I was on the island for a visit and in the mood for some thrifting and antiquing. This place has both! Give yourself a couple hours to dig and wander, and DO NOT skip out on the upstairs room where they keep the collectibles (you have to ask to be taken up there). On top of the fun I had and the cool things I found, the money couldn't be going to a better cause. Not only are they keeping things out of the nearby landfill, but they are also using the profits to give back to the community through things like scholarships for local youth. 🫶
Great place to check with before buying something new. Reuse - repurpose - reduce waste. Also great place to look around for building ideas. The Exchange provides great service to our community!
Cool Ol old Shack shed Of the exchange , was the place to go for the deals When I was there in the big build out of the island in 1997.
Alot has changed since then.coo place
One of the best thrift stores I've been to in a long time. Easy to find (if you're visiting the island it's worth stopping at, especially if the traffic into town is awful). Right at the outskirts and easy to get to. Very clean inside with a lot of things to look at. Prices were very reasonable for the most part and the staff inside were all exceptionally friendly. Parking was easy.
I made an appointment over a month ago. Had my clothes clean, folded, in recyclable containers. I made sure everything was new or gently worn. I read the rules and regulations on what The Exchange will and will not accept and I was excited to finally take my items for donation.
Here's the thing. Be prepared for each bag of your clean and folded sheets, towels, clothes, etc. to be dumped and personally inspected by what I can only describe as a rude, condescending woman. After the first bag, I decided I'd rather keep these things in my car until the next time I go off island than donate than be judged and treated harshly at the Orcas Island Exchange.
Every town in America could have a jewel like The Exchange on Orcas Island! It makes sense and it’s good for the land AND the people.... plus it’s a great place to shop!
AMAZING place for thrifty shopping fun! Not just donated thrift shop items but ALSO cool industrial and household parts and peices! Everything is suggested donation price and they are willing to negotiate on price. Great prices and the lady helping me with the jewelry was very kind and enjoyable. Wish this place was over by where I live!
So glad someone told me about this place. We drove 5 hours to camp at Moran State Park only to find out we forgot our toddler carry hiking backpack! We were pointed in the direction of the exchange and had about 5 to choose from! The staff was nothing but helpful and charming. It’s a pay what you can type of place which really helped us out. We will be back! :)
Love the vibes, the staff, the stuff and the adventure of finding things you are looking for, and finding things you didn't know you wanted or needed! Just lovely! And the price is always right!
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