Best Thrift Stores in Appleton Wisconsin – Comprehensive Guide

Looking for good deals and unique items? Appleton has many great places to shop for secondhand clothes, furniture, and more. Whether you’re on a budget or just love thrifting, you’ll find lots of options here. In this guide, I’ll share some of the best thrift stores in Appleton where you can save money and still find great stuff. Each store has something special to offer.

Best Thrift Stores in Appleton, Wisconsin

Some shops are big and full of furniture, while others focus on trendy clothes or vintage items. Many of them also support local charities or missions, so your shopping helps others too. I visited each one and looked at what they offer, how clean and friendly they are, and the kinds of deals you can expect. Keep reading to find your next favorite thrift stop in Appleton.

Best Thrift Shops in Appleton – Quick Overview

Store NameBest ForNot Ideal ForPriceVibeBest Time to Visit
Fox Valley Thrift ShoppeBasic clothing & small home itemsDesigner/fancy itemsVery affordableSimple, no-frillsWeekday afternoons
AbleLight Thrift ShopOrganized shopping by color/sizeTrendy fashionBudget-friendlyCalm, charitableWeekday mornings
The Wild Goose ExchangeUnique trendy clothingFurniture/home improvementModerateArtsy boutiqueWeekends (full selection)
St. Vincent de PaulBargain clothes & home goodsModern/upscale shoppingSuper cheapBusy, treasure huntWeekday mornings
Fair Market Thrift StoreQuiet shopping experienceLast-minute visitsAffordablePeaceful, welcomingWeekday afternoons
Habitat ReStoreHome improvement suppliesClothing shoppersVery cheapPractical, DIY-focusedWeekdays (restocked often)
Echoes Thrift StoreBrand-name clothing findsLarge furnitureFair pricesSerene, organizedWeekday mornings
Left Behind LLCFurniture & scratch-card dealsModern designer itemsBargain pricesFriendly, treasure huntWeekday afternoons
Bargain GardenSupporting local causesElectronics/big itemsVery affordableCozy, community feelWeekday mornings
Goodwill OutletPay-by-the-pound bargainsNeat/organized shoppersExtremely cheapLively, dig-friendlyWeekday mornings
Plato’s ClosetTrendy teen/young adult fashionVintage/home goodsModerateYouthful, energeticWeekends (new arrivals)
Chic to ChicHigh-end pre-owned fashionTight budgetsHigher-endStylish boutiqueWeekday afternoons

Fox Valley Thrift Shoppe

Fox Valley Thrift Shoppe is a small store with a mix of everything. You can find clothes for men, women, and kids, plus things like books, DVDs, and dishes. I liked that the prices were low, and they even offer a student discount, which is nice if you’re on a budget. One thing to know, they use staples to attach price tags, so I had to remove them from my clothes when I got home. Still, I found some great deals, and the shop was neat and easy to walk through.

This is one of the second hand stores in Appleton, Wisconsin where you can explore and find random useful stuff. The people working there were kind and happy to help. If you enjoy looking through racks to find something special, you’ll probably like it here. It’s a good stop if you’re not in a hurry and just want to browse. It’s closed on Mondays and Sundays, so plan your visit during the week or Saturday.

  • Best for: Basic clothing and small home items
  • Not ideal for: Fancy or designer stuff
  • My top picks: DVDs, women’s tops, jewelry
  • Location details:
    📍 231 S Walter Ave #1, Appleton, WI 54915
    📞 (920) 954-9200
    🕒 Tuesday–Thursday: 10 AM–5 PM, Friday–Saturday: 10 AM–6 PM, Sunday & Monday: Closed

AbleLight Thrift Shop

AbleLight Thrift Shop is a clean and friendly place to shop for used items. It’s one of the top rated thrift stores in Appleton, Wisconsin because the money they make helps people with disabilities. The store is big and very organized. Clothes are sorted by size and even color, which makes it easy to find what you want. I found some nice clothes and even a set of old books for a great price.

They also have special sales sometimes where you can save even more. The workers are always nice and helpful, and the store has a calm, quiet feeling. You can find clothes, books, and some household things here. If you like helping a good cause while shopping, this is a great choice. It’s open six days a week and closed on Sundays.

AbleLight Thrift Shop - Best thrift store in Appleton WI
Image by AbleLight Thrift Shop
  • Best for: Neatly organized shopping and low prices
  • Not ideal for: Trendy or modern fashion
  • My top picks: Books, color-sorted clothes, home goods
  • Location details:
    📍 138 E Northland Ave, Appleton, WI 54911
    📞 (920) 997-1533
    🕒 Monday–Friday: 9 AM–6 PM, Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM, Sunday: Closed

The Wild Goose Exchange

The Wild Goose Exchange is a fun little thrift store that feels more like a stylish boutique. It’s one of the best consignment shops in Appleton, Wisconsin for finding cool, unique outfits. The owner is super friendly, and the store is decorated in a cute, artsy way. I liked how the clothes here were different from what you usually see in thrift stores. Prices were fair, and the quality of items was really good.

If you’re looking for something trendy or want to add some personality to your style, this place is perfect. They also have accessories and home decor, all nicely arranged. I had a good time just walking around and checking out the creative items. It’s open every day except Saturday and Sunday mornings, so there’s plenty of time to stop by. You’ll want to visit again after your first trip.

  • Best for: Trendy clothing and unique style
  • Not ideal for: Big furniture or household tools
  • My top picks: Statement tops, vintage jewelry, cute decorations
  • Location details:
    📍 10 E College Ave Suite #112B, Appleton, WI 54911
    📞 (920) 740-0746
    🕒 Monday–Friday: 11 AM–6 PM, Saturday: 9 AM–5 PM, Sunday: 11 AM–4 PM

Related: Best Thrift Shops in Green Bay

Fair Market Thrift Store

Fair Market Thrift Store is one of the nicest clothing thrift stores in Appleton, Wisconsin. It’s a nonprofit shop that supports Christian education, and the staff is made up of friendly volunteers. The store is very clean and well organized, which makes shopping easy. I found some good deals on clothes and dishes the last time I stopped in. It’s not super crowded, so you can take your time and look around.

The shop has a warm and welcoming feel, and the people working there make you feel at home. They like getting to know their regular customers and always say hello. They don’t open every day, so make sure to check the hours before going. It’s a great spot if you want good prices and a quiet place to shop. I love going there for a peaceful thrift experience.

Fair Market Thrift Store - Top thrift store in Appleton WI
Image by Fair Market Thrift Store
  • Best for: Quiet shopping and helpful volunteers
  • Not ideal for: Last-minute shopping (limited hours)
  • My top picks: Button-up shirts, dishes, casual home decor
  • Location details:
    📍 2130 S Memorial Dr, Appleton, WI 54915
    📞 (920) 882-6688
    🕒 Tuesday–Thursday: 10 AM–4 PM, Saturday: 10 AM–2 PM, Sunday, Monday & Friday: Closed

St. Vincent de Paul

St. Vincent de Paul on College Ave is one of the classic thrift shops Appleton, Wisconsin has to offer. They have clothes, kitchen stuff, furniture, and random treasures if you like to dig. The best part is the prices, they’re low, and they often have color tag deals for extra savings. The workers are always smiling and helpful, which makes shopping more fun. I really liked how they treat customers with kindness.

The store is pretty big and has lots of things to look at. You never know what you’ll find, which makes it exciting to visit. It’s a great place for people on a budget or anyone who loves secondhand shopping. It’s open almost every day, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule. If you want a good mix of variety and value, give this place a try.

  • Best for: Affordable clothes and home goods
  • Not ideal for: Modern or upscale shopping
  • My top picks: Discount-tag items, small furniture, kitchen supplies
  • Location details:
    📍 1924 W College Ave, Appleton, WI 54914
    📞 (920) 739-1679
    🕒 Monday–Friday: 10 AM–6 PM, Saturday: 10 AM–4 PM, Sunday: Closed

Habitat ReStore

Appleton Habitat ReStore is a great place if you’re fixing your home or need cheap furniture. They sell things like cabinets, flooring, lights, tools, and more. I once found nice flooring for only $29 per pack, which was a great deal. The store is big and has lots of room to walk around and look at things. New stuff comes in often, so every visit feels different.

What makes this store special is that your money helps people. The money from sales goes to help families get safe and affordable homes. The workers and volunteers are very helpful and kind. You can also donate your old furniture or tools here. If you’re working on a home project, this is a good place to shop.

Habitat ReStore - Best thrift store for furniture in Appleton WI
Image by Habitat ReStore
  • Best for: Furniture and home improvement
  • Not ideal for: Clothing or fashion items
  • My top picks: Cabinets, flooring, tools
  • Location details:
    📍 5402 Integrity Way, Appleton, WI 54913
    📞 (920) 830-8400
    🕒 Monday–Saturday: 10 AM–6 PM, Sunday: Closed

Echoes, A Christian Thrift Store

Echoes is one of the nicest second hand stores in Appleton, Wisconsin if you’re looking for clothes, furniture, and small home items at fair prices. The store is peaceful, clean, and not too crowded. I found a few name-brand clothes here, including Ralph Lauren, for way less than normal prices. Everything was easy to look through, and the workers were very friendly and helpful. It’s a Christian thrift store, so the money you spend goes to support local churches and community programs.

I enjoy coming here because it’s calm and well-organized. You can also donate your old items, which helps others and keeps the store going. It’s a great place if you want to save money and also give back to the community. Just make sure to check their hours before you visit since they’re closed on Sundays and Mondays. I always feel good after shopping here, it’s a small place with a big heart.

  • Best for: Brand-name clothes and peaceful shopping
  • Not ideal for: Big furniture or large amounts of stuff
  • My top picks: Branded clothing, small furniture, home goods
  • Location details:
    📍 1320 W Wisconsin Ave, Appleton, WI 54914
    📞 (920) 882-8172
    🕒 Tuesday–Friday: 9 AM–5 PM, Saturday: 9 AM–4 PM, Sunday & Monday: Closed

Left Behind LLC

Left Behind LLC is one of the newer resale stores Appleton, Wisconsin has to offer, and it’s quickly become one of my favorites. The prices are super low, and you can find all kinds of items like clothes, kitchen goods, and furniture. I once bought a set of three sturdy bar stools for only $75, which was a great deal. One fun thing they do at checkout is give out scratch cards, you can win extra discounts. The shop looks small from the outside, but there’s a lot to see once you walk in.

The store is always clean and well-organized, which makes it easy to shop. The workers are really nice and make you feel welcome. It’s perfect if you want to save money and still find good-quality stuff. Just keep in mind that they’re closed on Sundays and Mondays. If you’re into thrifting, this little spot is definitely worth checking out.

  • Best for: Cheap prices and fun shopping
  • Not ideal for: Designer brands or modern style
  • My top picks: Bar stools, kitchen items, used clothes
  • Location details:
    📍 205 W Wisconsin Ave, Appleton, WI 54911
    📞 (920) 202-3202
    🕒 Tuesday: 9 AM–3 PM, Wednesday–Friday: 9 AM–6 PM, Saturday: 9 AM–4 PM, Sunday & Monday: Closed

Plato’s Closet

Plato’s Closet is a popular spot for teens and young adults who want trendy clothes at good prices. It’s one of the best clothing thrift stores in Appleton, Wisconsin because they sell stylish, name-brand clothes that are still in great shape. I’ve found hoodies, jeans, and shoes from popular brands for way less than retail prices. The store is organized by size and style, so it’s easy to shop. If you like fashion but want to save money, this is a good place to go.

You can also sell your gently used clothes here and get cash the same day. They’re a bit picky about what they take, but the selling process is fast and simple. The store is always busy, especially on weekends, but the staff is helpful. I love stopping by to see what’s new each season. It’s perfect for budget shoppers who still want to dress trendy.

Plato’s Closet - Best thrift store for teen fashion in Appleton WI
Image by Plato’s Closet
  • Best for: Trendy fashion for teens and young adults
  • Not ideal for: Furniture or older-style clothing
  • My top picks: Branded jeans, hoodies, boots
  • Location details:
    📍 309 N Mall Dr, Appleton, WI 54913
    📞 (920) 968-0381
    🕒 Monday–Saturday: 10 AM–9 PM, Sunday: 11 AM–6 PM

Bargain Garden

Bargain Garden is one of the coziest thrift shops Appleton, Wisconsin has to offer. It’s a small store, but it’s full of treasures. The prices are low, and I’ve found cute decorations, books, and clothes for just a few dollars. The shop supports a local Christian school and other good causes, so your money goes to help others too. The staff are always kind and make you feel welcome.

Shopping here is peaceful and never stressful. It’s not too busy, and everything is neat and easy to look through. I like how calm the place feels, and I always end up finding something useful. The store has shorter hours than others, so make sure to check the schedule before going. It’s a great little place to support the community and find good deals at the same time.

  • Best for: Friendly service and supporting local causes
  • Not ideal for: Big furniture or electronics
  • My top picks: Home decor, clothes, small gifts
  • Location details:
    📍 2725 N Meade St, Appleton, WI 54911
    📞 (920) 832-8822
    🕒 Monday–Wednesday, Friday: 9 AM–4 PM, Thursday: 9 AM–8 PM, Saturday: 9 AM–12 PM, Sunday: Closed

Goodwill Outlet Store

Goodwill NCW Outlet Store is a fun place if you like hunting for bargains. It’s one of the top 10 best thrift stores in Appleton, Wisconsin because you can find great stuff for very cheap prices. Many items are sold by the pound, so you get more for less money. I found shoes, books, and clothes for just a few dollars. You do have to dig through bins, but it’s worth it.

The store is big and open every day, so it’s easy to stop by whenever you want. Some people might find it a little messy, but I don’t mind. The staff were friendly to me, and it felt like a treasure hunt. If you like saving money and don’t mind digging a bit, you’ll enjoy this place. I always leave with something useful.

  • Best for: Very cheap prices and big finds
  • Not ideal for: People who want neat and quiet shopping
  • My top picks: Shoes, books, clothing by weight
  • Location details:
    📍 1341 W Spencer St, Appleton, WI 54914
    📞 (920) 560-1234
    🕒 Open daily: 9 AM–6 PM

Chic to Chic

Chic to Chic Consignment is a lovely shop if you’re looking for fancy, pre-owned fashion. It’s one of the nicer consignment shops in Appleton, Wisconsin where you can find high-end clothes, handbags, and jewelry in great condition. Everything looks clean and well-cared for. I saw name-brand jeans and cute bags that looked almost new. The prices are higher than other thrift shops, but you’re getting quality pieces.

The store is small, but it has a stylish boutique feel. The staff is friendly and always keeps the place looking neat. I like how they pick only the best items to sell, it makes the shopping experience feel special. It’s a great place to find something nice for a night out or a special occasion. If you like quality and brand names, this is the shop for you.

Chic to Chic - Best thrift store for women's fashion in Appleton WI
Image by Chic to Chic
  • Best for: Pre-owned name-brand fashion and accessories
  • Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or big furniture items
  • My top picks: Designer jeans, handbags, shoes
  • Location details:
    📍 301 N Mall Dr, Appleton, WI 54913
    📞 (920) 882-2200
    🕒 Monday–Saturday: 10 AM–6 PM, Sunday: 10 AM–3 PM

FAQS

Fox Valley Thrift Shoppe and St. Vincent de Paul are top picks for extremely affordable basics. Both stores offer a no-frills, budget-friendly experience ideal for everyday needs.

Yes, The Wild Goose Exchange has a boutique-style vibe with curated, trendy fashion. It’s not ideal for furniture hunters but great for stylish clothing lovers.

Head to Plato’s Closet for youthful, brand-name fashion at moderate prices or visit Chic to Chic for upscale consignment in a boutique setting.

The Goodwill Outlet is a digger’s dream with pay-by-the-pound pricing. It’s lively and super affordable but may not suit shoppers looking for organization.

Habitat ReStore is the go-to spot for tools, fixtures, and furniture. It’s super cheap and perfect for home projects, but not ideal if you’re looking for clothing.

Conclusion

Thrift shopping in Appleton is a fun way to save money and find cool, useful things. Whether you’re looking for clothes, furniture, or something unique, there’s a store for everyone. Many of these shops also give back to the community, which makes your visit even more meaningful. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect place to shop. Happy thrifting!

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