Iowa's 'Antique City' With A Quaint Downtown Is Sandwiched Between Omaha And Des Moines

There is a thrill that comes with shopping for antiques. You never know what you might come across, and if you're lucky, you'll score them for a steal. The Midwest is home to some fantastic destinations where you can experience this rush. One such place is Walnut, dubbed the "Antique City" of Iowa for its various shops in its quaint downtown. "The amount AND variety of treasures in this town! Wow! Just wow!" states a review from Google. Those in Omaha or Des Moines are in luck. Walnut is located off Interstate 80 and is sandwiched between these two cities — Omaha is a 45-minute drive away, while Des Moines is about an hour and 15 minutes away.

Walnut has a long legacy of selling antiques and earned its moniker back in the 1980s. Today, visitors will find shops selling relics from a bygone era clustered along and around downtown's aptly named Antique City Drive. This thoroughfare features brick streets and timeworn structures of varying heights with old-fashioned storefronts and distinct period details. In fact, the city of Walnut's website states that many date back to the late 1800s (Walnut, for reference, was founded in 1871). 

If you're a vintage enthusiast, here are some suggestions for your Walnut adventure. You can start at the Granary Mall, which has two floors. "We have been in hundreds of antique shops and have never come across items like they have in this mall. I felt like I was in a museum," wrote an individual on Google. Others say that the bright blue and white building (one of the oldest in downtown) is well organized, though some note that prices can be high. 

You can continue treasure hunting in Iowa's "Antique City" at Walnut Antique Mall, located across from Granary Mall. Retro bicycles and signs are displayed on the sidewalk, enticing eager shoppers. If you're looking for vintage furniture, consider making a stop at this shop. Mabel's Old Fashioned Rose is stocked with antique housewares, as well as bottles of locally made wine (look for the storefront with the heart-shaped sign on Antique City Drive). For brooches, compacts, and other items, there's Corn Country Antiques. "There's also a very impressive collection of uranium glass," reads a review from Google.

However, specialty stores like Second Impressions Comics and Analog are also nestled among downtown Walnut's charming brick buildings. While the former offers Funko Pops and other collectibles, the latter sells vintage stereos and gaming consoles that evoke childhood nostalgia.

When you inevitably become hungry, you can enjoy a meal at Silver Lining Diner, which serves burgers and milkshakes. Its checkered floor and red booths add to the old-school atmosphere. Need caffeine to carry on shopping? Although Walnut does not have a Starbucks, it is home to Frosting, Inc., a bakery with a rustic and romantic aesthetic. Here, you can grab coffee, cookies, and cupcakes. Walnut's dining options are limited, but there are additional eateries in nearby Avoca and Atlantic, a Midwest city with fun shops, quiet trails, and family-friendly outings.

Thinking about exploring the "Antique City" of Iowa? On Tripadvisor, a couple of reviewers suggest visiting Walnut on the weekend, writing that there's a better chance the downtown shops will be open. Nevertheless, if there's a store you're interested in, it'd be best to call the business beforehand, as its listed hours may not necessarily be accurate. Plus, make sure to give yourself enough time to shop. "Several stores don't show up on maps tho[ugh], so be aware there are more stores in the town than you think, " explains a review from Google.

Consider timing your visit around one of the city's annual events, like the Walnut Antique Show. Each June (more specifically, Father's Day weekend), Walnut's streets are overtaken by vendors selling everything from vintage cameras to luggage. The three-day Walnut Antique Show is free and typically features live music and food. If you miss out on this summer festivity, the Walnut Antique Fall Festival is held in October and provides a similar experience. For upcoming dates and other information, head to the city of Walnut's website.

If you're planning to stick around the weekend for these happenings, the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Walnut is the only hotel in the city. It offers affordable nightly rates, with a Tripadvisor user writing, "Rooms were basic but clean, functional, and comfortable."  Are you a lover of all things vintage? The best Midwest destinations to shop for antiques await, though you might also like reading about Kalona, an underrated Midwest city with old-school German charm and antique shops.