“How much for this gramophone?” I asked. The elderly gentleman behind the counter in Stars Antique Mall smiled at me, then peered expertly at the item I had had my eye on since I walked in 40 minutes ago. Antique shopping in Portland’s Sellwood never disappoints in the treasure-hunting realm. 

His warbling, yet authoritative answer: “I can sell that to you for $300.”

Whew, too rich for my blood! (Yes, I’m cheap.) Hey, I did see a pristine-looking Beatles LP for $10 in the back. Think I’ll get that instead.

Stars Antique Mall is expansive space and a paradise for those who love to explore an even broader selection of antiques and collectibles. Think of it as a grand adventure, where each booth, curated by individual vendors, offers its own slice of history and personality. Shoppers can sift through an eclectic mix of retro kitchenware, enchanting estate jewelry, mid-century modern furniture, and rare books that seem to whisper secrets from another time. What sets Stars apart is its community vibe – it’s more than a store; it’s a gathering place for antique lovers and history buffs, sharing stories and discoveries. It’s this sense of connection, combined with the thrill of the hunt, that makes Stars Antique Mall a uniquely captivating destination in Portland’s vibrant antique scene.

Antique Stores in Portland, Oregon

I simply love wandering around in any antique shop; the smells alone take me back to a simpler time. I can close my eyes and linger over the myriad display of early 20^th century Time magazines and immediately I am brought back to the age of 3, sitting in my grandparents living room, my grandfather reading the national news. Or walk past a display of 100+ year old  furniture as the smell of Linseed oil permeates the air. Whether I’m in the market to buy or not, I always at least stick my nose in any antique store I come across in my travels.

I am in Portland’s antique mecca: the Sellwood/Eastmoreland Neighborhood. There are many antique stores all over Portland, but Sellwood has the largest concentration of them, six in all.

Straddling the east side of the Willamette River, south of Powell Blvd, the town of Sellwood (named after Rev. John Sellwood, a pioneer Episcopal minister,) was incorporated in 1883, and annexed into the city of Portland ten years later. But antique lovers do not fret, you can drag along your non-antique-going friends and family, for there is much else to do in this lovely neighborhood.

Shopping in Sellwood Portland

There is ooldles of other shopping and eats along SE Milwaukie Ave. and adjacent 13^th Ave. Here is but a small sampling:

Unique Antique – The name says it all.

Strolling into Unique Antique is like stepping into a treasure trove of yesteryears. Here, shoppers can find a dizzying array of items, from vintage jewelry that whispers tales of decades past to vinyl records that play the soundtrack of a bygone era. The store’s collection of antique furniture and decor can transform any living space into a picturesque scene from a history book. Each visit promises new discoveries, as the inventory is as eclectic and vibrant as Portland itself.

SuitsmeFine.org – An awesome book store.

Columbia Sportswear Outlet Store – Get your discounted sportswear, where it all began.

Sock Dreams Shop (below) Explorersue’s Top Groovy Pick!

Years ago, there was a girl (Niqkita) whose feet were always cold. Fetishize Me (their original name) went live in 2000, and Niqkita’s dream of selling socks was born. The business became Sock Dreams in 2003 and is now a thriving retail store and successful e-shop. Happy toes make happy Sock Dreamers!! 

Oodles 4 Kids Fun-tastic shopping for the entire family.

13 Virtues Brewing Co. – yes, they brew their own beer.

Fat Albert’s Breakfast Café – A diner-style hang-out that is a locals favorite.

Reverend’s BBQ – ‘Nuff said. Just go there.

** See a full listing of what this wonderful, historic Portland neighborhood has to offer at www.sellwoodwestmoreland.com

Drive north about two miles and you’ll run into Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. A peaceful respite from all that shopping and eating (that is, if you don’t want to take a nap, first). Take a stroll along the paved trail that winds its way south along the Willamette River. You’re bound to see a variety of birds, such as quail, woodpeckers, and a great blue heron or two.