When I first moved to the Shoreline 25 years ago, the area was rife with antique shops. I had an old house to fill, so I’d buckle my daughter into her car seat and off we’d go. I had her trained so well that, as I made the right turn into the grocery store, she would check out the goods outside Treasures to the left and let me know if there was something worth stopping for. You’ve got to cultivate that eye young! I digress….Most of those shops are long gone (Treasures, of course, is still a go-to), but my penchant for looking at pretty old things will never die. My friend Kim shares my habit and is in the know about where to go. We set off for a day of hunting, starting in Stamford and meandering back through Norwalk, Bridgeport, and Stratford.

The Antiques and Artisan Gallery
This used to be a regular haunt of mine and is one of Stamford’s last survivors. Now it’s known for meticulously curated booths from every era and, yes, some steep price tags. Still, the thrill of stumbling upon a hidden gem at a fair price is possible. You’ll discover a trove of outdoor urns, planters, and furniture, and (weirdly) a surprisingly irresistible boutique of women’s clothing by a local designer at wallet-friendly prices.
theantiqueandartisangallery.com/

Avery & Dash, Stamford
This spot is a feast for the eyes, with high-end antiques artfully arranged and miles of exquisite chandeliers and lighting. I spied a few pristine pieces of Arts and Crafts pottery by Fulper and Marblehead, which always makes my heart skip a beat.
averydash.com

The Accessory Store, Stamford
In between Antiques & Artisan Gallery and Avery & Dash, you’ll find a rare thing: absolutely everything lighting: Think endless lampshades, a wall lined with finials, and every bulb or candle sleeve imaginable. They even handle repairs, making it a true one-stop shop.
stamfordshades.com

Fairfield County Antique and Design, Norwalk
There’s a wide stock of vintage to proper antiques here, from playful mid-century furniture and lighting to textiles, and if you’re on the hunt for a period bureau or tea table, you’ll likely find it here at a price that won’t make you wince.
fairfieldantiqueanddesign.com

Black Rock Gallery, Bridgeport
This sprawling warehouse is packed with an inventory of virtually everything old and not-so-much. We had a lot of fun poking around in here, but weren’t swayed by much, except this dollhouse. No, I didn’t buy it, but it was tempting!
blackrockgalleries.com

Stratford Antique Center
Collectors of vintage scarves, ironstone, old linens, and cowboy boots will have a heyday here. It’s exactly the sort of place where you’ll find a trinket you do not need but can’t pass up. 200 dealers. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063529181971&locale=cx_PH

You may also like: Shopping New Preston, CT