Are you captivated by the charm of vintage finds and the thrill of uncovering hidden gems? Like many, my fascination with antique malls began in childhood, exploring these treasure troves with family. While I often leave empty-handed, the joy is in the browse – a testament to the slightly higher prices that prevent my impulse buys from taking over!
In Arlington, Texas, one destination stands out for antique enthusiasts and casual browsers alike: Cooper Street Antique Mall. The name is straightforward, and the experience is exactly as promised – a vast antique mall located on Cooper Street. My wife and I have spent countless hours wandering through its expansive aisles. Spanning a remarkable 53,000 square feet, it proudly holds the title of the largest antique mall in Arlington. Comfortable shoes are definitely recommended for a visit here!
Exterior view of Cooper Street Antique Mall in Arlington, Texas, showcasing its large size and entrance.
Sharing a parking area with a Wal-Mart and a former department store, Cooper Street Antique Mall might seem unassuming from the outside. Interestingly, the building has a history as a western apparel store, a detail that adds a touch of local flavor to its story. Don’t let the location fool you; the real treasures are inside. The mall is thoughtfully organized with numerous aisles and over 200 unique booths. Reflecting the diverse world of antiques, you’ll find booths dedicated to specific themes alongside eclectic mixes of everything imaginable. Expect a delightful blend of kitsch, collectibles, vintage elegance, and retro cool.
On our recent visit, we were impressed by the sheer variety on display, including:
- Advertising Collectibles: Vintage tins and eye-catching signs that evoke nostalgia.
- Pop Culture Memorabilia: Toys, comics, and items that bring back memories of different eras.
- Sports Memorabilia: Items that would excite any sports fan, from cards to signed memorabilia.
- Figurines and Knick-Knacks: Delicate glassware, charming teacups, and practical kitchenware with vintage appeal.
- Media Treasures: A wide selection of books and records, alongside CDs and cassettes for music lovers.
- Jewelry: From sparkling costume jewelry to authentic antique pieces.
- Textiles and Furniture: Linens, quilts, vintage clothing, and furniture pieces with character.
While these categories are typical of many antique malls, Cooper Street Antique Mall consistently offers unique and exciting finds for every taste.
Some personal highlights from my visit included:
- Dallas Stars Memorabilia: A must-see for local sports enthusiasts.
- Shiner Bock Neon Beer Sign: A classic piece of Texas bar decor.
- Oversized Bailey’s Mug: A novelty item that’s sure to spark conversation.
- Turtle Barbershop Chair for Kids: A whimsical and nostalgic piece.
Collage of vintage items at Cooper Street Antique Mall, including a Shiner Bock neon sign and Dallas Stars memorabilia.
Another collage showcasing highlights from Cooper Street Antique Mall, featuring glassware and collectible items.
However, my absolute favorite discovery was a set of vintage post office boxes (or possibly post office cabinets). These fascinating relics, likely from a post office or apartment building, each feature a combination lock for secure mail retrieval. I personally own a single one of these, a cherished Christmas gift from my parents from 30 years ago, now repurposed as a bank.
Close-up of vintage post office boxes at Cooper Street Antique Mall, highlighting their aged metal and combination locks.
Speaking of banks, it’s always a surprising and captivating experience to stumble upon an entire booth dedicated to a single type of item. These curated collections often represent years of passion and dedication, possibly the result of downsizing or part of an estate. During our visit, we encountered a booth overflowing with piggy banks – an astonishing number that was impossible to count!
Booth filled with a vast collection of piggy banks at Cooper Street Antique Mall, showcasing the variety and quantity.
For me, an afternoon spent in an antique mall far surpasses the typical shopping mall experience. Cooper Street Antique Mall is a genuinely enjoyable destination in South Arlington, even for those who, like myself, aren’t avid shoppers. In fact, I previously recommended it in my blog post, “12 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Arlington,” as an excellent place to find unique gifts for those who seem to have everything.
It’s worth noting that the same people behind Cooper Street Antique Mall also own the Montgomery Street Antique Mall in Fort Worth. While both are fantastic, I have a slight preference for the Montgomery Street location due to its beautiful historic building. Nevertheless, both malls provide a wonderful way to spend a few hours indoors, especially when the Texas heat is in full swing. You truly never know what treasures you might discover.
Cooper Street Antique Mall
4905 S. Cooper Street
Arlington, TX 76017
www.cooperstreetantiquemall.com
Article and images by Jason S. Sullivan, 04-27-21
