Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont: Café Provence, The Brandon Inn, and Small Town Charm

If you’re searching for antique shops in Brandon, Vermont, you’ll find one standout gem tucked right into the heart of this charming little town. I headed to Brandon for a day of vintage hunting, French-inspired lunch at Café Provence, and an overnight stay at the historic Brandon Inn, classic Antiquing in New England style. Not everything went as planned (hello, closed shops and a freezing inn room!), but that’s all part of the small-town Vermont experience.

Love road-tripping for vintage treasures? This post is part of my Antiquing in New England series, where I share a shop, a stay, and a find in charming towns across the region. Explore more hidden gems and vintage haunts throughout New England.

Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont: Why We Picked This Charming Town

When Katie from A Season for Home and I started chatting on Instagram, we quickly realized we shared a love of all things home, color, and vintage. Katie lives in northern Vermont and is transitioning from food blogging into interior color consulting. Her style is rooted in classic, traditional New England tones with a cozy country cottage feel.

We decided to meet up and explore somewhere new together. Katie suggested a day trip to Brandon, Vermont, a charming town she loved and one I had only ever passed through. I’d never thought to stop, but that’s exactly what I’ve come to love about my Antiquing in New England adventures: discovering beautiful small towns I might have otherwise missed, all through the lens of antique shops in Brandon, Vermont, and beyond.

Katie also recommended lunch at Café Provence, a local favorite owned by a chef she knew from her time at the New England Culinary Institute. We planned to meet up there and then spend the afternoon visiting Brandon’s antique shop scene. With fresh snow on the ground from the season’s first big storm, it was a postcard-perfect setting for a small-town vintage day out.

Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont: A Morning of Treasure Hunting and Twists

Let’s just say… the day didn’t start as planned.

First Stop (Sort Of): The Perfect Image — A Vermont Antique Barn Full of Surprises

On my way into Brandon, I set out early, hoping to revisit The Perfect Image, a vintage and antique shop I’d stumbled across years ago, tucked inside a barn just off Route 7. With sweeping Green Mountain views and a reputation for unique salvage finds, I remembered it as a must-stop. Get Directions

But when I arrived? Locked. No sign. No hours. Just a bolt on the barn door and a big “oh well” from me. It was the first little twist in a very Vermont antiquing kind of day.

That’s the thing about antique shopping in small towns like Brandon, Vermont: hours are unpredictable, websites are rarely updated, and what looks “open” on Google might just mean “not today.” So always call ahead or check Instagram or Facebook for recent updates, especially midweek in the off-season.

Still, even closed doors make for good stories, I grabbed a few snowy snapshots of the barn and kept on driving.

But here’s where the twist comes in…

On my way home the next morning, I passed by again, and this time, the doors were flung open! The Perfect Image was bustling, warm, and just as delightful as I remembered. I stepped inside and was immediately greeted with a smile and the words: “Everything in here is negotiable, just ask!”

The shop was brimming with antiques, from classic crockery and enamelware to small antique finds, seasonal decor, and thoughtfully styled vignettes. I picked up a gorgeous, large white bowl with blue striping in the main shop area, which felt more like a cozy, curated antique store tucked into the front section of the barn.

But the real surprise came next.

Just outside, a second entrance led to what I’d call the barn sale side, a sprawling space filled with architectural salvage: vintage windows, rustic shutters, farmhouse hutches, and more. Snowflakes were dancing through the open boards as I stepped inside, with Vermont’s mountain views perfectly framed in the distance. It felt like one of those rare moments where you stumble into something beautifully unexpected.

As it turns out, the shop had been closed the day before because the owner was down in Dorset, Vermont, on a house call, sourcing antiques from a historic home. She had just returned and was unpacking new finds, straight from another beloved Vermont town, making the timing of my second stop even more serendipitous.

A Quick Thrift Stop at Nifty Thrifty Brandon

Just before it was time for me to meet up with Katie for lunch, I spotted a charming community thrift store tucked inside a historic red-brick home: Nifty Thrifty. This local gem has been serving the Brandon, Vermont area since 1975 and is filled with rooms of secondhand treasures, from dishware to vintage clothing. Get Directions

Naturally, I couldn’t resist browsing. I picked up a white restaurant-style platter for just $1 and a vintage ironstone-style soup tureen (with the tiniest chip) for $3, an absolute steal at $4 for the pair. I love using these vintage soup tureens to plant paperwhites or display fresh flowers over the holidays. They’re perfect for adding that collected, layered feel to seasonal decor.

There was even a lovely Wedgwood piece for $8 and plenty more for vintage lovers to sift through. As if the charm inside wasn’t enough, a bench out front held a selection of free items, a thoughtful touch that reflects the friendly, community-focused vibe of the shop.

Nifty Thrifty is a must-stop if you’re looking for affordable vintage finds while antiquing in Brandon, Vermont. Keep an eye out, you never know what little treasure might be waiting on a shelf.

Before Visiting Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont: Lunch at Café Provence

Next stop? Lunch in downtown Brandon, Vermont at the charming Café Provence, where I met up with Katie from A Season for Home. Set right in the heart of town, this cozy, eclectic restaurant was just the thing for a snowy winter day. Katie warmed up with their signature French onion soup and fresh salad, while I went straight for the roast beef panini, which turned out to be every bit as delicious as it sounds.

Over a couple of hours and plenty of conversation about antiques, blogging, and cozy New England homes, we planned the rest of our afternoon to explore the antique shops in Brandon, Vermont. Full and inspired, we bundled up and headed out to see what vintage treasures we could find.

Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont, and Discovering Moonlight Madness

Brandon’s downtown is as charming as they come, walkable, eclectic, and full of local color. With full bellies and big antiquing energy, Katie and I bundled up and strolled through the snowy streets, ready to explore the antique shops in Brandon, Vermont. We had our sights set on Across the Street, the town’s well-known antique destination. Get Directions

But in true Vermont fashion? It was closed.

We asked a few locals and shopkeepers nearby, and the consensus was, “Sometimes it’s open, sometimes it’s not.” Classic small-town antiquing: a little mysterious, always unpredictable. Luckily, Brandon still had plenty of shops open to explore.

Just across the road, we noticed a row of small sheds buzzing with activity. Local vendors were setting up for Moonlight Madness, a festive night of outdoor shopping, hot chocolate stations, live music from a local brewery, and late-night sales all over town. We loved the cozy vibe, artists arranging their handmade crafts, woodworkers displaying wares, and everyone prepping for a lively evening ahead.

We stopped into a delightful Vermont craft shop where I picked up two Chandler 4 Corners hot pads (perfect for gifting), then wandered into Blooming Bungalow, a fabulously curated space filled with women’s clothing, Christmas décor, puzzles, art supplies, pottery, and yes, vintage treasures. Katie even found a great pair of jeans!

Before heading back to the inn to check in and warm up, we took one last hopeful peek through the windows of Across the Street. And to our surprise, they were inside and getting ready to open for Moonlight Madness!

Our antique adventure was back on.

Inside Across the Street, One of the Most Eclectic Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont

When the doors finally opened at Across the Street, we stepped into a world of vintage wonder that was well worth the wait. This shop is everything you want an antique store to be, layered, quirky, and brimming with treasures. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a mix of antique furnishings, lamps, ceramics, dishware, and a generous helping of McCoy pottery. Get Directions

Then the real fun begins.

As we wandered around the multiple-room shop, the vibe shifted into full-blown eclectic holiday joy. One display featured a life-size skeleton wearing a Santa hat and puffing on a cigarette. Another had a mannequin dressed in a red apron and antique roller skates, carrying vintage kitchen utensils like she was skating her way into Christmas dinner. Each corner of the shop felt like a visual story in motion.

The back room, though? That was the showstopper.

Decked out with vintage Christmas galore, it blended mid-century modern kitsch, retro holiday cheer, and a splash of Ralph Lauren-esque ski lodge nostalgia. Think retro kitchenware, thermoses, plastic Santas, snowshoes, globes, old tins, Santa mugs, Coca-Cola signage, Winston Racing memorabilia, and vintage lanterns. It was a feast for the eyes, and the perfect backdrop for holiday decorating inspiration.

While I didn’t bring anything home this time (prices leaned a bit high for my taste), Across the Street is absolutely worth the stop if you’re antiquing in Brandon, Vermont. This is one of those shops where the experience alone makes the visit memorable, and the photos will show you exactly why.

Where to Stay Near Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont: A Night at the Brandon Inn

If you’re antiquing in Brandon, Vermont, and looking for a place to stay that’s right in the heart of town, The Brandon Inn offers an unbeatable location. This grand, historic inn is within walking distance to every antique shop, café, bookstore, and local market, including Café Provence, Nifty Thrifty, and the charming downtown square. You can easily park your car and stroll to everything Brandon has to offer. Get Directions

Built with vintage charm and filled with antique touches, the inn has a classic New England feel with wide hallways, historic character, and an inviting presence. My room was one of the smaller king rooms, and yet it was still very spacious, reflecting the inn’s large, open layout throughout.

That said, I personally tend to prefer smaller, cozier inns, especially in the winter months. During my visit, the inn’s size made it a bit difficult to warm up, literally! While beautifully decorated and welcoming, it took a little time for my room to feel cozy after being out in the Vermont snow all afternoon. But once it warmed up, I settled in and enjoyed the historic atmosphere.

The inn also features Jacob Simons Tavern, dating back to 1786, which I was excited to try, though unfortunately, it was closed during my midweek stay. A simple breakfast is offered in the morning (think bagels, muffins, and coffee), but there’s no in-room coffee setup, which is something to keep in mind if you love slow mornings with a hot cup in hand.

For travelers who appreciate vintage elegance, spacious rooms, and a location that puts everything within walking distance, the Brandon Inn is a solid choice. I’ll be trying another local inn on my next visit, but I can absolutely see the appeal of this historic spot, especially for those who enjoy a grander scale.

What I Found Antiquing in Brandon, Vermont

From thrifted treasures to one unforgettable antique, I came home with a few favorite finds. At Nifty Thrifty, I scooped up a classic restaurant-ware platter for just $1 and a charming white soup tureen for $3, proof that great vintage doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. My splurge of the day was a large white antique crockery bowl with a blue stripe from The Perfect Image, a rare piece I couldn’t pass up. And for a bit of Vermont-made charm, I picked up two Chandler 4 Corners wool coasters that now sit perfectly next to my vintage ski boots on the porch. See more in my Après Ski Christmas Porch Decor: Vintage Ski Lodge Style In The Vermont Mountains post.

Know Before You Go: Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont

Planning a visit to the antique shops in Brandon, Vermont? This charming small town tucked between the Green Mountains and Route 7 offers a delightful mix of rustic barns, curated vintage stores, and scenic New England moments around every corner. Here’s what to know before you set off on your treasure hunt.

Tips for Visiting Antique Shops in Brandon, Vermont:

Final Thoughts on Antique Shopping in Brandon, Vermont

Antique shopping in Brandon, Vermont, isn’t always what you expect, but that’s half the fun. With Café Provence serving up one of the best lunches in town, a quirky mix of vintage and thrift finds, and charming walkable streets, this little village has a lot to offer… even when doors don’t open as planned. Stay warm, stay flexible, and laugh when your antiquing day goes off-script. That’s the magic of Vermont.

Do you have your own nothing-went-as-planned antiquing adventure? I’d love to hear it, drop it in the comments! Because around here, the best vintage stories often start with a detour.

Love exploring small towns and hunting for vintage treasures? Follow along with my Antiquing in New England blog series, where every adventure includes a shop, a stay, a find:

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