Whether you’re a vintage-fashion hunter, a DIY home–decor buff, or just love the thrill of a bargain, Bakersfield has a surprisingly rich thrifting scene. From nonprofit boutiques that give back to the community to warehouses packed with retro treasures, these thrift shops prove that the “Golden Empire” is also a gold mine for second-hand finds. Below are seven local favorites to explore the next time you’re cruising around town (ideally in your sleek ride from Jim Burke Lincoln, of course).
Downtown Thrift
1320 19th St., Downtown
Housed in a restored storefront on 19th Street, Downtown Thrift is a master class in organization—every rack and shelf is meticulously sorted, making treasure hunting a breeze. Vintage Hot Wheels, mid-century glassware, and color-blocked clothing displays keep regulars coming back week after week.
Bargain Box Thrift Store (Assistance League Bakersfield)
1924 Q St., Downtown
Run entirely by Assistance League volunteers, Bargain Box feels like the ultimate community closet: tidy racks of name-brand clothing sit beside rows of kitchen gadgets, books, and seasonal décor. All proceeds fuel local philanthropic programs, so every purchase stretches its value well beyond the price tag.
Junk-Atique Outlet
212 21st St., Downtown
Part thrift shop, part global mission hub, Junk-Atique packs vintage furniture, concert tees, vinyl, and quirky collectibles into a sprawling warehouse space. Profits support humanitarian projects abroad, so you can snag a 1970s lamp and know your dollars are doing good overseas.
In Your Wildest Dreams Antiques & Consignments
2819 F St., Downtown
Equal parts thrift store, antique mall, and costume shop, In Your Wildest Dreams is a two-story wonder crammed with designer labels, estate jewelry, and film-set-worthy props. Shoppers praise the constantly rotating displays—come for a pair of vintage Levi’s, leave with a velvet fainting couch.
Encore Boutique (Mission at Kern County)
815 E. 21st St., East Bakersfield
Operated by The Mission at Kern County, Encore Boutique specializes in curated clothing and home goods. Think boutique vibes at thrift-store prices—plus the knowledge that every purchase helps fund meals, shelter, and job-training programs for neighbors in need.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore Bakersfield
5101 White Lane, Southwest
If your DIY radar is tingling, head straight to ReStore. You’ll find gently used furniture, appliances, and building materials (hello, reclaimed barn doors) at steep discounts. All sales support Habitat’s local home-building and repair projects, making your upcycling spree doubly sustainable.
A Dream Shared Thrift Store
501 Kentucky St., East Bakersfield
Smaller in size but big on heart, A Dream Shared empowers adults with disabilities through job training and retail experience. Expect low prices, friendly smiles, and an eclectic mix of clothing, toys, and household items that turn over quickly—so visit often.
Thrifting Tips for First-Timers
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Timing matters: Weekdays right after opening often yield the freshest donations.
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Inspect before you buy: Test zippers, check electronics, and scan for fabric flaws—most shops have a final-sale policy.
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Think outside the rack: Curtain panels become tablecloths, and an oversized blazer can be your next crop-top project.
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Give back: Thrifting is a circular economy—donate gently used items and keep the good karma flowing.
Make It a Bakersfield Day Trip
Many of these thrift shops cluster around downtown, where you’ll also find cafés, the historic Fox Theater, and the legendary Woolworth’s lunch counter—perfect for a post-shopping milkshake. Make a loop down 19th, 20th, and 21st Streets and you can hit half the list on foot.
When you’re done treasure hunting, swing by Jim Burke Lincoln on Oak Street. Our showroom is stocked with new Lincoln models and a curated selection of quality pre-owned vehicles—ideal for hauling home that reclaimed-wood credenza you just scored. Like Bakersfield’s best thrift shops, we believe in top-tier quality and hometown service.