An antique is an item considered collectible and desirable based on its age, beauty, rarity, and personal connection to that item. Antiques can range in value from next to nothing, to extremely valuable. In recent culture, buying and selling antiques have even become a popular niche in cable television. From the long-running Antique Road Show, to the humorous Pawn Stars. Antiquing is fast becoming a popular hobby with all ages, and there are more and more businesses popping up locally. The Bloomington/Normal area has some great places for antique shopping. Whether you are a seasoned expert or a first timer, you're bound to find what you're looking for and so much more. The craftsmanship and quality of yesterday can still be appreciated today. The proprietors of these shops are extremely knowledgeable about their products and love what they do. If you are looking for that special piece of antique furniture to complete your home decorating, or searching for the missing piece of your china collection the Bloomington/Normal area is the place to look. For those looking for a bargain or the hard to find, each of these shops will likely have what you are looking for. And each item has been lovingly taken care of, and have a unique story behind them.
A. Gridley Antiques
Located in Downtown Bloomington, Named after the historic Asahel Gridley, an American lawyer, politician, and businessman. This shop is three whole buildings specializing in antique furniture, lighting, glassware, jewelry, arts and crafts, and much much more.
http://www.gridleyantiques.com/
CWW
Cydney's Antiques is located at 905 S. Eldorado Rd, Bloomington. CWW has been in business for 35 years. They offer a large variety of products from Christmas items, Dept 56, jewelry, and international treasures. You can visit the beautiful store, or can even shop without leaving your home by shopping from their website. If there is an item that you are searching for, and just can't seem to find it, just shoot them an email or give them a call and the helpful staff at CWW will do their best to hunt it down for you.
http://www.cydneysantiques.com/
Alley Kats Antiques
Located in Historic Downtown Bloomington in the Old Warehouse District at 401 S. Center, Bloomington along with a new annex building at 104 W Mill St. A fairly new shop, Alley Kats opened in Oct 2013 and is owned by the same owners as Old Warehouse Antiques. Their shop houses collections of 20 professional Antiques and Vintage Items Dealers along with many part time consignors. This shop is run by people who love people and who love antiques and have made this a successful business. They lovingly describe the area surrounding their shop as funky, and often enjoy the services of local food trucks.
Third Sunday Market
Located at the spacious Interstate Center on West Market Street in Bloomington, the Third Sunday Market has been a Bloomington tradition since 1988. Running from May through October, offers an indoor/outdoor shopping experience. The Third Sunday Market features items from over 450 dealers from 17 states, and offers anything you could possibly imagine. From Americana, antique toys, furniture, and so much more.
http://www.thirdsundaymarket.com/
