Thrifting in Kansas City: Boutique Shopping at Discount Prices

Although best known for barbecue and professional sports teams, Kansas City has enough museums and fantastic restaurants to keep you busy.

But shopping can get expensive. Thrift shops are a great way to shop 'til you drop without dropping your entire paycheck. It's also a sustainable way to save money—you purchase second-hand items from the store, saving them from hitting the landfill. Kansas City thrift shops have everything from locally produced items to gently used clothing, accessories, furniture, and more. There is no shortage of shopping here!

2251 NW Barry Rd, Kansas City, MO 64154

Savers is a nationwide company that has several locations throughout Kansas City and the surrounding areas. It's a well-known chain that has a little bit of everything for sale. The company has managed to keep about 700 million pounds of used, but still useful items out of landfills, and the Kansas City locations support Big Brother and Big Sister programs. Donations are always welcome and are accepted on-site. However, there are things they don't accept, so check the website first.

3922 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO 64110

This nonprofit thrift store supports the area in and around midtown KC. Troost39 Thrift Store supports several different local programs with store proceeds, and they are supplied through community donations. The store offers layaway services and a pick-up program for those in need.

This thrift store offers a selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories. Some staff are volunteers, while some are paid. They accept donations when the store is open, Tuesday through Saturday. Their website lists the types of items they accept, along with information on those they don't.

11933 S Strang Line Rd, Olathe, KS 66062

Kids grow so fast—too bad their clothes don't grow with them. Happily, KC Grow Co is there to help. This store specializes in gently used children's clothing, toys, and shoes. It's located in Olathe, just outside of Kansas City. KC Grow Co is family-owned and even has an online store.

KC Grow Co includes items for kids from newborns to teens and offers many name-brand items. They accept your gently used children's items, review them, and let you know how much you'll receive for either cash or a discount on future purchases.

3900 Pennsylvania Ave 2940., Kansas City, MO 64111

Boomerang organizes their stock by decade. Looking for the perfect '80s costume? Boomerang has your back. This store stocks a terrific blend of vintage and thrifty items, complete with an entire shelf of cowboy boots. You can even rent a complete outfit for your next costume party.

Boomerang has a huge selection and terrific customer service, a must-see store when you're shopping for something unique.

5028 NE Parvin Rd, Kansas City, MO 64117

All of City Thrift's locations are owned by the City Union Mission, a non-profit that supports the local community and homeless in the area. They provide a community assistance center, Christian Life Center, men's shelter, and a family shelter.

City Thrift stores offer a variety of houseware and vintage items that can help you outfit your home and wardrobe for less than buying them new. Plus, all the shops' proceeds go back to the City Union Mission to support their programs. If you want to donate your gently used items and make a direct impact on the Kansas City community, check their website for a list of accepted items and drop-off hours.

10325 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212

If you prefer having someone pick up your donated items, Blessings Abound can help. Fill out the form on their website, if you're in their pick-up area. Of course, you also can drop off items at either of their two stores. They accept various items like new and used clothing, children's toys, appliances, and furniture. If you're not sure, Blessings Abound's website has a detailed list of what they can and cannot accept.

Blessings Abound supports several local programs, including Hope Builders and Metro Lutheran Ministry. They provide youth opportunities and serve as an umbrella organization for several local groups. Blessings Abound also hosts special shopping nights and offers discounts on their already affordable stock.

4115 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64111

Need a nice outfit but can't spend on new clothes? Try Clothz Minded. It's more of a boutique shop than most thrift stores, but Clothz Minded buys and sells name-brand and designer clothing and accessories. They have open buying days, where you can go and sell your stuff and get either cash or store credit. Located in the Old Westport neighborhood of Kansas City, the store also sells products made by locals.

4804 S Noland Rd, Kansas City, MO 64133

This small thrift shop offers very affordable second-hand clothing, accessories, furniture, and homeware. All proceeds from Frugal's Family Thrift Store support In His Name Ministries of Independence. Despite its small size, Frugal's Family Thrift Store has a great selection, making it a perfect stop for your thrift shopping day.

3111 Gillham Rd, Kansas City, MO 64109

This unique venue is only open on the first Friday of the month. So planning is vital. However, if you are in town when it's open, the Urban Mining Vintage Market is a don't-miss opportunity to find unique items sourced by over 40 local entrepreneurs. You can find anything and everything here, including lighting and décor, textiles and clothing, jewelry, and art. The store is in a converted factory building and is huge. Be sure to give yourself time to explore. Their website shares hours and dates, plus photos of current inventory.

413 E 18th Street, Kansas City MO, 64108

KidsTLC and Wayside Waifs receive most of the benefits from Do Good Co. This non-profit vintage store really does do good deeds for the community. KidsTLC helps kids who have health and developmental challenges, while Wayside Waifs provides pet adoptions and resources.

Shopping here, you'll find a variety of designer items in addition to other gently used affordable brands. At Do Good Co., you'll be able to do something great for the community and your wallet.

Kansas City's location, straddling the border between Kansas and Missouri, makes it unique. And, after you've had some Kansas City barbecue, an afternoon exploring the area's best thrift shops is an afternoon well-spent. These stores have a lot to offer and many unusual vintage items. There are dozens of thrift stores in and around Kansas City, on both sides of the border, but these are some of the best. Happy shopping!