How to Shop for Antiques in New England

New England is the favored American locale for both longtime and neophyte antiquers. As you wind your way along country roads and rocky shoreline drives, you'll discover everything from rare books to early American furniture and oil paintings.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Area Maps
• Local Guidebooks
• Rental Cars
• Rental cars

1. Get out the map and gas up the rental car, as New England has a multitude of antique shops lining its many roads. Locals favor the "antique alleys," which include Route 1 from Kittery to Bar Harbor in Maine, Route 101A and its cross streets in New Hampshire, Routes 7, 30 and 4 in Vermont and the small towns lining I-95 in Connecticut.

2. Head to Brimfield, Massachusetts, off of Route 20, for the biggest antique show in the United States. For a few days in May, July and September, the Brimfield Antique Show hosts more than 5,000 antique dealers. This show is a must-attend for anyone truly serious about antiques.

3. Stop in Newport, Rhode Island. This beautiful seaside town boasts 60 shops within a 10-mile radius.

4. Look for country antiques, such as dolls, quilts and baskets, in Vermont. You'll find antique navigational equipment and ship parts in Massachusetts. Furniture, lamps and paintings are available throughout New England.

5. Remember that summer is the season to catch the most shows, outdoor markets and auctions. If you plan to take in the fall foliage, you'll find numerous pieces in stores. Ask at the local visitor center about where to catch the colors and find antiques at the same time.

6. Dig, rummage and take your time. You may find buried treasure on cluttered countertops and stacked shelves.

Tips & Warnings

• Book accommodations well in advance, as this part of the country increases in popularity each year. Bed-and-breakfasts fill the small towns, offering guests great food and a sneak peek into New England life.
• Check out "Maine Antique Digest" to get a sense of what items cost. It lists the selling price of numerous items sold at regional antique auctions.
• Know your stuff to avoid paying exorbitant prices or getting duped by fakes. Get acquainted with a favorite period or genre before you shop or buy.