Itinerary for Antique Lovers
Calling all antique shoppers. We’re making the case that you should choose Wisconsin Dells for your next antiquing getaway, and it’s an ironclad case if we do say so ourselves!
Treasure hunting is not a one-size-fits-all adventure. Some like the thrill of the chase that comes when combing through booth after booth at large antique malls. Others prefer a more boutique experience, zeroing in on shops where they feel confident they’ll have success tracking down a particular trinket on their wish list. A love of history helps but is not a requirement. With all that said, let’s dive into the variety of antique stores in Wisconsin Dells.
Antique Mall Wisconsin Dells: A Great Starting Point
Serious antique collectors know and love the Wisconsin Dells Antique & Craft Mall, a collectors’ dream come true that opened just over 25 years ago on the outskirts of Wisconsin Dells. Here you’ll find more than 250 dealers specializing in an inventory of furniture, art, jewelry, home décor, and vintage items of all kinds. If you’re looking for a unique gift for that difficult-to-shop-for person, let’s just say you’ve come to the right place. Open seven days a week, with inventory changing all the time. You’ll feel good about “upcycling” that new favorite purchase while supporting the small businesses with booths here.
The other half of this complex is the Craft Mall, billed as the largest in Wisconsin, with 300 artisan vendors in this portion of the property. You’re sure to walk out with a handmade item or a piece of farmhouse chic. You might even find items to create your own home décor project to transform your garden or porch.
Refreshment Break While Shopping Antique Stores in Wisconsin Dells
Broken Bottle Winery is conveniently located next to the Wisconsin Dells Antique Mall, so mosey on over for a sampling of Wisconsin-made wines in their spacious tasting room with its two 28-foot tasting bars. Nosh on some light bites too – the warm pretzel is served with three different dipping sauces, and there are flatbreads and pizza offerings too. With its relaxed vibe and rustic ambiance, Broken Bottle provides the perfect break from all that intense antiquing.
Wisconsin Opry is famous for its dinner-and-a-show format. Enjoy a hayride and a home-cooked meal in the beautiful Wisconsin countryside. The historical roots of this country music show on the farm featuring the Dickinson family fit the antiquing theme to a T. It’s another neighbor to the antique mall and with shows at noon, 5 PM or 6 PM, it’s an easy detour from a full day of shopping.
Pop-up Antique Markets During Wo-Zha-Wa Fall Event, Sept. 15-17
There are two ways to antique shop during the annual autumn festival, Wo-Zha-Wa. Enjoy a special antique shopping experience on Sept. 16: Virgil’s Art & Vintage Market at Wisconsin Dells Antique & Craft Mall featuring outdoor pop-up vendors, adding to the hundreds of vendors inside the mall. Tony – The Carver in the Dells, who specializes in chainsaw carved wildlife sculptures, will also be onsite for the event.
Then head downtown Dells, where you’ll find both an arts and crafts fair and an antique flea market, available for perusing all three days of the weekend event. Downtown shops also participate in Maxwell Street Days festivities with sidewalk sales you won’t want to miss.
Antique Stores Wisconsin Dells: Three More Finds
Why stop at one antique destination when there are three more to peruse.
Five Sisters Antiques and Collectibles, located on Superior Street in downtown Wisconsin Dells and with a boutique atmosphere, has fashion finds, rare antiques, jewelry, and collectibles. All proceeds support the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Wisconsin Dells. The Society also operates the St. Vincent de Paul Society Thrift Store on State Road 16 just outside downtown.
Parsons Indian Trading Post & Museum is a rare find, a place to learn about Native American culture and history on the museum side of the building, after which you can stroll to the adjacent shop to purchase Native American art, crafts, and pottery. Family-owned and operated since it was established in 1918.
Old Time Photos That Look Like a Treasured Antique
Here’s an unexpected idea for all you antiquers: Book a photo sitting at one of the area’s old-time picture studios – there’s Capone’s Original, Old Abe’s, and Prof. Porter’s. Dress up in era-specific frocks surrounded by props that look like they were sourced from a kitschy time capsule. Then display your portrait in front of that antique home décor item you scored during your visit to the Dells.
One Last Piece of Advice
Leave room in your suitcase or the trunk of your car for the treasures you can’t live without because you’re sure to find plenty in Wisconsin Dells.
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