Historic US Route 6
Thrift Store Road Trip Guide
Stretching from Provincetown, Massachusetts, to Long Beach, California, Historic US Route 6 embodies the essence of small-town America. It’s a highway of discovery—where antique storefronts, vintage diners, and nostalgic main streets reveal the nation’s enduring character. For those who love thrift shopping, Route 6 offers something extra special: a cross-country trail of secondhand treasures and timeless finds that tell the story of America’s past, one stop at a time.
Key Thrift Store Locations Along Route 6
1. Savers – Providence, Rhode Island
Start your journey in New England at Savers in Providence, a reliable favorite for vintage clothing, collectible décor, and regional curiosities. It’s the perfect place to pick up early-century New England finds before you hit the open road.
2. Second Glance Thrift Boutique – Gloucester, Massachusetts
Located just a short detour from the Route 6 corridor, this nonprofit gem supports local families and features a carefully curated collection of coastal décor, antique furniture, and nautical relics that reflect Massachusetts’ rich maritime heritage.
3. Treasure House Thrift Shop – Scranton, Pennsylvania
A beloved stop along the Pennsylvania leg of Route 6, the Treasure House is a community-run shop full of old-world charm. Expect vintage tools, Depression-era glassware, and small-town Americana that connects you directly with Route 6’s early travelers.
5. Assistance League Thrift Shop – Long Beach, California
Conclude your journey where the historic route meets the Pacific. The Assistance League Thrift Shop in Long Beach offers a blend of mid-century modern furniture, Hollywood-era fashion, and California surf culture finds—perfect reminders of your cross-country adventure.
Tips for Thrift Store Shopping on the Road
- Start Early, Shop Smart: Many thrift stores—especially in smaller Route 6 towns—have limited hours. Early morning stops ensure the best selection.
- Bring Cash and Reusable Bags: Some shops are cash-only, and reusable bags make it easy to pack your discoveries securely in your vehicle.
- Ask the Locals: Volunteers and shopkeepers often know the stories behind donated items or can point you to other great shops nearby.
- Track Your Finds: Use a note-taking app or travel journal to record where you found your treasures—it makes for great storytelling later.
- Plan for Space: If you fall in love with a large item, many post offices or UPS stores along Route 6 can help you ship it home safely.
Suggested Itinerary
Starting Point: Provincetown, Massachusetts
Ending Point: Long Beach, California
Estimated Duration: 8–12 days (for a relaxed, discovery-filled journey)
Day 1–2: Explore New England — Start in Provincetown, stopping in Providence and New Haven for early thrifting adventures.
Day 3–4: Pennsylvania & Ohio — Discover the Treasure House in Scranton and vintage spots in Cleveland’s west side.
Day 5–6: Midwest Memories — Hit Joliet, Illinois, and Davenport, Iowa, for antique malls and retro collectibles.
Day 7–8: The Great Plains to the Rockies — Visit Grand Junction and surrounding small-town shops for rustic finds.
Day 9–10: The California Coast — Conclude in Long Beach, reflecting on a cross-country thrift adventure that spans both time and history.
Conclusion
A Thrift Store Road Trip on Historic US Route 6 blends history, sustainability, and the joy of discovery. Every shop tells a story—from New England’s maritime heritage to California’s golden past. So pack your curiosity, hit the open road, and uncover the treasures waiting along America’s most storied highway. The finds you bring home will carry more than history—they’ll carry the spirit of Route 6 itself.