Exploring Old Town Antique Mall In Mcalester, Ok
Exploring Old Town Antique Mall In Mcalester, Ok
As an avid antique collector, I was thrilled to stumble upon Old Town Antique Mall during a recent road trip through Oklahoma. This hidden gem in the heart of McAlester, OK, is a must-visit for anyone interested in vintage and antique finds.
What is Old Town Antique Mall?
Old Town Antique Mall is a large indoor antique mall that features over 50 vendors selling a wide variety of antiques and vintage items. The mall is located in a historic building in the heart of downtown McAlester and is open seven days a week.
What can you find at Old Town Antique Mall?
The mall features a diverse selection of antiques and vintage items, including furniture, glassware, pottery, jewelry, books, and more. You can spend hours browsing through the different booths and uncovering unique treasures.
Step-by-Step Guide for Exploring Old Town Antique Mall
1. Give yourself plenty of time: With over 50 vendors to explore, plan to spend at least a few hours browsing through the mall. You don’t want to rush through and miss out on any great finds.
2. Bring cash: While some vendors may accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially if you plan on haggling for a better price.
3. Dress comfortably: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and bending down to examine items, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
4. Take a break: The mall has a small café where you can grab a snack or drink to refuel during your shopping expedition.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Shopping at Old Town Antique Mall
1. Have a plan: Before you go, make a list of items you’re looking for or styles you’re interested in. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed.
2. Check for sales: Some vendors may have sales or discounts on certain items, so keep an eye out for signs or ask the vendor if they have any specials.
3. Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask vendors questions about their items, such as the history or maker. They may have interesting stories to share.
4. Look for unique finds: One of the best things about antique shopping is finding one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find anywhere else. Keep an open mind and be on the lookout for unique treasures.
5. Consider the condition: While some wear and tear can add character to an antique item, make sure to inspect it for any major damage or repairs that may affect its value or usability.
6. Negotiate: Many vendors are willing to negotiate on prices, so don’t be afraid to make an offer. Just be respectful and don’t lowball.
7. Look high and low: Don’t just focus on eye-level items. Be sure to check out the booths at different heights, including near the ground and up high on shelves.
8. Take measurements: If you’re shopping for furniture or other large items, make sure to measure the space where you plan to put it to ensure it will fit.
9. Bring a tote bag: It’s always a good idea to bring a tote bag or two to carry your purchases. Some vendors may also provide bags, but it’s better to be prepared.
10. Have fun: Shopping for antiques should be a fun and enjoyable experience, so take your time, soak up the history and nostalgia, and appreciate the unique finds you come across.
Pros and Cons of Old Town Antique Mall
Like any shopping experience, there are both pros and cons to visiting Old Town Antique Mall.
Pros:
- Large selection of vendors and items
- Unique finds and one-of-a-kind treasures
- Historic building with character and charm
- Friendly and knowledgeable vendors
- Reasonable prices, with room for negotiation
Cons:
- Can get crowded, especially on weekends
- Some vendors may be overpriced or have items in poor condition
- Limited parking in the surrounding area
- May be overwhelming for those who aren’t familiar with antique shopping
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I had a fantastic experience shopping at Old Town Antique Mall. The variety of items and vendors was impressive, and I found several unique treasures to take home with me. The historic building added to the charm of the shopping experience, and the vendors were friendly and knowledgeable.
My only suggestion would be to visit during the week or early in the day on weekends to avoid the crowds. It can get quite busy on weekends, and it may be harder to navigate through the booths and find the items you’re looking for.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Is Old Town Antique Mall open every day?
A: Yes, the mall is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm.
Q: Is there a fee to enter Old Town Antique Mall?
A: No, there is no fee to enter the mall.
Q: Are there restrooms available at Old Town Antique Mall?
A: Yes, there are restrooms located within the mall.
Q: Do vendors accept credit cards?
A: Some vendors may accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to bring cash just in case.
Q: Is there parking available near Old Town Antique Mall?
A: There is limited street parking available near the mall, but there are also several public parking lots within a few blocks.