Antiquing can sometimes be an all day event. From the labyrinths of displays that weave you through various spaces, to elaborate displays, to sectioned ‘rooms’ each displaying their own vibe. When antiquing, the saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” couldn’t be more true. And nothing beats the thrill of hunting down a one of a kind bargain buy. But if you’re looking for a true, one-of-a-kind shopping experience in North Carolina, you can’t beat Whistle Stop Depot in Franklin. Whether you’re looking for that one special piece to complete a collection or just want to spend an afternoon browsing around, the Whistle Stop Depot is just the place, which is why we think it may just be the best antique mall in North Carolina.

(Editor’s note: some readers have noted that the Whistle Stop Depot has closed. While the old location on 441 is closed, they are still open at the new location: 145 River Road, Franklin NC 28734.)

Yelp / Whistle Stop Depot
Located amidst the beautiful Smoky Mountains, Whistle Stop Depot is tucked right into the beautiful scenery of Franklin. Whistle Stop was established in 1999 under the vision that the owner wanted shoppers to experience and walk through history.
Facebook / Whistle Stop Depot
Whistle Stop Antiques NC
While an antique mall, Whistle Stop offers multiple shopping sections that will take up almost more than a whole day. The Specialty Shops include Hodge Podge Consortium, an arts and crafts co-op with various items including knitting, doll clothes, quilts, and even Tupperware. There's also Kay's Place which features vintage china, dishes, glassware, custom made small furniture, and local handcrafts and arts. But wait...there's more...White Buffalo General Store, a self-described "blast from the past," with collectibles, vintage, bric a brac and antiques.

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Franklin-Chamber
The antique mall is incredible unique and encompasses over 23,000 square feet, 100 dealers, and thousands of one-of-a-kind items. Whatever you're looking for, you'll find it, and you might even stumble on a few things you can't walk away from without buying.
Whistle Stop Antiques NC
Whistle Stop Antiques NC
While so much space and so many items to choose from can indeed be overwhelming, there are plenty of books and guides offered through the store to help you. Items range from hardware and glassware to collectibles, candy, furniture, books, and clothes.
Yelp / Whistle Stop Depot
Whistle Stop even now has its own RV lot, for dealers or shoppers who want to spend more than a day in a beautiful location shopping for great vintage finds.

The Whistle Stop Depot is a must-visit for anyone who loves antiques. Have you ever been to the best antique mall in North Carolina? Share your experience with us in the comments and if you need more information, visit the shop’s website.

If you’re looking for more great antique shops, take a look at this list.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

best antique mall in North Carolina

Jackie Ann | February 15, 2020

What are the best places for antique shopping in North Carolina?

There are countless antique stores peppered around North Carolina, just waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re looking for something in particular to complete your collection or just browsing around, some of the best antique stores in North Carolina include the Key City Antique Mall in North Wilkesboro, the Antique Tobacco Barn in Asheville, Franklin’s Antique Mall in New Bern, Granddaddy’s Antique Mall in Burlington, and J L Kirkman’s Antique Mall in Bridgeton, North Carolina.

Are there any good vintage stores in North Carolina?

Vintage stores can be a great place to spice up your wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for a piece to complete a costume or just looking to add a little something different to your everyday look, there are several vintage stores around North Carolina that are ideal for your vintage needs. Some of the best vintage stores in North Carolina include Dolly’s Vintage in Durham, Screaming for Vintage in Pittsboro, Design Archives Emporium in Greensboro, and the Sleepy Poet Antique Mall in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Where can I go bargain shopping in North Carolina?

There’s nothing like the thrill of a bargain buy. While you may have to do a little digging, there are several bargain shopping opportunities in North Carolina where you’ll find all sorts of incredible treasures. Some of the most popular places for bargain shopping in North Carolina include Smiley’s in Fletcher, Uncle Bill’s Flea Market in Whittier, Jamestown Flea & Farmers Market in Morganton, and Cooks Flea Market in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. If you’re looking for thrift stores in North Carolina, you can’t go wrong with the Carolina Thrift Site in High Point, Retails Thrift Shop in Raleigh, and Dorcas Thrift Shop in Cary, North Carolina.

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145 River Rd, Franklin, NC 28734, USA