The owners of the Antique Alley in Santa Barbara, California, believe that shopping should be truly entertaining. The fun comes from the hunt for that special item, coming across something totally unexpected, creating a wonderful atmosphere in the store, and employing friendly and helpful staff. It is these ingredients that are key factors in the ongoing success of this store. Thanks to this, shoppers coming back again and again, and collectors know they will always find treasure here.

The Antique Alley has its root in the Santa Barbara swap meet in the 1980s. Thanks to its success here, it was able to grow into an independent store, initially a small space on the beachfront. Since 1993, it has been at its present location on State Street, and since being here it has been able to expand. The family-owned business is now home to more than 25 different vendors. This organic growth over the years speaks to the quality of the items found here.

From the outside, Antique Alley looks intriguing and definitely invites you in. Often, there are a couple of racks of vintage clothes spilling out of the front doors, just to be extra tempting. As well as clothing, shoppers can expect to find artwork, jewelry, light fixtures, chinaware, postcards, small musical instruments, items of furniture, fans, vases, ornamental items, vinyl records, curios, and more.

Antique Alley is set out in such a way that shoppers are encouraged deeper into the store. On entering, one walks down an aisle with vendors left and right displaying lovely items. Further into the store are distinct rooms with more items within, and at the very back is a small, outdoor covered patio, with a few more vintage things to see. It really feels like exploring more than shopping, and you never know what you will come home with after visiting.