Antiquing Adventure: Branson

By Wayne Jordan

Branson, Missouri, captures the heart of Americana. It’s where you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American history, culture, and artistry. From the “chicken-pickin’’ of country guitar to the nostalgic treasures found in antique shops, every corner of Branson echoes with stories of the American journey. The city’s vibrant theater scene brings these stories to life with performances that honor the nation’s past and celebrate its spirit. Whether it’s a foot-tapping country music show, the soulful inspiration of gospel or Motown favorites, or the thrill of discovering a vintage artifact, Branson offers an engaging and patriotic experience connecting visitors to America’s roots.

Collectible Americana Defined

Americana in antiques and collectibles encompasses items that characterize the United States, its people, and its culture. Traditionally, Americana collectors have focused on flags, bald eagles, needlework, and historical items. However, items don’t need to be old to be categorized as Americana. Americana consists of cultural artifacts that represent the American experience. The American experience is broad and may include anything with historical, cultural, or nostalgic significance to the American journey. A hand-carved bald eagle is Americana, but so is Elvis; both have cultural relevance. They offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing individuals to touch, see, and even own a piece of American history.

Immersive Americana

The cultural experience in Branson is “immersive Americana.” A day of antiquing in Branson can be an unforgettable mix of treasure hunting, cultural enrichment, and entertainment. As you meander through the quaint antique shops, each item tells a story of America’s rich history and diverse heritage. The variety is endless, from vintage Americana memorabilia to classic vinyl records to rustic farm tools. Each piece holds a unique narrative waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a collector, history buff, or simply looking for a fun day, Branson’s blend of cultural experiences promises a memorable journey through the heart of Americana.

Here’s an itinerary that encapsulates the best of Branson for antique lovers who also crave a taste of the local culture and entertainment:

Morning: Antiquing Adventure

Start your day in Historic Downtown Branson. The Historic area encompasses downtown Branson, Branson Landing, and the surrounding areas. It is bordered by the Wolf River in the east and Lake Taneycomo on the north. The Theater district, home to many entertainment venues, lies west of the Downtown.

Historic Downtown Branson has several hundred businesses, including restaurants, retail shops, outdoor activities, and unique attractions. It’s easy to get around by riding Sparky, the free Downtown Trolley. The area is a goldmine for collectors, with over a half-dozen well-stocked antique shops.

At 114 N Commercial St., you’ll find the 417 Vintage Market. Housed in a 100-year-old building, the expansive “417” has three floors and thousands of square feet of carefully curated collectibles, décor and furnishings. Each floor showcases a nice mix of home goods, curated vintage, and distinctive antiques; it’s a delightful location with well-thought-out merchandising. While you’re there, enjoy a pick-me-up at their cafe, Commercial Street Coffee: keep your energy up for an active day ahead.

You’ll find Bratton’s Uniques and Antiques about one block west of the 417 at 120 N. Sycamore. The shop’s elegance is impressive. It is renowned for displaying an assortment of Branson’s finest antiques, including statues and figurines, art, jewelry, crystal, and the like. You won’t be disappointed.

There’s so much to see at the 417 and Bratton’s that you may be tempted to spend all morning exploring them. But leave time to explore the other Downtown antique shops. Each offers well-curated selections of antiques, collectibles, and memorabilia reflecting the rich history of Ozarks Americana.

Midday: Cultural Immersion

When you’re ready for lunch, mosey about a block south on South Commercial Street to number 103, where you’ll find Clocker’s Café. You can enjoy classic American comfort food in a quaint American setting. The menu features traditional comfort foods like prime rib sandwiches and biscuits and gravy. Don’t be surprised if you see a local celebrity: Clocker’s is a favorite entertainer hangout.

Afternoon: More Antiquing and Cultural Exploration

The vintage Vault & Mercantile, at 204 Veteran’s Blvd., is one of Downtown Branson’s newer additions. Started in 2021 by Susan Bramsch, the shop offers an eclectic mix of vintage and new items and local artists’ work. In 2023, the shop was voted “Best Antique Store” and “Best Home Décor” by readers of the Branson News. This is a downtown shop you don’t want to miss.

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

When you’re through antiquing, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Branson Landing waterfront and stop at one of the dozen restaurants in the Landing for a bite. You’ll find fare for every palate, from pizza to gourmet choices like Paula Deen’s Southern Kitchen and Guy Fieri’s Branson Kitchen & Bar. While you’re in the Landing, enjoy the spectacular fountain show, set to music, lights, and fire, and maybe even catch a live performance in the outdoor amphitheater.

Top the Day with a Show

No Americana tour of Branson would be complete without a visit to the Americana Theater. Here, you can choose from productions like “Classic Country,” “Awesome 80s,” “Elvis: Story of a King,” Disney’s “Once Upon a Fairy Tale,” the “Best of Motown” revue, “Southern Gospel Sundays” and others. These performances entertain and educate audiences about American music’s rich history and evolution.

To get to the Americana Theater from Downtown, head west on W 76 Country Blvd. Along the way, you’ll see the theaters, amusement parks, and entertainment venues that have made Branson famous.

If you want to combine dinner with a show, check out the paddlewheel riverboat Branson Belle. Table Rock Lake provides a peaceful backdrop as guests cruise in an old-fashioned four-deck, stern-wheel showboat. On board, dinner guests can enjoy a full-fledged music revue while dining. The leisurely cruise lasts about two hours.

The Full Americana Experience

Branson blends the thrill of antiquing with cultural insights and entertainment, offering a well-rounded Americana experience. Whether you’re a dedicated enthusiast or a casual collector, Branson’s blend of history, culture, and fun makes it a perfect destination.

For more information about visiting Branson, contact the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 417-334-4084 or visit their website.

You may also like: 

Small Town…BIG Fun

Williamsburg: Where History and Antiquing Merge

Antiquing in the Heart of Gold Rush Country

Small Town…BIG FUN

Antiquing in picturesque Princeton, Wisconsin, proves once again that big things come in small packages. 

By Wayne Jordan

Nestled in the rolling hills of Green County, Wisconsin, lies the charming town of Princeton, a cultural heritage gem of only about 1,200 people worth exploring. You can easily spend a day — or three — browsing its historic downtown, popping into delightful mom-and-pop shops stocked with intriguing items, and enjoying small-town hospitality. Less than two hours from Milwaukee and 90 minutes from Madison, Princeton is one of the top shopping destinations in the state, boasting eclectic boutiques, antique stores, Amish shops and the largest outdoor flea market in Central Wisconsin.

Make a Weekend of It

With so many antique stores to explore, you’ll want to spend at least a full day antiquing in Princeton. Consider booking a room at a charming historic inn like the Gray Gables B&B or the Parlor Hotel on West Water Street. Doing so will allow you to start early, take breaks when needed and not feel rushed.

Once you’ve settled into your cozy accommodations, it’s time to embark on your Princeton antiquing adventure. Start your exploration by strolling along West Water Street, where about half of Princeton’s antique shops are conveniently located. These historic buildings instantly put you in an “antique shopping” mood.

Antique Archaeology

The thrill of the hunt drives antique enthusiasts. Even though the antique shops in Princeton are thoughtfully curated, antique shoppers never know what rare finds might be tucked away on a shelf. Be prepared to dig, sort through boxes, and uncover hidden gems. Once you spot something that catches your eye, speak with the proprietor to learn the item’s provenance and points of connoisseurship. You’ll find that Princeton antique dealers are well-informed and thrive on sharing their knowledge and stories. Of course, be ready to haggle; most shop owners are open to negotiating to make a sale.

When you need a break from hunting and gathering, grab lunch at the popular Buckhorn Bar & Grill.

Popular Antique Shops

As you stroll down Water Street, you’ll find antique shops filled with enticing antiques & collectibles. Check out the Princeton Garage at 441 West Water St. for furniture, primitives, collectibles, and glassware. Just steps away at 432 W. Water, Candi’s Corner displays a carefully curated mix of new and eclectic vintage finds. If home décor is your passion, don’t miss Dover Street Collected Home at 524 West Water St., a diverse vintage home decor shop.

A five-minute drive from West Water Street will get you to the MnM Antique Mall at 501A South Fulton St. You can rummage through 4,000 square feet of primitives, collectibles, toys (especially farm toys), glassware, shabby chic, and US coins and currency. Two blocks away at 328 South Fulton St., you’ll discover Woolbright’s River City Antique Mall, where you’ll find outstanding collections of gas & oil collectibles, plus hunting & fishing, advertising, stoneware, coin-operated, clocks, and jewelry items.

There are many more antique and vintage shops in downtown Princeton. The antique community is active, so new shopping opportunities occur regularly.

Princeton’s Flea Market

Every Saturday from April through October, the Flea Market sets up at Princeton’s City Park, just a short walk from downtown. The market is the largest outdoor flea market in Central Wisconsin and draws vendors and buyers from a multi-state area. The diverse mix of vendors — room for 180 booths — makes this venue genuinely spectacular. Traditional flea market booths, antique dealers, local craftspeople, and homemade food items coexist. You’ll find antiques, collectibles, vintage items, crafts, and assorted memorabilia. New vendors enter the mix every week, so many residents attend weekly to browse for unseen treasures and pick up fresh produce or baked goods.

The flea market is very casual, so come early and take your time browsing the variety of wares. Shoppers are urged to arrive by 6 a.m. The market is open until 4 p.m., but vendors begin packing up around one or two in the afternoon as the crowd thins out.

Admission and parking are free, and plenty of tasty food options are available. Local service clubs and organizations sell snacks, sandwiches, and beverages from the food stand at the park’s center.

Historic Homes and Walking Tours

To glimpse Princeton’s history, take a walking tour of the historic downtown and residential areas. You can do this as you move from shop to shop because many of the sites are in the downtown area. The tour’s nearly fifty sites are marked with historic plaques mounted on buildings or free-standing pedestals. The self-guided walking tour brochure provides details of the most significant properties. Access is available through your smartphone at www.princetonhistorictour.com. Included are Victorian homes, commercial blocks, and churches built in popular styles of the era, like Queen Anne and Italianate.

The Princeton Historical Society Folklore Museum, 630 West Water St., is a testament to the power of communities to shape history. They operate two museums — The Folklore Museum and the Stone House Museum — open to the public on Saturdays from April through October. Access is available by appointment for those visiting at other times of the year. Their carefully curated displays, interactive exhibits, and educational programs connect visitors to Princeton’s past. The information gleaned there enhances a visitor’s appreciation for the sights and culture of Princeton. Visiting the Museums will enrich your entire stay, so make it one of your first day stops.

A Memorable Experience

So, there you have it: a perfect weekend antiquing adventure in picturesque Princeton. You’ve explored hidden gems in the shops and at the flea market, visited historic sites, dined at friendly restaurants, and gained a glimpse into the cultural heritage of this charming small town. Memories of meandering Princeton’s quaint tree-lined streets will stay with you well after leaving the town behind. You’re sure to return home feeling enriched and inspired. Add antiquing in Princeton, Wisconsin, to your bucket list. The journey into its historic heart is one you won’t soon forget.

For more information on Princeton, the Princeton Chamber of Commerce website, email info@princetonwi.com, or call 920.295.3877.

You may also like:

Williamburg: Where History and Antiquing Merge

Antiquing in the Heart of Gold Rush Country

Williamsburg: Where History and Antiquing Merge

By Wayne Jordan

Walk with history while you shop for antiques in Williamsburg, Va.
John McDonnell/The Washington Post via Getty Images

Nestled in the heart of coastal Virginia lies the charming town of Williamsburg, a favored destination for antique enthusiasts. Williamsburg’s rich history and vibrant culture offer a remarkable antiquing adventure. You can explore an assortment of unique shops and add an extra layer of satisfaction to your experience by immersing yourself in the town’s cultural heritage activities. Step back in time as you peruse aisles of captivating artifacts that bridge the gap between past and present. To embark on an antiquing adventure in Williamsburg—a blend of exploration and stylish retail therapy—is to lose yourself in the quest for cherished treasures to grace your home. As you stroll down the cobblestone streets, you encounter living history museums and reenactments that transport you to America’s colonial era. You can immerse yourself in the daily life of the 18th century, witnessing blacksmiths forging iron, artisans meticulously creating pottery, and women efficiently spinning yarn. As you wander the streets, you’ll find many antique shops and boutiques, each with a distinct character and offerings. From vintage furniture and quaint collectibles to rare books and timeless artwork, there’s something to pique the interest of every antique lover. Take your time browsing through these hidden gems, uncovering hidden treasures and stories.

Learn While Exploring

Venturing into the stores of Williamsburg is an immersive experience. As you peruse household effects, artworks, pottery, and other remnants from the era, you’ll gain insights into how colonial people lived and worked. Williamsburg antique dealers are renowned for their expertise. They have a keen eye for quality and authenticity, so you can trust that you’re purchasing well-curated antiques. Conversing with shop owners can also enhance your grasp of the historical value of the items you inspect. Whether you are interested in history or enjoy decorating your space, antiquing in Williamsburg offers a shopping adventure and an educational experience.

Williamsburg’s rich history and culture make it a fabulous place for cultural heritage activities. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Historic Area

The Historic Area—also called Colonial Williamsburg—boasts an array of restored or recreated 18th-century buildings. You can explore government structures like the Capitol and Governors Palace, taverns, and shops. You will stroll along brick sidewalks through tree-lined streets while horse-drawn carriages amble along the avenues. Duke of Gloucester Street—also known as DOG Stree—serves as the main thoroughfare in Colonial Williamsburg. This charming street is home to stores showcasing a delightful collection of period furnishings, textiles, books, and artifacts.

Williamsburg’s Revolutionary City programs bring captivating tales from Williamsburg’s past to life. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

Colonial Williamsburg: This is the city’s main attraction and a must-visit. You can interact with the actors, attend historical reenactments, and participate in hands-on activities. The Fife and Drum Corps marches daily, and the Junior Corps parades on Saturdays.

Governor’s Palace: Once the official residence of the Royal Governors of the Colony of Virginia, it has been beautifully restored and filled with period furniture. The gardens are also worth a visit.

Bruton Parish Church: This church has been in continuous use since 1715 and is a great place to experience the colony’s religious history.

Ghost Walks: Williamsburg is known for its ghost walks, which offer a unique way to learn about the city’s legends while getting a few chills and thrills.

Nearby places to visit

Historic Jamestowne: This is the site of the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. Here, you can explore the original 1607 James Fort and the 1690s church tower and visit an archaeological museum where artifacts from the original settlement are displayed.

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown: This interactive museum tells the story of America’s founding, from the colonial period to the establishment of the United States, through exhibits, films, and outdoor living history. The Battle of Yorktown in 1781 was the decisive battle of the American Revolution, resulting in the surrender of Lord Cornwallis to George Washington.

Scenes from the night torchlight parade with the fife and drum corps as part of the Holiday
decorations and celebration in Colonial Williamsburg, VA, on December 6, 2017.
Photo by John McDonnell/The Washington Post via Getty Images

Williamsburg Winery: For a break from history, visit the Williamsburg Winery. Although it’s not a traditional “cultural heritage” activity, it still offers a taste of local tradition and flavor.

Noteworthy Antiquing

Merchants Square: Located in downtown Williamsburg, this busy shopping district is filled with delightful antique stores. Here, you can leisurely browse through furniture, art, books, glassware collections, and more. Kids will love The William Pitt Store, which specializes in historic games and toys that have delighted children and families for centuries, including wood games, dolls, miniature tea sets, and musical instruments.

The Prentis Store, also in Merchant’s Square, displays items made using 18th-century techniques. Handcrafted leather products, iron hardware, tools, reproduction furniture, pottery, writing instruments, seals, papers, and ink are all available.

The Golden Ball offers trendy, one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry and traditional accouterments crafted by their silversmiths. For memorable Virginia cuisine at Merchant’s Square, try the Tanglewood Ordinary for lunch.

Beyond DOG Street, the Williamsburg Antique Mall is worth the trip. Spanning 30,000 square feet of space at 500 Lightfoot Road in Williamsburg, this antique mall houses over 300 vendors, offering an eclectic mix of antiques and collectibles. From rugs to sterling silver items and retro toys to estate jewelry – it’s a browser’s delight. Open seven days a week, there are ample opportunities for treasure hunting.

An Antiquing Town Like No Other

Williamsburg is a stellar place to shop for antiques because it offers a unique blend of history, variety, quality, education, and beautiful surroundings. It’s not just about the antiques you’ll find, but also the unforgettable experience the city offers.

For more information on Colonial Williamsburg and its offerings, reach out to the Visitor’s Center at 101 Visitor Center Drive, Williamsburg, VA 23185, 888-965-7254, or visit the Colonial Williamsburg website.

You may also like: Antiquing in the Heart of Gold Rush Country

Antiquing in the Heart of Gold Rush Country

By Wayne Jordan

Ride the time train from the film Back to the Future 3 to the days of the California Gold Rush. Pan for gold, ride in a stagecoach, and browse a wide selection of antiques at over a dozen shops, malls, and vintage emporiums. Truly, the Jamestown-Sonora corridor in Tuolumne (pronounced too·aa·luh·mee) County, California, is a cultural heritage tourism area that shouldn’t be missed. For movie, antique, and history buffs, this adventure is well worth a trip to the mountains of California.

The location

Tuolumne County is a jewel in the heart of California. This gorgeous county, situated along California Highway 49 just two hours east of Sacramento, is one of the area’s legendary Sierra Nevada Gold Rush communities. The legacy of those days can be seen in picturesque towns such as Sonora and Jamestown, where visitors may step back in time to experience life in that gripping era. But Tuolumne County isn’t only about its history; this fertile region supplies fresh produce for markets throughout the state, and its vineyards create some of California’s best varietals. Tuolumne County is a must-see location for cultural heritage tourists seeking new adventures.

Cultural and Scenic Highlights

One could spend a month in Tuolumne County and still not experience all of it. With that in mind, here are a few highlights that will satisfy your urge for something old and different:

Yosemite

Although Yosemite National Park’s waterfalls are its most prominent feature, its almost 1,200 square miles are peppered with steep valleys, expansive meadows, and giant sequoia trees. It’s a truly stunning area, perfect for sightseeing, camping, and hiking. While you’re there, visit the Ansel Adams Gallery to view the park through the photography of one of America’s most famous artists. Who knows? You may become such a fan that you’ll start collecting Ansel Adams photos and books.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

In the late 19th century, railroads moved America. They hastened the western migration, and growth west of the Mississippi was fostered by railroads.

At the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, you can experience the thrill of traveling through Gold Rush country in a historical passenger car pulled by a vintage locomotive. The 45-minute excursion is led by a costumed tour guide who shares the area’s history and attractions as you travel.

Or, ride Sierra No.3, the iconic engine with at least 80 movie and television appearances to its credit. From 1919 through the mid-1990s, it was featured in films like “The Virginian” starring Gary Cooper, “High Noon” (again with Cooper), Clint Eastwood’s “Unforgiven,” and television shows like “Bonanza” and “The A-Team.”

When you return to the park, volunteer docents will treat you to stories about the development of steam engines, the railroad turntable, blacksmithing, and specialized tools and paraphernalia.

The “Movie Star Locomotive,” Sierra No. 3, resides in Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Photo: Visit Tuolumne County/Menka Belgal

Gold Country

Sometimes, having fun involves getting wet and dirty. You might enjoy panning for gold if you don’t mind a little water in your boots and mud on your hands. You might even find some gold nuggets! You’ll have fun and make some great memories even if you don’t.

Gold was discovered in Tuolumne County in 1848, concurrent with the big strike at Sutter’s Mill that kicked off the California Gold Rush. A few mines in Tuolumne County are still open and gold can still be found in local streams. If you’re unsure what to look for, several gold panning adventure businesses offer prospecting courses for aspiring miners who crave an authentic Gold Country experience.

Gold panning at Matelot Gulch Mining Co and Hidden Treasure Gold Mine in Columbia State Historic Park in Columbia, Calif. Photo: Courtesy Visit Tuolumne County/Menka Belgal

A Treat for Movie Buffs

Chances are good that you’ve seen Jamestown or other Tuolumne County locations on TV or film but didn’t realize it. Were you a fan of “Gunsmoke,” “Petticoat Junction” or “Bonanza?” The list is long — more than 200 films and television shows were filmed in and around Jamestown. Many of these are highlighted along Jamestown’s Walk of Fame, stretching from downtown Rocca Park to the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park.

Antique Shopping

The best cultural heritage adventures always include antiquing. That’s when you’ll find one-of-a-kind antiques, collectibles and stories shared by local dealers. I spoke with Mallory Barendregt, the owner of  Emporium Antiques & Espresso, about her store, its inventory and its history. Built in 1897, the Emporium building is a landmark in Jamestown. Barendregt’s grandfather operated a grocery store at the location beginning in 1936, and her family has operated businesses there for three generations. A review of her store (listed below) echoes my sentiments about her business.

The Jamestown-Sonora corridor boasts over a dozen antique malls, shops and vintage stores. There isn’t enough space here to list them all, so here are some online reviews of stand-out antique shops in the area:

Emporium Antiques & Espresso, Jamestown: Yelp 4 stars:

“This is probably the most interesting antique store in Jamestown. Generally, you’ll find older and higher-end antiques at this store than at any other antique store in town. (Even the building itself is interesting). The old wooden floors creak and crack as you walk upstairs, and the smell of coffee wafts through the air. (Yes, you can also buy coffee here, too). They’ve got everything from furniture to slot machines, antique signage, plates and glassware — a very nice selection. If you like antiques and are in town, you’ll definitely want to look here.” Reviewed by R.B., Turlock, Calif.

The historic Emporium in Jamestown, Calif., was built in 1897. It captivates visitors with great antiques and great coffee. Photo: Visit Tuolumne County/Menka Belgal

Time Travelers, Jamestown: Google 5 stars:

“My all-time favorite antique store in the area! They truly have such unique pieces and the workers have a heart of gold! Their personal stories made the experience and make shopping small a true treat!” Reviewed by J. Hewlett

Antiques Etcetera: Sonora, Google 4.3 stars:

“Wow. A trip back in time. You can find many different types of antiques here, such as clothes, books and other classic time pieces. Worth a visit even if you are not into collectibles.” Reviewed by W. O’Brien

Pine Tree Peddlers: Sonora: Google 5 stars:

“Top-grade cooperative sellers of distinctive finds, antiques, clothes, collectibles and more with lots of local mountain color…Pine Tree Peddlers is a must-visit (and repeat-visit) place for locals and tourists alike. One of Sonora’s local gems that define the city’s culture.” Reviewed by Exactly You.

Tuolumne County offers cultural immersion tourism at its best. It’s a cure for the stresses of urban living. So ride the time train and leave the big city behind.

Well, I must sign off. Doc Brown texted me to say he and Marty McFly will pick me up at the train barn shortly for a trip to — who knows where? It doesn’t matter. Riding that train will be the best part of the trip.

For more information on activities, lodging, and dining in and around Tuolumne County, visit their website at www.GoTuolumne.com. You’ll be glad you did.

Thrift Shop Tourism

In cars, on buses or while sailing the seas, Patti Clark, Florida’s Happy Thrifter, treats her guests like Resale Queens.

By Wayne Jordan

When Patti Clark stepped into an elevator aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise ship, she was dressed “to the nines” in her thrift shop cocktail dress. A woman behind her leaned forward and whispered into her ear, “I love your outfit, but you have left the price tag on.” Clark replied, “I know. I’m heading to our Minnie Pearl Happy Hour and Fashion Show. Everyone wears their favorite thrift store cocktail wear, leaving the price tags attached as a nod to comedienne Minnie Pearl.” Clark’s reply created a buzz among the elevator crowd, and suddenly everyone wanted more information about the thrifting group and what they were up to.

“What they were up to” was another Happy Thrifter cruise from Tampa to Cozumel, Mexico. It was a gathering of new and old friends brought together by their love of thrifting and a desire to have a lighthearted good time. The business tagline of Clark, a.k.a. The Happy Thrifter, is “We Put the Fun in Resale Adventures.” Browsing the photos on her website and Facebook page, it’s apparent that this is true. I’ve never seen so many genuine smiles and sparkling eyes. Says Clark, “We are so thrilled to now offer three ways — buses, cars and cruises — to participate in Thrift Shop Tourism.”

Thrift Shop Tourism

Bill Shafer, the host of the Emmy-nominated PBS series “Growing Bolder,” coined the phrase “Thrift Shop Tourism,” and the concept has taken root in Southwest Florida. Interviewing Clark, Shafer says, “It’s really never happened before where someone has connected all of these independent little shops in Tampa, and St. Pete, and Clearwater, and beyond, and created an outing, a safe way for everybody to get together, and socialize, and just have fun. You’ve invented Thrift Shop Tourism.”

Indeed.

A headline in the Charlotte County edition of Florida Weekly reads, “The Happy Thrifter tours turn shopping into a popular attraction.” Happy Thrifter Tours has become a media darling in Southwest Florida. They have been featured on Fox 13 Tampa Bay, WFLA News, WTSP 10, and over three dozen other newspapers, magazines, podcasts, and television broadcasts.

Stage One: The Newspaper

When Clark moved to Florida 20 years ago to care for her parents, she was already an established eBay seller. Southwest Florida was thick with resale shops, and she capitalized on the glut to keep her eBay store stocked. She made friends wherever she went — Happy Thrifter isn’t just her business name; it’s her life’s philosophy. Other shoppers would often remark, “Wouldn’t it be nice if there were a brochure listing all these stores?” Clark jumped on the idea. Leveraging her knowledge of local thrift markets, Clark created a brochure titled “The Happy Thrifter.”

The brochure has since grown into a full-sized newspaper listing resale shops from Ocala to Naples — about 450 of them. It is published four times yearly in two editions, one for the Greater Tampa Bay area and another covering Apollo Beach to Naples. Each edition is typically over 70 pages and contains merchant information, stories and advertising. It’s distributed free to the public at Happy Thrifter merchants, airports and visitor centers. Each edition includes a four-page pull-out map for personal auto touring titled “Road to Resale Adventures.” Patrons can use the map to plot a rewarding thrifting/resale route.

Stage Two: Motorcoach Tours

Early on, Clark shopped with friends, but her car was only big enough for four people. She often quipped, “Someday, I’m going to rent a bus and take everybody.” Thus began the Mystery Bus Tours. What’s the Mystery? On the first trip, patrons asked where the bus was going, and Clark shared the itinerary. Unfortunately, not everyone agreed on the destinations. On subsequent trips, Clark replied, “Where we are going is a mystery. The itinerary will be announced on the bus.”

Mystery Bus Tours happen on Thursdays. The coach picks up passengers — dubbed “Resale Queens” — in several cities. The bus makes four to six merchant stops daily, depending on the destinations. Stops are chosen from seventeen cities from Ocala to Naples. At these “shop until you resale drop” events, patrons are gone all day, from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Participants are asked to bring shopping bags and a suitcase, box, or lidded plastic tub for storing their purchases in the bus’ cargo area. The merchants provide snack trays, door prizes and discounts.

A luxury motorcoach full of like-minded people is just the beginning. Since Florida traffic sometimes moves slowly, there are movies, popcorn, and — for those who imbibe — wine (strictly BYOB) to fill the slow spots. The deal includes a catered lunch, gift certificates, door prizes, raffles and merchant swag bags. Best of all, merchants offer hefty discounts to participants — around 70%. At checkout, patrons show their Happy Thrifter wristbands to get the discount. The steep discounts on merchandise make the $84 bus ticket worth the investment.

Stage Three: Thrifting Trip Cruises

The third part of the Happy Thrifter Adventures is the “OH SHIP, Florida Girls Thrifting Trip” event. These four-night cruises depart from the Port of Tampa to the Western Caribbean or from Miami to Key West and the Bahamas.

Onboard activities are planned with the group in mind:

• Welcome meet and greet and group photo session
• Guest speakers sharing tips on reselling and thrifting
• Minnie Pearl Happy Hour and Fashion Show
• “Make Ship” free thrift store
• White Elephant gift exchange
• Game nights, including the popular
  Slot Pull Group Game
• Dazzle Duck Hide and Seek

The usual cruising amenities apply:

• Onboard meals all-day
• Swimming, dancing, and performances
• Port shopping

 

Local Tourism Success

Happy Thrifter events are in demand in Southwest Florida; the buses and cruises book quickly, and the newspaper has become an invaluable resource for thrifters. But thrifters aren’t the only ones that benefit — merchants and the organizations they represent have found a steady source of revenue in these events. In 2021, at the height of the pandemic, the Happy Thrifter buses kept running (applying the usual safety precautions). When Clark reviewed the tour results for the pandemic year, she learned that the 23 tours still generated $218,000 in revenue for her Happy Thrifter merchants.

Keeping the tours running smoothly is no small task; there are a lot of details to attend to. Clark’s degree in marketing and her years of experience as an event planner enable her to keep her team of 23 on track. Her team includes office and editorial staff, tour sales and support, tour guides, marketing and distribution.

Tourism is booming, as is the secondhand market. Worldwide, revenue from used merchandise is expected to reach $77 billion by 2025, up from $36 billion in 2021. Shopping — thrift or retail — is integral to travel and vacations. Tourism boards nationwide should “hitch their wagons” to this surging trend.

To reach Patti Clark, order a copy of The Happy Thrifter newspaper, book a bus tour or cruise, or join the mailing list visit www.thehappythriftershopper.com. You’ll find their Facebook group at www.facebook.com/thehappythriftershopper.

 

Patti Clark poses with a cruise ship to Cozumel. Her Happy Thrifter motto: “Let Go and Have Fun.”

A Mystery Bus Tour welcoming committee in Punta Gorda, Fla.

A well-read group of Happy Thrifters.

 

Images courtesy of Patti Clark