage, and suitable for reuse. To donate furniture in the Kansas City area, check with the thrift store to confirm their specific guidelines and drop-off procedures.
Household Items Donations: In addition to clothing and furniture, Kansas City thrift stores often accept household items, such as pots and pans, glassware, linens, and small appliances. Donating these items helps promote recycling and reusing goods while supporting local non-profit partners, as mentioned by Thrift World. Before donating household items, ensure they are clean, functional, and in a condition that others can use and appreciate. Reach out to your local thrift store for specific information on acceptable items and donation guidelines.
What community impact do thrift stores have in Kansas City?
Thrift stores in Kansas City play an essential role in supporting the local community, particularly for lower-income families and individuals experiencing homelessness. By providing affordable clothing, furniture, and household items, these stores help bridge the gap for those struggling to meet their basic needs.
One example is Goodwill Mokan, a non-profit organization in Kansas City that uses the funds generated from its thrift stores to create job opportunities for the community. For every dollar spent at one of their stores, approximately 88¢ goes back into programs for job training and employment services.
Another thrift store, City Thrift, encourages community members to donate items or volunteer their time to support their cause. The store is a valuable resource for affordable used clothes, furniture, toys, and more, which further aids local families in need. Additionally, they host an annual camp with a Christ-centered atmosphere for children from particularly disadvantaged backgrounds.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City drives positive change in the community by partnering with Savers Thrift Stores, accepting donations of used clothing and household items. This collaboration generates funds that enable the organization to serve more children and families in need.
Finally, the Troost39 Thrift Store is another excellent example of a community thrift store in Kansas City. They offer affordable items for purchase, contributing to the local economy and attractiveness of the Troost Avenue area.
Where else can I shop for secondhand bargains in Kansas City?
In addition to thrift stores, Kansas City offers a variety of other shopping options for bargain hunters and those interested in unique, secondhand items. This section will explore consignment shops, flea markets, and garage sales in Kansas City – a few of which are highlighted in the article above.
Consignment Shops: Consignment shops are another option for those looking for quality items at a lower price. These stores work by selling items on behalf of the original owner, who receives a percentage of the profits. Consignment shops often carry a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home items, with a focus on quality and unique pieces. Kansas City has several reputable consignment shops, offering both vintage and contemporary styles.
Flea Markets: Flea markets provide a more informal and adventurous shopping experience compared to thrift stores and consignment shops. They gather a diverse array of vendors selling secondhand and vintage items, handmade crafts, and other eclectic goods. Kansas City is home to a few popular flea markets, where visitors can spend hours browsing through the numerous stalls and booths. Keep an eye out for local event calendars, as flea markets often operate on a seasonal or monthly basis.
Garage Sales: Garage sales offer the opportunity to discover hidden treasures and one-of-a-kind items at great prices. These sales are organized by individuals or families who are looking to declutter and sell their unwanted belongings. In Kansas City, garage sales can be found throughout the city with the help of online listings, community bulletin boards, or simply driving around on weekends. Be prepared to negotiate prices and go early for the best finds.
When shopping at thrift stores in KC, keep in mind to be patient and take your time exploring the inventory. The selection and availability of items can vary each day, making it a thrilling adventure for shoppers. So whether you’re looking for a vintage piece of clothing or a unique piece of furniture, spending time perusing the best thrift stories in Kansas City will be nothing short of rewarding.
