Ohio Thrift Store: A Treasure Trove of Secondhand Gems

This massive Columbus thrift store draws bargain hunters from across the state with its unbeatable prices and endless inventory.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Ohio Thrift Store on East Broad Street in Columbus has become a legendary destination for thrift enthusiasts, collectors, and sustainable shoppers across Ohio. The cavernous space stretches out like an Aladdin's cave of pre-loved possibilities, where the typical rules of retail pricing have been gloriously abandoned. Visitors from all over the state make the pilgrimage regularly, their vehicles' trunks emptied in anticipation of the haul to come.

Why it matters

In an era of fast fashion and disposable everything, Ohio Thrift Store represents a push back against our throwaway culture. Every item purchased is one less thing in a landfill and one less demand for new production, making it an appealing destination for sustainability-minded shoppers. The store's diverse customer base also creates a uniquely democratic shopping environment that draws people across socioeconomic lines.

The details

The store's massive inventory is meticulously organized, with clothing racks stretching out in endless rows and a housewares department that draws interior decorators and homemakers alike. Furniture, books, electronics, and more can all be found at a fraction of their retail prices. The staff work tirelessly to maintain order and help customers find what they're looking for, even setting aside items for regular shoppers.

  • Ohio Thrift Store opened in the summer of 1975.
  • The store sees an influx of seasonal items like camping gear and outdoor equipment in the summer, and an abundance of back-to-school supplies and unwanted holiday gifts in the fall and winter.

The players

Ohio Thrift Store

A local thrift store in Columbus, Ohio that has become a destination for bargain hunters across the state with its massive inventory, unbeatable prices, and unique shopping experience.

Resellers

Entrepreneurial shoppers who carefully comb through the store's racks looking for valuable vintage pieces or designer items that can be flipped for profit online.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The thrill of discovery combined with the joy of getting a deal makes shopping at Ohio Thrift so satisfying.”

— Professor, from Miami University in Oxford

“I make the drive to Ohio Thrift monthly because the staff now recognize me and sometimes set aside vintage cookbooks they know I collect.”

— Regular Shopper, from Chillicothe

What’s next

Ohio Thrift Store regularly updates its social media pages and website with information on sales, special events, and seasonal inventory rotations. Shoppers can plan their visits accordingly to take advantage of the best deals.

The takeaway

Ohio Thrift Store has become a beloved institution in Ohio, offering an unparalleled shopping experience that combines the thrill of the hunt with the satisfaction of scoring amazing deals. Its commitment to sustainability and community-driven values make it a unique destination that transcends the typical thrift store experience.