🧭 Treasure Hunting in the Blue Ridge: A Thrift & Antique Day Trip to Franklin County, VA

There’s something magical about the thrill of the hunt—sifting through forgotten treasures, flipping through vintage postcards, and uncovering a one-of-a-kind gem that brings history to life. If that sounds like your kind of weekend, then pack your reusable shopping bags and set your sights on Franklin County, Virginia—a rustic retreat nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, brimming with antique charm and thrifty finds.

From vintage Americana to upcycled farmhouse décor, Franklin County offers a full day of browsing bliss across locally loved shops and hidden haunts. Here’s your ultimate guide to antiquing and thrifting your way through this gem of Southwest Virginia.

☕ Morning: Start in Downtown Rocky Mount

The Painted Trunk

Kick off your adventure at The Painted Trunk, a charming boutique and antique market in the heart of Rocky Mount. With curated booths that feel more like mini-studios, you’ll find refinished furniture, repurposed décor, local artisan goods, and nostalgic collectibles. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a coffee, take your time, and let the creativity spark.

🗺️ Address: 275 Franklin St, Rocky Mount, VA
🕰️ Pro tip: Their seasonal window displays are works of art all on their own!

🔎 Mid-Morning: Dig Into the Classics

Blue Ridge Antique Center

Just down the road, Blue Ridge Antique Center is a must for serious collectors and casual browsers alike. With over 40 vendor spaces under one roof, this multi-dealer emporium is packed with everything from mid-century kitchenware and Civil War relics to classic vinyl records and vintage signage.

🗺️ Address: 20100 Virgil H. Goode Hwy., Wirtz, VA
📦 What to look for: Country primitives, antique tools, and classic tin toys.

🧥 Late Morning: Quirky Finds and Retro Vibes

Old’s Cool

Step into a time machine at Old’s Cool, where retro reigns supreme. This funky little shop leans into nostalgia, with retro clothing, old-school lunchboxes, typewriters, and even vintage bicycles. It’s perfect for Instagram-worthy finds or adding a quirky touch to your home office.

🗺️ Address: 285 Franklin St, Rocky Mount, VA
📸 Fun find: Their record collection is a walk down memory lane.

🎁 Afternoon: Hidden Gems & Artful Upcycling

Kat’s Hidden Treasures

Next up: Kat’s Hidden Treasures, a cozy little nook filled with gently used home décor, seasonal accents, and antiques with stories to tell. Kat has a knack for finding vintage pieces and giving them a second life—think shabby chic meets grandma’s attic in the best way possible.

🗺️ Address: 26 Fieldcrest Rd., Ferrum, VA
🪞 What to look for: Painted mirrors, pressed-glass dishes, and garden-themed décor.

Reclaimed LLC

Wrap up your day at Reclaimed LLC, located near the shores of Smith Mountain Lake. This shop specializes in architectural salvage, reclaimed wood furniture, vintage doors, and barn finds. Whether you're restoring a farmhouse or just love the rustic vibe, you’ll find inspiration in every corner.

🗺️ Address:14190 Booker T. Washington Hwy, Moneta, VA
🛠️ Don’t miss: Handmade furniture from locally salvaged materials.

🛍️ Bonus Stops & Tips

• Pack light but bring extra space in the car—some finds just need to come home with you.

• Many vendors update inventory weekly, so it’s worth revisiting often.

• Ask about the stories behind items—locals love to share the history!

• Pair your shopping day with a live show at the Harvester Performance Center for a well-rounded experience.

✨ Final Thoughts

Antiquing in Franklin County isn’t just about the items you take home—it’s about the journey, the people you meet, and the stories that surround every weathered frame or distressed table. Whether you're furnishing a home, collecting vintage vinyl, or just enjoying the nostalgia, Franklin County offers a rich and rewarding experience.

So next time you’re craving a day off the beaten path, take a drive down the backroads of Franklin County and discover a world where old becomes new again—and every find has a story waiting to be told.