Old, New, Timeless

Cruise Route 66 for a Lively Shopping Experience

by Monika Dziamka, co-editor of The Roadrunner e-newsletter.

As we look forward to the centennial year, we can’t help but notice that time moves in its own unique way along the Mother Road—present day crosses paths with history, and what’s old is new again. Maybe that’s why you can find some of the best vintage shopping in America along Route 66. Here in Albuquerque, you might want to roll through with extra trunk space.

Do old cowboy hats, belt buckles and boots whisper your name? Are you cruising for the perfect cat-eye sunglasses or rockabilly leather jacket? Maybe you need a last-minute gift or a unique outfit for the ball drop. Whatever you prefer, or whoever you might be shopping for, we’ve got a good feeling you’ll find it in the Duke City. If you’re short on time and want to maximize efficiency, check out the stretch of 4th Street in the Village of Los Ranchos, roughly between Alameda Road and Osuna Road. After that, head south to Central Avenue and roll through EDo, then keep heading east through Nob Hill.

Here are just a few of our favorite vintage shops along Route 66 in Albuquerque, in the areas mentioned above (please call ahead to verify hours!):

Along 4th Street

Ren’s Second Hand Store (8949 4th St. NW) kicks things off in the North Valley, just north of Los Ranchos, which brings a decidedly relaxed, more rural vibe to the city. Drive here along 4th Street this time of year and if you look—or listen!—close enough, you might notice the wild geese, cranes and other birds resting in the farm fields nearby. Who said shopping has to be stressful? Further south is Los Ranchos Antique Mall (7901 4th St. NW), which has more than 100 local vendors and is open daily. A short walk away is the Antique Co-op (7601 4th St. NW), which is also usually open daily and has been in business for more than 40 years.

The Antique Co-Op Los Ranchos

The Antique Co-op in Los Ranchos. Photo courtesy of the Antique Co-op on Facebook.

EDo

One of the most walkable areas of town, East Downtown includes Central from the railroad tracks to I-25. With several great dining and coffee spots around, you’ll have plenty of refueling options too. Willard and Byrd (416 Central Ave. SE) is a relatively new addition to Albuquerque’s vintage scene with finely curated pieces. Just a few doors east is Heck Yeah Vintage (512 Central Ave. SE), packed with fashion-shoot-worthy clothes, shoes and accessories for women and men. And while you’re in the area, make your way to Squidly Designs (514 Central Ave. SE) for some classically Albu-quirky gifts and more—perhaps a green chile air freshener for the car, or a uniquely ABQ screen-printed tote in which to carry your fabulous new threads.

Heck Yeah! Vintage's interior, loaded with authentic vintage goods.

Nob Hill

As you head east, Route 66 ascends toward the Sandia Mountains—and as Nob Hill entrepreneur and planner Col. DKB Sellers said in 1916, you “move out of the low zone and up to the ozone.” Reach new sartorial heights with a stop at Off Broadway Vintage Clothes and Costumes (3110 Central Ave. SE), where you’re sure to find the most bedazzled, eye-catching and unique outfit for New Year’s Eve. Right across the street is And Stuff Retail Collective (3123 Central Ave. NE, Suite A). Vintage Vault @ Nob Hill (3503 Central Ave. NE Suite E) is a short drive away and features multiple vendors. Just a few more blocks east, around Morningside Drive, is a cluster of vintage shops. You’ll need eight arms to look through all of the treasures at Octopus Banana Mid-Century Modern (4003 Central Ave. NE). For everyday scene-stealers, movie industry favorite Avenger’s Vintage (4011 Central Ave. NE) is just a few steps away.

A college student shops at Vintage Vault in Nob Hill.

A shopper browses one of Vintage Vault's unique vendors.

Can't get enough vintage?

Find more shops on Route 66.