US 11 Antique Alley Verified listing

Nicknamed "Happenin", the US 11 Antique Alley and Yard Sale is certainly a hub for vintage enthusiasts. More than 30,000 visitors travel the 502-mile route. The antique and collectibles shopping spans five states and 80 participating towns from Meridian, Mississippi to Bristol, Virginia. If exploring the backroads of the Southern Appalachians sounds appealing, US 11 is the place to be.

Discover historic cities and charming downtowns along the way, including Birmingham, Alabama, and Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Dade County, Georgia, and Reece City, Alabama. Each community may have 100 or more booths. Vendors set up in courthouse squares, residential lawns and fields, and antique shops.

Started in 1997, US 11 Antique Alley is held annually on a four-day weekend after Mother's Day. Hours are flexible, but sunrise is a common starting time. Expect a variety of merchandise. In past years, shoppers have found  Mid-century metal gliders and wrought-iron patio furniture,  garden accessories, and architectural salvage. You can also pick up Coca-Cola memorabilia and signage, railroad lanterns and model cars, cameras, and musical instruments.

Artisans are on hand, too. Look for jars of local honey, funky sculptures, and crochet designs. Prices vary, but look for new and vintage quilts. Of course, food is a Highway Yard Sale perk. The region is known for buttery corn on the cob, fried chicken, barbecue, boiled peanuts, sweet tea, and craft beers.

Antiques come first, but towns plan special events during the happenin'. Country bands and bluegrass pickers play in mountain parks. If you're near Chattanooga, tune in to the fun and informative Radio Garage Sale on Saturday mornings. Or catch a drive-in movie at the world's largest outdoor theater in Trenton, Georgia.

US 11 Antique Alley and Yard Sale is a lively festival from start to finish. With hundreds of vendors, this sale is too good to miss.