Houston - Antiquing Treasure Trove

Grandma’s rocker. A one-of-a-kind Oriental rug. The tintype portrait of a prairie family. An Arts-and-Crafts-era sideboard. Postcards from a century-old trip to Paris.

Whatever your pleasure, antiquing is alive and well in the Bayou City, where the pastime is a no-holds-barred pursuit for visitors and residents alike. Whether you prefer to browse cozy shops, signal your bid at an auction house or pick through period architectural elements at a salvage warehouse, you’re sure to find a favorite venue here.

Several neighborhoods are nationally known for their antiques and collectibles. Houston Heights — a charming village of shady streets and parks interspersed with 19th century homes — features a historical main street brimming with antique shops and galleries.

The Montrose area near downtown is home to a bevy of funky antique shops, galleries and second-hand stores, many cozily situated in historical homes.

In River Oaks — one of the city’s premier shopping districts — you can explore several large antique centers showcasing European finds rich in detail and craftsmanship and smaller shops specializing in interior design and antique home furnishings.

Just north of the Galleria is Antique Pavilion, an upscale, multi-dealer shop located between the River Oaks and Upper Kirby areas with many prized possessions waiting to be discovered.

Auctions are popular for acquiring antiques and collectibles. Look to the city’s fine arts auctioneers for a startling array of distinctive décor. Try to attend an estate auction for treasures like a $30,000-plus parade saddle or a Fabergé chess set. Many auction houses overflow with 18th, 19th and 20th century artwork, antique Asian and European porcelain, Oriental rugs and fine furniture.

Take an easy drive to Spring — just north of Houston — for one of the many weekly sales or explore the showrooms. Old Town Spring is a mecca for antique hunters, who can browse dozens of antique shops and specialty stores in a nostalgic, small-town setting. Also outside of town are the eclectic shops in Old Seabrook, offering a vast array of wares in an open-air marketplace surrounded by antique shops.

Whether you’re looking to fill an hour or a weekend antiquing in the area, you’re sure to head home with a treasure.

One of GuestLife Houston's favorite antique shops:

The Antique Pavilion »
An Upscale Multi-Dealer Shop.