Photo courtesy of the Rusty Moose in Montrose
Explore the state’s vintage treasure troves one town at a time
By Melissa Voss
Saddle up for a road trip around the Centennial State to visit the little towns that hold big treasures.
Throughout Colorado, small towns stake their name on the map with unique collections of vintage finds and antiques. Hidden gems are found in every corner of the state and enthusiasts are always in store for a one-of-a-kind find.
We’ve compiled a list of stops to consider when you begin the treasure hunt road trip. Some are only open in the summer months so check before you saddle up.
Village Junction Antiques – Bayfield
Make way, railroad enthusiasts! Right off the scenic Highway 160 at the junction of Gem Village lies the Village Junction Antiques. This 3,000-square-foot antique shop specializes in local railroadiana: artifacts of current or former operating railways from around the world. Village Junction Antiques also has several themed areas such as Western memorabilia, primitive/Victorian era, kitchen antiques, repurposed furniture and yard art.
The Pine Emporium – Pine
About six miles south of Pine Junction and near the Pine Valley Ranch Open Space Park, The Pine Emporium is an adventure for antiquers and passers-by alike. It has three stories of jam-packed shelves full of vintage knick-knacks, kitchen supplies, records, books, clothes and camping supplies. Don’t be surprised if you get drawn in and spend hours sorting through the goodies.
St. Elmo General Store – Nathrop
The St. Elmo General Store houses a variety of antiques, souvenirs, and treats. It was once the Miners Exchange in this former mining town that housed up to 2,000 people before the gold and silver ran out in the early part of the 20th century. Memorabilia is on display dating back to the town’s prime when supplies arrived by train. “The Yard” out back holds a unique picking experience, complete with old bottles, water pumps, vintage signs and more.
Antique Trail – Montrose
Looking for a whole day outing for one-of-a-kind finds? Take a walk along the Antique Trail in Montrose to see what their shops have in store. All within a five-minute drive of one another, the stores each offer unique finds. Here are a few of the notable stops to consider: Hidden Treasures Antiques, Gift and Collectables, Rusty Moose, AA Antiques, Not Too Shabby, Country Flair, and Heirlooms for Hospice.
Antiques on Main – Elizabeth
Main Street in Elizabeth offers a walk down antique paradise with a variety of fun shops. The owner at Randy’s Antiques and Art is a well-known antique expert in the area, looking to provide a little bit of history that comes with every piece. The Prickly Pear Vintage Market is a mother-and-daughter owned and operated business that specializes in unique vintage items, home decor and women’s clothing. Don’t be afraid to fuel up at their coffee shop before you browse. And The Carriage Shoppes is an old blacksmith barn turned antique store paradise, housing local treasures.
Salida Scavenger Hunt – Salida
Throughout Salida, numerous antique stores fill the town with their own twists. The Old Log Cabin Antiques and True Vintage Finds and Homegoods are known for their eclectic pieces. Some of the antiques are embraced for their aged looks, while others have been repurposed for the modern home. Ruby Blues holds racks and racks of vintage clothing and is always looking to sell and trade unique pieces that come through their doors. Head a little west of Salida on U.S. 50 to visit Antiques & What Nots, where thrift and antiques collide for a modern-vintage experience.
Main Street – Durango
Home of the 140-year-old Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the town represented one of the largest transportation railways in southwest Colorado. With that history came antiques and unique pieces, now found in their numerous stores on Main Avenue, which offers everything from access to the train station to historic hotels and bars. Be sure to wander into Old Silver and Gold for unique jewelry and precious metal pieces, or check out Old Colorado Vintage for rare clothing pieces, or the Durango Antique Market, where the vendors are always in rotation.
The Brass Armadillo – Wheat Ridge
And for those who can’t leave the metro area any time soon, the Brass Armadillo of What Ridge offers a huge mall for antique enthusiasts. Looking for a specific brand or a piece to complete your collection? The Brass Armadillo offers personal shopping requests where they will be able to look through their collection to see if it is on hand. They also host seminars and social events to bring vintage enthusiasts together to celebrate the shared passion for antiques.