These 11 Quirky Shops In Virginia Are Worth A Detour For Unique Finds

Virginia is packed with shops that go beyond the ordinary, offering treasures you simply will not find anywhere else. From architectural salvage yards to quirky gift boutiques, these stores are destinations in themselves, each with a personality that reflects the creative spirit of the state.

Whether you are hunting for vintage furniture, handcrafted art, or oddities that spark conversation, Virginia has a shop that will surprise and delight you.

Many of these places have become beloved landmarks, drawing visitors from across the region who appreciate the thrill of discovering something truly special.

If you are tired of cookie-cutter retail experiences and crave the charm of locally owned businesses, this list is for you.

These 11 quirky shops are worth every mile of the detour, offering unique finds and unforgettable shopping adventures.

1. Black Dog Salvage

Fans of the television series Salvage Dawgs already know about this legendary spot in Roanoke, but even if you have never seen the show, this place is a must-visit.

Black Dog Salvage is a sprawling wonderland of architectural salvage, where you can find everything from antique doors and vintage lighting fixtures to reclaimed wood and industrial hardware.

Walking through the warehouse feels like stepping into a time capsule filled with pieces of history. Each item has a story, whether it is a stained glass window from an old church or wrought iron railings from a historic building.

The staff is knowledgeable and passionate, always ready to share the backstory of a particular find or offer advice on how to incorporate salvaged pieces into your home.

Beyond the salvage treasures, the store also features creative upcycled furniture and decor that showcase the endless possibilities of repurposing. It is a place where imagination meets craftsmanship, and every corner reveals something unexpected.

Whether you are a DIY enthusiast, a professional designer, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of aged materials, Black Dog Salvage offers an inspiring experience. The sheer variety and quality of items make it easy to lose track of time as you explore.

Located at 902 13th Street SW in Roanoke, this shop proves that one person’s discarded treasure can become another’s prized possession. Plan to spend a few hours here, because once you start browsing, it is hard to leave.

2. The Old Lucketts Store

Nestled in the countryside between Leesburg and Berryville, The Old Lucketts Store has earned a loyal following among antique lovers and interior design enthusiasts.

This charming destination is famous for its constantly rotating inventory, ensuring that every visit brings fresh discoveries and new inspiration.

Shabby chic furniture, vintage linens, and rustic farmhouse decor fill the shelves and display areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The shop hosts special sale events throughout the year that draw crowds eager to snag one-of-a-kind pieces before they disappear.

What sets this store apart is the carefully curated selection that balances nostalgia with functionality. You might find a weathered wooden ladder perfect for displaying quilts, or a collection of vintage bottles ideal for a centerpiece.

Each item seems chosen with an eye for both beauty and practicality.

The surrounding area adds to the appeal, with rolling hills and scenic views that make the drive feel like part of the adventure. Many visitors combine a trip to the store with exploring nearby farms, wineries, and historic sites.

The Old Lucketts Store is located at 42350 Lucketts Road, and it has become more than just a shopping destination. It is a place where the past comes alive through thoughtfully preserved objects, and where shoppers leave with treasures that add character to their homes.

If you appreciate vintage style with a touch of elegance, this store deserves a spot on your Virginia shopping itinerary.

3. Vintage Trixie

Tucked away in Chesapeake at 112a Wayne Avenue, Vintage Trixie is a delightful surprise for anyone who loves the unusual and the artistic. This shop has built a reputation for offering found art creations, unique vintage items, and oddities that you simply cannot find at mainstream retailers.

The eclectic inventory changes frequently, making each visit feel like a treasure hunt. You might stumble upon handmade jewelry, quirky home decor, vintage clothing, or repurposed art pieces that spark conversation.

The shop also hosts special events that bring the community together, creating a vibrant atmosphere that goes beyond typical retail.

What makes Vintage Trixie truly special is the personal touch evident in every aspect of the store. The owners have cultivated a space that feels welcoming and creative, where customers can browse at their own pace and discover items that reflect their individual style.

The store appeals to a wide range of shoppers, from collectors seeking rare finds to gift hunters looking for something truly original. Many regulars praise the friendly service and the genuine passion the owners have for their curated collection.

Vintage Trixie proves that small shops can offer big experiences. It is a place where creativity flourishes, and where the joy of discovery is part of the shopping experience.

If you are in the Chesapeake area and crave something different from the usual shopping routine, this charming store will not disappoint. Its blend of vintage charm and artistic flair makes it a standout destination in Virginia.

4. Rest In Pieces

Richmond’s Rest in Pieces, located at 349 South Laurel Street, is not your average gift shop. This fascinating store specializes in oddities, crystals, minerals, and taxidermy art, creating an atmosphere that is equal parts intriguing and enchanting.

Walking through the door feels like entering a cabinet of curiosities, where every shelf holds something unexpected. From ethically sourced taxidermy to sparkling geodes and rare minerals, the collection is both educational and visually stunning.

The owners have carefully curated items that appeal to collectors, nature enthusiasts, and anyone with an appreciation for the unusual.

What truly sets Rest in Pieces apart is the welcoming vibe created by the owners, who are described by visitors as cool, friendly, and knowledgeable. They are happy to explain the origins of items, share information about crystals and their properties, or simply chat about the fascinating world of oddities.

The shop has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a refreshing alternative to conventional retail. It is a place where curiosity is encouraged and where learning happens naturally through exploration.

Whether you are searching for a unique gift, expanding a collection, or simply want to experience something different, Rest in Pieces delivers. The combination of unusual inventory and genuine hospitality makes it memorable.

This Richmond gem proves that shopping can be an adventure when you step outside the ordinary. If you are drawn to the mysterious, the beautiful, or the just plain interesting, make sure to add this shop to your Virginia travel plans.

5. Strasburg Emporium Antiques

Spanning over 55,000 square feet at 160 North Massanutten Street in Strasburg, the Strasburg Emporium Antiques is a paradise for anyone who loves vintage treasures and collectibles. The sheer size of this place is impressive, but what really stands out is how well-organized everything is, making it easy to navigate despite the massive inventory.

From retro furniture to vintage toys, classic books to nostalgic advertising signs, the variety here is staggering. Each section of the emporium offers a different era or theme, allowing shoppers to focus on their specific interests or simply wander and discover unexpected gems.

Collectors will appreciate the depth of the selection, with items ranging from affordable small collectibles to significant antique pieces. Book lovers, in particular, will find plenty to explore, with shelves dedicated to vintage and rare titles spanning multiple genres and time periods.

The emporium attracts both serious collectors and casual browsers, creating a diverse shopping environment where everyone can find something appealing. The staff is helpful without being intrusive, letting visitors explore at their own pace while being available to answer questions or provide information about specific items.

Many shoppers make the Strasburg Emporium a regular destination, returning often to see what new items have arrived. The constantly changing inventory ensures that no two visits are exactly the same.

Located in the heart of Strasburg, this antique haven is well worth the trip for anyone who appreciates the charm of vintage items and the thrill of finding that perfect piece to take home.

6. Floyd Country Store

At 206 South Locust Street in Floyd, the Floyd Country Store is far more than a typical general store. This beloved community hub has become famous for its live music events, particularly the Friday Night Jamboree, which draws locals and visitors for foot-stomping bluegrass and old-time music.

Beyond the music, the store offers an excellent selection of handmade items created by local artisans. You will find everything from handcrafted ornaments and pottery to original artwork and woven goods.

Each piece reflects the creative spirit of the Blue Ridge Mountain region.

The atmosphere inside is warm and welcoming, with wooden floors that have absorbed decades of dancing feet and walls adorned with local art. It is a place where tradition meets creativity, and where community connections are as important as commerce.

Shoppers appreciate the authenticity of the merchandise, knowing that their purchases support local craftspeople and artists. The store has become a showcase for the talent thriving in this small mountain town, giving artisans a platform to share their work with a wider audience.

Visiting Floyd Country Store is an experience that engages all the senses. The sound of live music, the sight of beautiful handmade goods, and the friendly conversations with staff and fellow visitors create lasting memories.

If you are exploring the scenic mountain roads of Virginia, Floyd deserves a stop. The Country Store captures the essence of what makes small-town Virginia special, offering genuine hospitality alongside unique shopping opportunities that you will not find in any chain store.

7. Southwest Virginia Cultural Center and Marketplace

Also known as Heartwood, this impressive facility at 1 Heartwood Circle in Abingdon serves as both a cultural center and a marketplace dedicated entirely to showcasing the work of artisans from Southwest Virginia. The building itself is architecturally striking, designed to reflect the heritage and natural beauty of the region.

Inside, you will find a carefully curated gallery shop featuring an incredible array of arts and crafts. From handwoven textiles and traditional pottery to contemporary jewelry and woodwork, every item is created by local artists who call this part of Virginia home.

What makes Heartwood special is its commitment to authenticity. Every product sold here is genuinely made in Southwest Virginia, ensuring that your purchase supports the local creative economy and preserves traditional crafts.

The center also offers educational exhibits and demonstrations that help visitors understand the cultural heritage behind the artwork.

Shoppers appreciate the high quality of the merchandise and the opportunity to learn about the artists behind each piece. Many items come with information about the creator, adding a personal connection that enhances the shopping experience.

The center has become a destination for tourists exploring the Virginia Crooked Road music trail and the surrounding Appalachian region. It provides a perfect stop to stretch your legs, appreciate local talent, and find meaningful gifts or souvenirs.

Heartwood represents the best of Virginia’s artisan community, offering visitors a chance to take home a piece of the region’s creative spirit. The combination of beautiful merchandise and cultural education makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in authentic Appalachian arts.

8. World of Mirth

Located at 3005 West Cary Street in Richmond’s trendy Carytown district, World of Mirth is a toy store that delights visitors of all ages. This is not a place filled with mass-market plastic toys, but rather a carefully curated collection of unique, creative, and often educational items that spark imagination.

Children will find plenty to love, from classic wooden toys and creative building sets to books that encourage reading and exploration. Parents appreciate the focus on quality over quantity, with toys that promote creative play rather than passive entertainment.

Adults, however, will be equally enchanted by the selection of games, puzzles, and quirky gifts that go far beyond typical toy store offerings. The shop features non-mainstream books, clever adult games, and nostalgic items that bring back childhood memories while appealing to grown-up sensibilities.

The staff at World of Mirth are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, often able to recommend the perfect gift based on a customer’s interests or needs. Their genuine passion for the products they sell creates a shopping experience that feels personal and thoughtful.

World of Mirth has become a Carytown institution, drawing both locals and tourists who appreciate its unique approach to retail. It is a place where browsing is encouraged and where you are likely to discover something you did not know you needed.

If you are shopping for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to something fun, this Richmond gem offers a refreshing alternative to generic retail. The joy and creativity evident throughout the store make every visit memorable.

9. Kitsch

Norfolk’s Kitsch, situated at 1513 Colley Avenue, is a small shop with a big heart and an even bigger commitment to supporting local artists and crafters. Everything in this charming store is handmade by creative individuals from the area, giving each product a special and personal quality that mass-produced items simply cannot match.

The inventory is diverse and constantly evolving, featuring items like handcrafted jewelry, original art prints, handmade soaps, unique home decor, and creative gifts that you will not find anywhere else. Each piece reflects the personality and skill of its maker, resulting in a shopping experience that feels intimate and meaningful.

Walking into Kitsch feels inspiring, with colorful displays and creative arrangements that showcase the talent of local artisans. The shop has cultivated a welcoming environment where customers can take their time exploring and where questions about the artists and their techniques are always welcome.

Supporting local creators is at the heart of Kitsch’s mission, and shoppers appreciate knowing that their purchases directly benefit the people who made them. This connection between buyer and maker adds value that goes beyond the physical product.

The shop has become a beloved part of the Norfolk community, attracting both residents looking for unique gifts and visitors seeking authentic local products. Many customers return regularly to see what new creations have arrived.

Kitsch proves that small shops can make a big impact by focusing on quality, creativity, and community. If you are in Norfolk and want to support local talent while finding truly original items, this shop is an absolute must-visit.

10. The Old Town Shop

Perfectly positioned at 104 South Union Street in historic Alexandria, The Old Town Shop captures the spirit and charm of one of Virginia’s most beloved neighborhoods. This locally oriented boutique specializes in Alexandria-themed gifts, books, and merchandise that celebrate the rich history and unique character of the area.

From locally authored books about Alexandria’s past to decorative items featuring iconic landmarks, the shop offers products that help visitors take home a piece of the city’s heritage. Many items are exclusive to this store, making them genuine one-of-a-kind souvenirs rather than generic tourist trinkets.

The shop also features work by local artists and craftspeople, including prints of Alexandria streetscapes, handmade ornaments depicting historic buildings, and creative items inspired by the city’s waterfront and cobblestone streets. Each product tells a story about this historic community.

Shoppers appreciate the thoughtful curation and the obvious love for Alexandria that informs every aspect of the store. The staff is knowledgeable about local history and happy to share recommendations for exploring the neighborhood or to help customers find the perfect memento.

The Old Town Shop has become a favorite stop for both tourists discovering Alexandria for the first time and locals looking for meaningful gifts that reflect their hometown pride. Its location in the heart of Old Town makes it easy to visit while exploring the historic district.

If you want a souvenir that genuinely represents the place you visited rather than something generic, this shop delivers. It is a reminder that the best mementos are those that capture the authentic essence of a destination.

11. Far East Trading Company

Virginia Beach’s Far East Trading Company at 701 Lynnhaven Parkway is an adventure for the senses, packed from floor to ceiling with imported treasures from around the world. Walking through the door is like stepping into an exotic bazaar, with every corner revealing something new and unexpected.

The store specializes in unique home decor, furniture, and accessories that bring global style into your living space. You will find intricately carved wooden pieces, colorful textiles, decorative screens, and furniture that ranges from traditional to contemporary Asian-inspired designs.

One of the highlights is the impressive selection of crystals, minerals, and gemstones, displayed in ways that showcase their natural beauty. The store also features a large variety of live bamboo plants, perfect for adding a touch of nature and good fortune to any home.

What makes Far East Trading Company special is the sheer abundance and variety of merchandise. No matter how many times you visit, you will always discover something you missed before.

The inventory changes regularly, with new shipments bringing fresh items from overseas.

Shoppers enjoy the treasure hunt atmosphere, never quite knowing what they might find tucked away in a corner or displayed on a high shelf. The store appeals to interior designers, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the artistry of handcrafted imported goods.

Far East Trading Company offers an escape from ordinary shopping, transporting visitors to distant lands through carefully selected merchandise. If you are in Virginia Beach and crave something truly different, this store is well worth exploring.