Thrifting, Antiquing, and Bargain-Hunting on the Commuter Rail

Shopping can be a hobby for many, and many people love finding unique things that suit their aesthetic. Designer clothing, vintage furniture, and cool collectibles are things many long for, yet believe are out of reach due to price or not knowing where to look. However, when you know where to look for high-quality, second-hand goods, you’ll be amazed at the unique statement pieces you can find. Thrifting and antiquing have been gaining popularity as a way to be more environmentally sustainable in a fast-fashion world without breaking the bank.

That’s where the Commuter Rail comes in. Along several of the lines are incredible thrift shops, antique malls, and consignment stores. Here you can get designer outfits, vintage home goods, and classic vinyl records for a fraction of the price. You’ll save even more money when you get the $10 Weekend Pass. It gives you unlimited rides throughout the weekend and even holidays. This means you can fight the environmental impact of fast fashion without needing to burn gas or money, either. Go green with purple and see how many thrift shops on each line you can visit in one day!

Newburyport/Rockport Line

Gloucester

100% volunteer-run, Cape Ann Thrift Shop (0.4 mile) is where you can find home goods, used books, school supplies, and a small selection of shoes and clothing for affordable prices. Whether you’re a college student furbishing your dorm or a person who simply loves a bargain, this thrift store is a must. The hours on Saturday are limited so make sure to get there early.

Manchester

The great thing about consignment shops is that you’re getting both high-quality used items and the previous owner gets a cut of the profits, so everyone wins. The Stock Exchange (0.2 mile) is a premier North Shore destination for discerning shoppers and consignors. Shoes, clothes, and bags from designers like Gucci and Prada can be found as well as great seasonal items.

Rowley

Todd Farm Antiques and Flea Market (0.7 mile) is a local favorite of shoppers and collectors alike. The house and barn are open year-round, and both are filled with multiple shops and dealers offering antiques, vintage collectibles, artistic pieces and repurposed furnishings. Meanwhile, the flea market is open every Sunday (weather permitting) 5 am to 2 pm from April until November. Be aware that most of the vendors are cash-only, so come prepared.

Beverly

Beverly Bootstraps (0.1 mile), offers an exciting and ever-changing array of high-quality, gently-used clothing and household goods available at great prices. They provide low-cost necessities to those in the community who need them and those who enjoy a good deal. Within the thrift shop is also Boutique at 198. It’s a section featuring women and men’s upscale shoes, handbags, clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Here, customers can shop high fashion for low prices while contributing to the Beverly Bootstraps mission.

Salem

Salem has a lot of great stuff for thrifters and those who love a good deal for a great cause. Bargain hunters will find everything from high-end vintage treasures to gently used household items to last season’s name brand clothes at Lifebridge Thrift Shop (0.5 mile) while providing funding to Lifebridge’s programs. The Salem Flea Marketplace (0.4 mile) is an LGBT-owned business that brings together an ever-changing community of vendors for fresh vintage finds, unique gifts, and handcrafted goods.

Meanwhile, there are tons of consignment shops within a mile of Salem Station. Re-Find Salem (0.1 mile), Witch City Consignment (0.3 mile) Clever Diva (0.6 mile), and Complements Consignment (1.1 miles) offer fabulous finds at a fraction of the retail price. It’s ideal if you’re a bargain hunter who loves experimenting with style.

Back Bay

Castanet Designer Consignment (0.4 mile) is a hidden gem on Newbury Street. This second-hand shop stocks designer clothing from the wardrobes of the best-dressed women in the city. It was even awarded the title of “Best Luxury Consignment” in 2023 by Boston Magazine. So if you’re looking for an Alexander McQueen dress or Brunello Cucinelli ensemble that won’t break the bank and is better for the environment, this is the place to find previously-loved designer merchandise.

Needham Line

Needham Center

Want fashion that will make you look and feel great? Closet Exchange Consignment (0.2 mile) has a wide selection of beloved brands in contemporary styles that will add some fun personality to your wardrobe. Plus, the store supports worthy causes. At the end of the resale period, any unsold and unclaimed pieces are liquidated or donated to local charities that directly benefit women in need. 

Roslindale Village

Established in 1926, The Thrift Shop of Boston (0.2 mile) is the oldest thrift shop in the city. For nearly a century it’s been dedicated to supporting the community. It sells the highest quality clothing, furniture, household goods, books, jewelry and artwork donated by considerate owners. All of this has provided over $1 million in financial support for The Home for Little Wanderers.

North Station

With five floors and over 150 dealers, the Cambridge Antique Market (1 mile) is full of amazing finds. Spend your day finding the best deals on second-hand furniture, artwork, fine silver, glassware, china, toys, books, vintage clothing, collectibles, and much more. With so many dealers and deals, you’re sure to walk out with a treasure trove of goods for your home.

Haverhill Line

Haverhill

Clothes and furniture aren’t the only things you can get second-hand at a great quality. Welfare Records (0.2 mile) offers over 3000 vinyl records of all genres of music, including pre-owned albums in great quality. They also buy and sell mid- to high-end audio equipment, so the music-makers out there can experiment with their next new song.

Lawrence

Discover 40,000 square feet of fabulous antiques at the Canal Street Antique Mall (0.4 mile). Open seven days a week, you’ll find great bargains for furnishing your home. Check out mid-century modern and farmhouse style furniture, home decor, vintage clothing and jewelry, and re-purposed accent pieces. You’ll be able to give your home a unique pop of personality at great prices while keeping furniture out of landfills.