Nashville has no shortage of great antique shops. Most are located just south of downtown, on Eighth Avenue South. Start driving south, and you’ll find shop after curated shop of interesting vintage treasures just waiting to be picked. Here are a few of my favorites:
Downtown Antique Mall. Don’t let the graffiti or gravel fool you. This un-airconditioned warehouse space next to the train tracks can occupy you for hours with its maze of interesting century-old wares, furniture and décor. Each stall within the large warehouse is operated by different antiquers, so know that you’re still allowed to haggle. The market owners will call the operator of that stall and present your offer.
GasLamp Antiques (and GasLamp Too). Slightly more pricey, GasLamp Antiques offers a wide range of eclectic goods in two large facilities located within walking distance of one another. GasLamp and GasLamp Too (its younger, and much larger sister store) both boast fine vintage jewelry, furniture, light fixtures, art and more. Again, plan to spend several hours perusing the various taxidermy, instruments, books and treasures.
Antique Archaeology. Though its’ become something of a tourist trap, Antique Archaeology, is Mike Wolfe’s (of History Channel’s American Pickers) Nashville outpost. Though the line often stretches around the block on weekends, inside, you’ll find a host of goodies once lost, now found, thanks to careful nation-wide dumpster and garage diving. After you peruse the pickings, make sure to stop in at Bang Candy Company for some housemade marshmallows.
