There’s something special about visiting a general store. After all, we Americans spend far too much time among the aisles of massive supermarkets, often leaving long-standing family establishments in the dust. When you’re ready to step back in time during your next shopping experience, venture to these delightful general stores in the United States.
This lovely destination claims the title of America’s oldest continuously operating general store, as it first opened its doors in the 1790s. When you stop in for a visit, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a long-gone era. Indulge in delicious meat at the on-site smoke shop, try a tasty sandwich, or pick up a bottle of locally harvested maple syrup for the road. There’s a sense of history here that can’t be beat.
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The Brick Store is located at 21 Lisbon Rd., Bath, NH.
Situated just a stone’s throw from the stunning shoreline of Lake Michigan, this small but mighty shop has a little something for everyone. Stock up on Michigan-themed gear, enjoy a mouthwatering pot pie, or explore a variety of gifts and books. When you spend time at the Good Hart General Store, you’ll quickly feel like family - and you’ll certainly be back for a return visit.
Good Hart General Store is located at 1075 N Lake Shore Dr., Good Hart, MI.
In operation since 1927, this Florida gem has remained in the Bradley family for four generations. The shop’s dedication to service and quality is evident immediately upon arrival, as each amazing product is carefully prepared with flavor and flair. Try Bradley’s famous smoked sausage, pick up a few basic grocery products, or enjoy a delicious jar of apple butter. What’s not to love?
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Bradley’s Country Store is located at 10655 Centerville Rd., Tallahassee, FL.
Satisfy your sweet tooth during your journey to this marvelous general store, which offers incredibly delicious pecan pralines, a vast array of candy items, and an on-site soda fountain. From toys to greeting cards, there’s plenty to keep you occupied as you peruse this locale, which will immediately transport you back in time to a simpler, sweeter era.
Jefferson General Store is located at 113 E Austin St., Jefferson, TX.
5. End of the Commons General Store (Mesopotamia, OH)
This Amish general store offers bonafide penny candy, which is sure to excite customers of all ages. As if that weren’t enough, it also houses delicious beef jerky, old-time novelty toys, bath and beauty products, and so much more. Situated in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, End of the Commons General Store might just be the most charming spot you’ve ever set foot in.
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End of the Commons General Store is located at 8719 OH-534, Mesopotamia, OH.
We’ve mentioned a few must-visit general stores, but we want to hear your top recommendations for charming little shops that have stood the test of time. Be sure to leave a comment below!
Thrifting is a treat like no other. Don't believe me? Then I have to assume you haven't tried it... thrifting truly is the ultimate treasure hunt! Today, we're going to take a virtual visit to an enormous thrifting destination in Ohio that you have to see to believe. Valley Thrift Store in Kettering, Ohio is about half the size of the White House. Seriously. At around 30,000 square feet, this massive store is overflowing with treasures. It's worth a road trip if you're not in the area, so check out our road trip essentials list to make your journey to the Greater Dayton Area especially comfortable. A massive treasure hunt awaits!
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At first glance, Valley Thrift Store in Kettering looks like any other thrifting destination.
Valley Thrift Store has been coveted by locals for years, and word has even spread to out-of-towners. What's so special about it, you ask? Well, it's in an unsuspecting strip mall... but it is the strip mall. The entirety of the space in this building is dedicated to thrifty finds.
Before you even step inside, the busy parking lot will hint at just how much space Valley Thrift Store has.
You'll frequently find a full parking lot at this enormous thrifting destination in Ohio. Amazing, despite the frequent traffic, this space doesn't feel particularly crowded.
Inside, circa 30,000 square feet of treasures await your keen eye.
I just love thrifting... it always feels like a treasure hunt. You never know what wonders await, but winding through shelves and racks presents ample opportunity for hidden gems to surface. At Valley Thrift Store in Kettering, there's something wonderful hiding around every corner.
As with any good thrift store, the bulk of their offerings are clothing.
If you're a bit reluctant to go thrifting for clothing, consider the benefits rather than the thought that someone else once owned the clothing. In addition to lessening the environmental impact of fast fashion alternatives, you can also find sought-after designer goods at thrift stores. Personally, I have a handful of favorite brands I keep my eyes peeled for, but I've saved thousands of dollars by thrifting my designer and name brand clothes.
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Valley Thrift Store also has knickknacks, tchotchkes, household appliances, and so much more.
Recently, I've found myself hooked on uranium glass. This collectable glass gets its name from the use of uranium in its creation, and it glows under UV lights. Whenever I see shelves filled with dishware, I get the little blacklight on my keyring ready. Uranium glass is just one of many wonders you might find here! Crystalware, Pyrex, porcelain, and earthenware await sharp-eyed shoppers.
The toy and boardgame selection is another incredible draw.
Hosting a game night? There's no need to break the bank! The selection at Valley Thrift Store in Kettering is incredible, and many of these boxes are unopened. You'll be amazed by the treasures you find here!
From furniture to collectibles, there's all sorts of treasure awaiting shoppers here.
There's truly something for everyone at thrift stores, whether they're 30,000 square feet or a humble corner store. You'll never know what treasures await until you dive in, so get ready to take the plunge.
Next time you're in Kettering, Ohio, make a trip out to the area's biggest thrift store.
You'll find it at 1717 Woodman Dr, Kettering, OH, 45420.
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This enormous thrifting destination in Ohio is truly incredible. With thousands of square feet of selections, there's no shortage of discoveries waiting to be made. Have you ever visited Valley Thrift Store? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
While you're in Dayton, you have to make a trip over to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. It's the largest and oldest military museum in the world!
Autumn is the most nostalgic season; a time of back-to-school and new beginnings, fall harvests and annual festivals. It's a season that's filled with memories and nostalgia, and that's a feeling we'd like to embrace today. Across the country, there are charming, old-fashioned general stores that are a nostalgic trip back in time, offering visitors the opportunity to step inside their weather-worn doors and enter another time and place. Experience the simple pleasure of a good, old-fashioned general store at these long-standing shops across the country.
Randsburg General Store was built a year after gold was discovered in the 1890s, and it's an authentic glimpse into the heyday of the California Gold Rush. Located just off Highway 395 in Kern County, Randsburg offers a living snapshot of what a real California mining town once looked like. Visiting the quiet community today, you'd never guess it was once a bustling town of 3,000 miners and their families. These days, Randsburg is a historic town that invites visitors to come and see what life was like in the Old West. Its main street is filled with old structures and historic sites, including the longstanding Randsburg General Store, a community cornerstone since 1896. Known for its long, old-fashioned counter, antique backbars, and active malt machines, this old store is a blast from the past, delightful day trip, and a real-life history lesson, all rolled into one nostalgic package.
McKenzie General Store & Obsidian Grill Restaurant - McKenzie Bridge, Oregon
About an hour east of Eugene, McKenzie Bridge is a small mountain town of about 13,000 that's a true Oregon treasure. Located within striking distance of the McKenzie River and Willamette National Forest, it's the perfect base camp for adventure seekers that's less crowded than popular towns such as Mt. Hood and Bend.
The town is reminiscent of a European alpine village, especially in the middle of winter. And this is due, in no small part, to the beguiling little general store at its center. Since 1932, McKenzie General Store has been serving the good people of Central Oregon, providing a place for sustenance (the burgers? Insanely delicious.), supplies, and fellowship. As a state with ties to Wild West and Gold Rush, Oregon certainly has its share of old-time general stores. But McKenzie General Store is so much more than a mere store; it's an experience -- and one that continues outside its four walls.
With an extensive mining history and Route 66 running straight through the state, Arizona is home to numerous old-fashioned general stores. From the iconic Hackberry General Store in Seligman to the Cameron Trading Post just outside the Grand Canyon, nostalgia abounds in these longstanding destinations. Another winsome old favorite is Oatman General Store, tucked away in a dusty old ghost town most people have forgotten about. It’s over a century old, and the type of place where, from inside its dusty windows, you might see tumbleweeds drifting down Main Street (which, if you ask us, only adds to its authenticity). Although ownership of the store has changed hands many times over the years, current owners John and Bonnie Nowak have breathed new life into Oatman General Store by stocking the shelves with a small inventory of hot sauces and other groceries that have turned this old-timer store into a cult favorite. Today, the selection has grown so much, you could easily spend hours perusing the old wood shelves, which, to us, sounds like a marvelous adventure.
In a state that often equates "bigger" with "better," Jefferson General Store is proof positive that the simplest, humblest places are often the best. This charming East Texas general store is housed in a circa-1860 building that was originally a hardware store and today is filled with all sorts of trinkets from the past. You’ll see an old-time candy counter, antiques, a working jukebox (bring a nickel), and even a soda fountain where you can enjoy a root beer float or ice cream sundae. Indulge your sweet tooth *and* nostalgic side at this East Texas treasure.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Nelson's Old Riverton Store is a delightful destination for the young and old, made famous on the silver screen for its appearance in the credits and bonus footage of Disney's "Cars" movie. The store has been around since 1925 and is the oldest of its kind in the state that’s still in existence. Due to its convenient location on Route 66, it's a great destination for travelers in need of a rest stop. Although the gas pumps out front are long gone, the rest of the store looks much as it did decades ago, and still sells groceries, deli items, fresh flowers, and all sorts of snacks and knick knacks.
While South Dakota is best known for its natural features (and its manmade monolith), the Wall Drug Store is pretty much an unofficial landmark. This drug store, which started off as a place to get free ice water in 1931, is now a popular roadside shopping destination. Here, you can grab a bite to eat and a cup of coffee for just five cents. You can also shop for the kitschiest souvenirs, such as jackalope statues, bumper stickers, shot glasses, and cowboy boots.
Marine General Store - Marine on Saint Croix, Minnesota
You won't find friendlier folks than the ones behind the counter at Marine General Store, a longstanding institution in Marine on Saint Croix, Minnesota. A must-visit for anyone who enjoys Minnesota history, the store was opened in 1870, making it the oldest continually operating general store in the state. Visiting is like stepping back in time, in all the best ways. Inside, you'll find plenty of evidence of the store's age; the main area has wooden walls lined with old memorabilia, antique tools, and more. Pony up to the deli counter for a fresh-made sandwich or cookie, and be sure to visit for the July 4th fireworks. The store sits at the heart of the community's annual celebration; the owner even hands out glow sticks and folks can relax on the porch, just like they did in the good, old days.
It's impossible not to feel delighted when visiting Elsah General Store, a blissfully simple store well-stocked with wall-to-wall shelves of old-school goodies and nostalgic candies. You’ll want to spend hours in this hidden gem, reminiscing about simpler times of going to the store for some penny candy or a wooden game. Don’t pass up a trip to this little store that’s filled to the brim with old-fashioned items that will have you embracing an innocent, simpler time, Moon Pie in hand.
Lake Michigan is a bucket-list adventure in and of itself, and when you visit the town of Good Hart, Michigan, you can experience an extra-special dose of history. In operation since the 1930s, Good Hart General Store is a delightful throwback that's wholly embraced by the town, also serving as the local post office. In addition to picking up groceries, baked goods, and souvenirs, you can -- and should -- buy some of the Good Hart General Store‘s world-famous pot pies. These savory, meat-filled pies have been a staple since 1986, and are, in our opinion, worth the trip alone.
End of the Commons General Store - Mesopotamia Township, Ohio
Tucked away in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country awaits a fascinating historic landmark. End Of The Commons General Store is the oldest of its kind in the Buckeye State, and is a true step back in time. Since 1840, this business has served both residents and visitors alike by selling provisions, local goods, gifts, sweets, and more. In addition to its old-school delights, End of the Commons General Store is rumored to sell the best fry pies in the state -- and possibly, the world.
Rabbit Hash, Kentucky, is a tiny little town with a very, very proud history and identity. A community cornerstone since 1831, Rabbit Hash General Store is a perfect slice of Americana where house wares and antiques, artwork and one-of-a-kind items fill worn wood tables and solid oak shelves. This Kentucky general store is one of the oldest in the state, and a place Rabbit Hash residents hold near and dear to their hearts. Over the years, the store has faced numerous challenges and hurdles, including several floods that threatened the store's very foundation. The beloved general store also suffered from a devastating fire in 2016; an event that could have signaled the end of this historic place.
But through all of these challenges, the community rallied behind its beloved cornerstone, helping the store emerge stronger and better than ever. This is the heart and soul of America at its finest, and why Rabbit Hash General Store truly belongs on your bucket list.
With its cheerful red door and green-and-white striped awning, Floyd Country Store is the Platonic ideal of general stores. A gem of a destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Floyd's Country Store has existed for over a century. In 1910, a business by the name of Farmer’s Supply opened its doors, and the building has been serving residents and visitors alike ever since. A delightful time warp, inside the shop, barrels of old-fashioned candy will take you back to simpler days, while the bakery counter will tempt your taste buds. If you have a bit more time, be sure to settle in for a made-to-order sandwich, which will surely hit the spot. And while the Floyd's is famous for its charm and history, it's the Friday Night Jamboree that really puts this place on the map. The Jamboree is a musical tradition that has stood the test of time. Local and regional musicians perform on the store's historic stage from 6:30 until 10 p.m., and all are invited to dance and sing along, partaking in a delightful piece of Virginia history.
The Vermont Country Store might be the most iconic old-fashioned general store in the U.S., its delightful red building a fixture in the idyllic New England town of Weston since 1946. Today, the store is owned by Lyman Orton and sons Cabot, Gardner, and Eliot, 7th & 8th generation Vermonters, and 4th & 5th generation storekeepers. Classic toys, Vermont-proud goods (including the state's legendary maple syrup), beautiful decor and novelty items, quality wares, and made-in-America supplies -- you'll find it all here. While our lives seem to be run by technology these days, it’s nice to know that there are a few places where things are still pure, simple, and wholesome. The Vermont Country Store is one of those places where you can take a step back in time and wander around a space that is filled with good, old-fashioned fun.
Sometimes, the most memorable experiences are the simplest. Indulge your nostalgia and visit one of these historic and beguiling old general stores across the U.S. -- it will be an experience you won't soon forget.
