Retro thrifting is having a major moment, and for good reason. Lucky for us, Akron and Summit County are quietly becoming one of Northeast Ohio’s best places for affordable, genuine vintage treasures. Not sure where to start? The Akron Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau (ASCVB) has made it easier than ever to find your next favorite store with the Treasure Trail, a self-guided map that connects you with twenty of the coolest spots for everything secondhand.

The guide features a variety of secondhand shopping options from antiques to thrift. But if you’re specifically searching for authentic vintage t-shirts, vinyl, retro collectibles, toys from your childhood, or just want to go on a journey through the quirkiest, most nostalgia-packed secondhand shops in the region, bookmark these retro shops along the Treasure Trail.

Seven Can’t-Miss Retro Stops Along the Trail:

Highland Throwbacks

777 W Market Street, Akron

The racks are bursting with vintage sportswear, bold graphics, and the kind of nostalgic pieces that make you say, “I had this exact shirt in middle school!” It’s a goldmine for vintage tees, denim, and 90s-core everything. Have some vintage tees you’re no longer wearing? Bring them in to sell or trade.

Lonia Vintage

1947 W Market Street, Akron

Another must for vintage t-shirt lovers, Lonia is beautifully effortlessly cool with its collection of soft, worn-in graphic tees alongside a selection of retro jackets and denim. Be sure to follow them on Instagram for weekly and daily drops of new arrivals.

Modern Traditions Co.

21 Furnace Street, Akron (inside Northside Marketplace)

Making the past present, Modern Traditions Co. is dedicated to preserving fashion history. They offer true vintage pieces that highlight decades past. From worn-in tees, to classic trench coats, and wool sweaters, this is a must for anyone serious about vintage fashion.

The Bomb Shelter

923 Bank Street, Akron

You can’t talk about Akron’s retro scene without mentioning The Bomb Shelter. I like to compare it to a vintage theme park. Appliances, bikes, signage, clothing, furniture, you name it, they have it. It’s wild in the best way possible, and one of the most unique shopping experiences in the region.

Retro Attic

2475 Massillion Road, Akron

This isn’t your grandma’s attic, it’s practically a retro museum. Prepare to have your jaw dropped when you walk in. Every corner and nook is beautifully filled with ultra-nostalgic treasures, vintage games, toys, clothing, sports memorabilia, and much more. Be sure to take a couple laps, look up, and look down, because you’ll be sure to discover something new every time.

The Strash

2725 Hudson Dr, Cuyahoga Falls

Walking into The Strash feels like stepping into a fully stocked estate sale. It’s an eclectic mix of retro home goods, collectibles, and quirky decor (they have a vintage coffin in the back!) that you didn’t know you needed. Every item is handpicked with a collector’s eye, making this a must-stop for treasure hunters.

Velvet Vintage

If you’re drawn to bold colors, patterns, and personality, this is your dream store. It’s equal parts playful and nostalgic, like thrifting with your cool big sister.

Make a Day or Weekend of It

You can easily turn this into a full-day adventure with local eats, coffee shops, and spontaneous detours in between. Here’s how:

Map your route using the ASCVB’s online map
Pick up a Treasure Trail Passport either from one of the participating stores or grab a digital passport online
Collect stamps by making a minimum of 16 purchases from now until Sept. 5, 2025
After you’ve collected at least 16 stamps, redeem your passport via the ASCVB to receive a limited edition Treasures Trail tote bag. You’ll also be automatically entered to win the grand prize for a $250 Treasure Trail gift package.

We want to see your finds! Tag your finds with the hashtag #SummitTreasureTrail.