Finding Treasures of the Past on America's Byways

Published on Sep 16, 2003 in Bargains on America's Byways

Is the thrill of the hunt for a truly rare and interesting souvenir part of the fun of your trip? What better place to find that one-of-the kind memento to commemorate your travels than at some of the impressive, sometimes quirky, antique shops on America's Byways? Many of the most famous antiquing hotspots, as well as a few lesser-known destinations, are along America's Byways.

Discover unpredictable antiquing adventures all along New Mexico's Historic Route 66. From an eclectic history, the area's heirlooms tell stories of many eras that are still celebrated along the route. Not only are there frequent road shows and swap meets along this byway, but the city of Albuquerque is full of places where antique-lovers will find excitement. Stop by one of the many trading posts located throughout the city to browse one-of-a-kind antiques from the Southwest. Don't miss Albuquerque's Old Town, with its maze of antique and collectibles stores.

Known for several Amish-owned antique malls and shops, Ohio's Amish Country Byway is an excellent place for you to pick up a beautiful piece of furniture or a traditional Amish quilt. From the shops in Sugarcreek and Berlin on the byway, as well as a few off the beaten path, Amish antique shops are famous for their handcrafted furniture, quilts, glasswork, and other items that you are sure to discover.

The Historic National Road is another byway that is sure to please the antique-hound in you. In particular, prepare to be overwhelmed by "Antique Alley" where more than 900 antique dealers set up shop. Indiana's largest antique mall, Webb's Antique Mall, is in Centerville on the byway. Will you find it, as others have, "one of the 10 best antiquing destinations in the Midwest?"

For a unique antiquing experience, visit Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan, where you can find something to delight everyone, from shops with kitschy and delightful knick-knacks to annual antique road shows. Be sure to check out Oddfellow Antiques in Berkley about a mile west of the byway for wacky antique toys and trinkets as well as some truly magnificent treasures.

Take home some of the history and traditions of America on America's Byways, through the rare handcrafted works of Ohio's early Amish inhabitants to retro trinkets from the Depression Era on Historic Route 66.

Disclaimer: this story does not serve as an endorsement of any private interest by the Federal Highway Administration.

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