Finding nostalgic treasures: Last-minute gifts at Midland’s antique shops

With Christmas just around the corner, those last-minute gift needs can send many of us sprinting toward packed retail stores or clicking frantically through online listings. This year, why not slow down and visit one of Midland’s antique shops?

Misty BarronShannon Zariski finds a glass shoe she's been searching for while antiquing.When you walk into an antique shop, you’re not just shopping but embarking on a small treasure hunt. Every shelf is a possibility, every display case a time capsule. The element of discovery can transform the stress of holiday shopping into a more rewarding and even enjoyable experience.

“We like the smaller stores,” says antique enthusiast Shannon Zariski. “It’s a calm, quiet activity.”

Zariski and her husband, Robert, often take trips on the weekend to peruse local shops for new finds. They enjoy the peace and authenticity that chain stores or online giants can’t quite replicate.

There is no shortage of shops to discover in Midland. Not only do we hold one of the largest antique festivals in the area, but also have many vintage stores that call Midland County home.

Misty BarronInternally Comatose inside Sanford Antique Mall offers unique gifts for those with an eclectic taste.Finding nostalgia and oddities at the Sanford Antique Mall

The Sanford Antique Mall, at 3102 N Meridian Road, is a wealth of antique and nostalgic items. Here you’ll find toys to spark memories from childhood, vintage furniture, and primitives from various vendors. Each area has its own personality, giving you plenty of options to explore.

Not only does the mall specialize in antiques and collectibles, but features the peculiar creations of Internally Comatose. If someone on your gift list prefers the unusual or macabre, this section  stands out from standard holiday fare. 

Misty BarronThe Midland Antique Center offers treasures from 50 vendors.A timeless journey at Midland Antique Center

The Midland Antique Center, located just outside of town at 3411 Isabella Rd, offers 11,000 square feet of space. As you step inside, you'll be transported through time. Wander among more than 50 booths filled with timeless creations to relive memories and make some new ones for the holiday season. 

The center also features an extensive license plate collection by Adam H. Kolb, showcasing plates from all 50 U.S. states, Germany, and Canada, spanning 1910 to 2000. The collection includes rare porcelain and steel plates for cars, boats, motorcycles, politically affiliated vehicles, and more.


Fantastic Finds is located in the heart of Midland Mall for easy shopping.Don’t miss Fantastic Finds at Midland Mall
If you’re already at the Midland Mall hunting for an ideal present, make sure to stop by Fantastic Finds. Their spacious store is a treasure trove of vintage antiques and rare items. Many sales associates are on hand and eager to help guide you through finding a one-of-a-kind gift. 

This holiday season, embrace the charm of antiquing for your last-minute shopping. You might just find that the perfect gift isn't the newest gadget on the shelf, but a timeless piece waiting to be rediscovered.