4 Ways to Shop for Antiques in New England

When we think of New England, we often think of the ocean, a lobster dinner and antique shops. "Antiquing" is the process of shopping for antiques or collectibles. You will find an abundance of antique shops in the New England area, from local dealers to historic houses.
STEPS

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RESEARCH NEW ENGLAND AREAS ONLINE OR THROUGH LOCAL TRAVEL BUREAUS FOR THE BEST ANTIQUING LOCATIONS. Map out a route using paper maps or a GPS (Global Positioning System.)

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CONSIDER SUCH LOCATIONS AS WOODBURY, CONNECTICUT, KNOWN AS THE ANTIQUE CAPITAL OF CONNECTICUT. It stretches along Route 5 and has over 30 antique dealers who carry items from all periods, and in all price ranges.
METHOD 1 OF 4: MASSACHUSETTS

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BOSTON IS A PREFERRED LOCATION FOR THOSE ANTIQUE SEEKERS WHO ALSO ENJOY THE BIG CITY ENVIRONMENT. Travel down Charles Street in Beacon Hill for a unique antiquing experience, where you can find furniture and collectibles located next to up-scale restaurants and high-end boutiques.
METHOD 2 OF 4: NEW HAMPSHIRE

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TRAVELING FURTHER UP THE MAP IS "ANTIQUE ALLEY", LOCATED IN NEW HAMPSHIRE. It is known as one of the most popular antique shopping areas in New England. It extends through the towns of Northwood, Lee, Epsom and Chichester and has more than 500 dealers. There are also shops located outside of the "alley" nearby on Route 4.
METHOD 3 OF 4: VERMONT

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ALMOST EVERY TOWN IN VERMONT BOASTS OF AN ANTIQUE SHOP. Many are small and quaint, but abound with endless treasures. Check web directories for towns you will be traveling near. There are over 30,000 shops listed in local directories for the Vermont area.
METHOD 4 OF 4: MAINE

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MAINE IS WELL KNOWN FOR ITS SELECTION OF ANTIQUE SHOPS AND PROVIDES ONE OF THE FINEST ANTIQUING EXPERIENCES IN THE UNITED STATES. Maine also offers a unique experience of viewing antiques in their traditional settings such as historic homes and inns.
TIPS
Consider starting a blog to highlight your own antiquing experiences and network with others. There are numerous ways to start a free blog online.
Use online directories and other websites to view images of antiques available at specific locations. Keep a list of those you are especially interested in to save time on your trip.
Use Google Maps to find exact locations of shops once you have decided on towns you wish to visit. These are clickable maps that allow you to obtain specific directions and often take you directly to a store's website.
Consider other excursions while on your antiquing trip. New England is well known for quiet, little-known destinations and National Parks.
Investigate Historical Society sites for each state that you wish to visit for information on antique shops and other historical interests.
Check Social Networking sites for groups of antique enthusiasts. This is a great opportunity to determine the best locations and the honest dealers.
SOURCES AND CITATIONS
http://www.travelchannel.com/Places_Trips/Travel_Ideas/Shopping/Americas_Best_Antique_Shopping
http://www.suncookvalley.com/antique_alley_nh.htm
http://www.antiquing.com/me.htm
ARTICLE INFO
Categories: Art & Antiques
Recent edits by: Maluniu
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