This Antique Mall is a Haven for Treasure Hunters on Highway 101

by | Apr 29, 2023 | Adventures, Beaches, Entertainment, Florence, Oregon Coast, Shop, Things To Do, Travel

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Listen, I know that rummaging through antique and thrift stores isn't for everyone, and for those unfortunate few all I can say is I respect your stance but I don't understand it. For the rest of us who love treasure hunting, discovering bizarre knickknacks you never realized you needed in your life until now, or just immersing yourself in the history found in everyday objects, the Purple Pelican Antique Mall is for you!

interior
interior of store, photo via Purple Pelican Facebook page

Located right on Highway 101 as you roll through the coastal town of Florence, the Purple Pelican is great for both the average passer-byer as well as those hard-core antiquers who devote their lives to seeking out relics of the past. And, although Purple Pelican is mainly an antique and vintage store, it also features locally-made crafts and goods, showcasing the immense talent that can be found up and down the Oregon Coast. 

Elvis
Elvis photo by Christian "The King" McKnight via Google Local

There is truly something for everyone here since there are dozens of independent dealers who set up their wares on consignment, so every corner you turn you’ll find another trove to explore. The store always sets fair prices ranging from dollar items to truly valuable pieces like their Fenton Glass vases. Some items may be more expensive than you’d like, but that’s just because the owners have a real eye for collectibles and know the value of their goods (plus, the consignors they work with can set their own prices). That said, you’ll always be able to find a bargain and they often have discounted items and sales throughout the year, especially in winter when tourism in Oregon beach towns slows down.

RELATED: Florence, Oregon - A Travel Guide For Unique Things To Do

Peanuts knickknacks
Peanuts, photo by Jennifer "The JenzWorld" Ellis0n via Google Local

Purple Pelican sees a lot of foot traffic, and because of this their inventory is regularly replenished so you’re sure to find something new each time you go. You’ll find everything under the sun here: vintage clothes, old GI Joe action figures, antique tools and toys, shabby chic furniture, glassware, sports memorabilia, historic Life and Time magazines, old record players, linens, salt and pepper shakers, collectible books, and more! And, for as large as the store is, it’s very well organized. It strikes just the right balance of not feeling overly-packed and claustrophobic (no hoarder vibes here), but there’s also enough to keep you hands and eyes occupied no matter how long you want to stay.

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old stove
Old stove photo via Purple Pelican Facebook page

The staff is friendly and patient and don’t mind if you’re just there to browse so you’ll never feel hurried along. They’re also very meticulous about wrapping fragile items and packaging them if you’re traveling and want to ensure safety—they love these items just as much as you do! And though I’ve never tried it myself, I’ve also heard the staff can be open to bartering, so if you like to haggle to get a deal, give it a shot!

funny pig
Pig photo by Amy Schnoor via Google Local

The Purple Pelican is a great stop whether you’re just passing through town, taking a break from the sun, or sheltering from a rainy day (and in Oregon there are plenty of them). If you want to make a day of it, fill up on breakfast at the Little Red Hen right across the street so you’ll have a full belly to sustain you!

Don't forget to check out this other gorgeous 3-story historic Oregon Schoolhouse converted antique shop.

Address: 478 Highway 101, Florence, OR

Hours: Every day, 11:00am to 5:00pm

Phone: (541) 997-2220

Email: [email protected]


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Written By Diana Flowers

Diana is a writer living in Portland with her delightful son and crotchety cat. Growing up in the area, family vacations were often to nearby destinations reachable by car. She has since expanded that love of local road trips and has been all over the great state of Oregon and throughout the Pacific Northwest, frequently pairing backpacking trips with exploring new towns and regions.

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