If you love the past, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is the place to explore. This gorgeous wilderness boasts a variety of antique shops that offer a glimpse into its rich history of Native American, European and entrepreneurial settlers. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply searching for a one-of-a-kind find, the U.P.'s antique stores offer treasures for everyone — from mining tools to vintage furniture and beyond.
Discover the past
Antiques in the U.P. are more than just artifacts; they are pieces of the region’s story. From the copper boom in the 1800s to the lumber industry that helped build the towns, each item carries the weight of time and history. In this area known for its hardworking past, antiques offer a tangible connection to those early years of Michigan’s development. Whether you’re scouring for Victorian-era furniture, mining tools, old books or mid-century collectibles, you’ll find that these shops are a treasure trove of the Upper Peninsula’s industrial and cultural heritage.
Western Upper Peninsula
Prospector's Paradise – Allouez
Tucked away in the historic Copper Country of the U.P., Prospector’s Paradise combines the region's history with geology. Copper mining was once the lifeblood of this area and here you can find antique mining tools and equipment, as well as rare rocks and minerals native to the region. It’s not unusual to come across copper artifacts dating back to the 1800s, a nod to the area’s mining boom. While in the area, visit sites along the Keweenaw National Historical Park to deepen your knowledge of the local history.
The Yard Sale Antiques & Collectibles – Laurium
What a treasure trove this is, antique seekers! The Yard Sale Antiques & Collectibles has over 20,000 LP record albums, 20,000 books, furniture, toys, games, movies, vintage tools, mining artifacts, radios, antiques and all kinds of collectibles. The shop is located in the historic First National Bank Building in downtown. Ask for an appointment to visit the shop’s upper two floors brimming with more things to purchase.
Vertin Gallery – Calumet
When you explore the historic city of Calumet, stop in this consignment gallery where many of its antiques and vintage pieces are displayed in “vignettes” that look like a room in a house. Find household items, books, sporting goods, furniture and more. The owner eventually plans to dedicate the second floor to antique vendors. After lunch in town, venture off to the nearby Quincy Mine for a more in-depth look at the region’s rich mining history.
Gitche Gumee Landing Gift Shop – Ontonagon
Known for blending rockhounding and antique collecting, Gitche Gumee Landing offers a unique experience in Ontonagon, a town steeped in copper-mining heritage. This shop features vintage furniture, décor and even local artifacts, including rare copper pieces. After shopping, take a trip to the nearby Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park for a scenic hike, offering stunning views of Lake Superior.
Dan’s Antique Mall – Ironwood
Dan’s Antique Mall offers room after room of old treasures. If you are looking for tools, glass, old radios, jewelry, windows, old trunks, crockery, vintage buttons, drinking glasses, depression glass and more — it is likely here.
Central Upper Peninsula
Main Street Antique Mall – Ishpeming
The Main Street Antique Mall is a favorite for antique lovers passing through Ishpeming. This multi-vendor shop offers a variety of items, from vintage toys to handmade crafts and rustic furniture. Ishpeming’s rich mining heritage makes a perfect backdrop for finding historical treasures. After shopping, consider visiting the Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum for a deeper appreciation of the area’s mining legacy.
Birdcage Antiques – Marquette
This charming antique store buys and sells antiques, eclectic decor, furniture, books, decorative items, vintage clothing, records and more! Let the hunt begin!
Lowenstein's Antique Market Plc – Negaunee
Lowenstein’s offers a great variety of antiques and vintage items with a staff that makes you feel welcome.
Home of Yesteryear – Menominee
After crossing into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, make a beeline to the Home of Yesteryear. This unique antique store will take you down memory lane with its "Man Cave," "Farm House Room," "The She Shed" and "Sunset Showroom" all full of items from years gone by.
Truth North Outpost Antiques – Norway
A teaching moment about the Upper Peninsula’s past awaits at the True North Outpost. Find farmhouse primitive kitchen items, antique hardware, industrial-chic-inspired designs, heirloom furniture, stained glass, one-of-a-kind upcycled furniture and lighting, mythical and dark-side-inspired collectibles and more. Before leaving town, explore the Jake Menghini Historical Museum, a comprehensive collection of over 7,000 items that tell Norway’s story. Six historical buildings showcase many of them.
Orange Cat Antiques & Comics – Escanaba
The Orange Cat Antiques & Comics is a large antique and collectible shop known for its diverse collection of vintage furniture, jewelry, comics and collectibles. It is the perfect place to find a unique keepsake from your travels through the U.P. While you're in historic Escanaba, don’t forget to stop by Sayklly's Confectionery & Gifts to sample some locally made chocolates or visit the intriguing Webster Marble: Investing the Outdoors Museum. The exhibits are world-class.
Eastern Upper Peninsula
BJ's Lapidary and Collectibles – Trout Lake
BJ's Lapidary and Collectibles offers a charming collection of antiques mixed with local lapidary work. Here, you can browse through unique stones and vintage items, each telling a story of the U.P.’s colorful past. Once you’ve found your treasure, set off on an unforgettable side trip to explore the Western Unit of the Hiawatha National Forest. This geographical masterpiece boasts dramatic Great Lakes shorelines, hundreds of inland lakes, miles of paddling rivers, over 300 wildlife species, beautiful waterfalls and four seasons of exhilarating recreational adventures.
The Silver Lining Antiques – Sault Ste. Marie
For those venturing into Sault Ste. Marie, don’t miss Silver Lining Antiques. This shop specializes in maritime-related antiques, reflecting the city’s deep connection to Great Lakes shipping. From vintage nautical décor to ship-related memorabilia, this store is perfect for anyone fascinated by the history of the Soo Locks. Visit the nearby Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum for a deeper dive into the U.P.’s spellbinding maritime past.
Other Ways to Enjoy a Blast from the Past
Clyde's Drive-In – St. Ignace
While not an antique shop, Clyde’s Drive-In in St. Ignace deserves a mention for its vintage 1950s décor and old-school diner charm. After enjoying one of their famous burgers, head into downtown St. Ignace to take the enriching Historic St. Ignace Walking Tour or visit the Marquette Mission Park & Museum of Ojibwa Culture.
Clyde’s is one of many restaurants housed in historical buildings throughout the U.P. When you arrive in town, ask a local where to get a table. Most walls are full of old photographs that tell our ancestors’ stories.
Antique Boat Show – Hessel
For something different, the Hessel Antique Wooden Boat Show offers a unique take on antique collecting. Held every August, this show brings together enthusiasts from all over the country, showcasing beautiful, restored wooden boats that reflect a bygone era of craftsmanship. While in Hessel, explore some of the local art galleries and restaurants.
Laurium Manor Inn Bed & Breakfast – Laurium
If you have ever questioned how much wealth was on the Keweenaw Peninsula during the copper boom of the early 1900s, enter the Laurium Manor Inn Bed & Breakfast. This is one of the most opulent and well-preserved mansions in the Upper Peninsula. It boasts 13,000 square feet, a ballroom, a grand triple staircase of hand-carved oak, a marble ice box, a gilded tile fireplace, unique wallpaper and 10 bedrooms with private baths — there are period antiques everywhere! While you may stay at the Laurium, non-guests are warmly invited to take a self-guided tour, available daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Plan Your Antique Hunting Adventure
Antique shopping can take you across this incredible vacation region, but the U.P.’s vastness often surprises newcomers. The shops span the entire U.P., from Ironwood to Drummond Island. Plan ahead — this road trip takes more than a day!
We suggested a few of the U.P.’s many antique stores to get you started. For more ideas, go to our shopping and museum pages. As you plan your stay, mix finding antiques with following our hundreds of scenic routes and exploring our outdoor attractions. You are never far from world-renowned national parks and must-see attractions.
After a full day of antiquing and exploring the wonders of the U.P., you will have earned a restful night’s sleep. Find hotels and lodgings with the amenities and rates you enjoy wherever you venture — many of them with historical tales to share. Don’t wait and miss staying where you want.
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