Buying Antiques: A Guide to Visiting Scott Antique Market in Atlanta, USA

Introduction

Known affectionately by regulars as “Scott’s,” the Scott Antique Market is a four-day event occurring on the second weekend of each month at the Atlanta Expo Centers. This vast market hosts hundreds of vendors spread across two buildings and numerous parking lots, offering an array of items. Antiquarians can discover everything from custom mahogany furniture to vintage brooches. As a vintage enthusiast and Atlanta native, I spend countless days at Scott’s each year. Here are some of my top tips to help you get the most out of your shopping experience.

Pricing

Entry to the market costs $5 per person, and this ticket is valid for the entire duration of the show, allowing access to both the North and South Buildings. So, make sure to keep your ticket handy. You never know when you might want to return to a dealer.

Where Should I Visit?

Scott’s is situated on Jonesboro Road and features two main buildings for browsing: the North and South buildings. To move between them, you can either drive or use the complimentary shuttle service. The North building typically showcases higher-end antiques, home decor, fine jewelry, and accessories. Here, you can find sterling silver dealers, jade jewelry designers, and Hermes scarves, as well as grand French commodes and sturdy armoires. A favorite vendor in the North building is The Big Chandelier, renowned for its remarkable antique lighting restoration. On the other hand, the South building offers a more approachable selection of vintage and antique items. You can still discover beautiful antiques and jewelry, but this section of the Expo Center is particularly famous for its extensive collection of colorful rugs, a variety of original artwork from local, regional, and national artists, and plenty of tables for treasure hunting. One popular vendor in the South building is Le Chateau, a company specializing in French-imported and European-inspired furniture.

Optimal Shopping Times

Those who frequent Scott’s will tell you the best days to go are Thursdays and Sundays, opening and closing days respectively. On Thursdays, vendors are finished setting up and are eager to show you their latest finds. Designers and decorators often arrive on Thursdays to scour the best pieces before the crowds. By Sundays, vendors are ready to make deals in order to empty their booths before packing them up. Waiting until Sunday to make selections is a risk, but sometimes saving money is well worth the reward. Due to Scott’s location south of the city, you’re likely to experience some traffic heading back into town. Make sure you plan to leave before rush hour begins or put on your patient pants for the drive home.

Payment Recommendations

As the saying goes, cash is king. Although most vendors accept cards, cash offers often secure better deals. There are ATMs available if you need to replenish your wallet. After a morning of shopping, you’ll probably need a bite to eat. You can choose from a variety of food vendors in both buildings, offering chicken salad sandwiches, BBQ, hotdogs, or even salads. Cash is the preferred payment method for these transactions as well.

Dress Recommendations

You’ll likely be carrying items around the Expo Centers during your visit to Scott’s, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes and bring a practical bag. A cross-body bag will keep your hands free for browsing, while a tote bag is perfect for your purchases. Since many vendors don't provide packing materials, a tote can also double as a convenient way to transport your finds throughout the buildings.