St Alban's Opportunity Shop Washington DC
NW thrift store
Tucked away under the parish house of St Alban's church, at the gateway to the National Cathedral, is a wee shop that sometimes affords big surprises. Since 1955, when the residents of this tiny neighborhood of NW clean out their closets, this is where the donation pile lands. The racks are dense with clothing, shelves lined with bric-a-brac, but perseverance can pay off big. You might score a full-length fur, a set of Waterford champagne flutes, an only slightly moth-nibbled Burberry scarf, or a past-season pair of Louboutins.
The display cases hold the more valuable items and a raft of costume jewelry the likes of which I haven't seen since playing dress-up in my grandmother's closet. If, sadly, you find nothing on your wish list, there's no need to leave empty-handed, for there are shelves of lightly used books which sell for $3 a hardcover, 75 cents a paperback. I'm filling all my bookshelves, Agatha Christie by Mark Twain and Harper Lee. Look for seasonal sales, where everything is half off. You can feel good about shopping here, too, for not only are you sustainably upcycling, but the proceeds (over $300,000 last year) go to charity.
About this spot
Find your way with 101 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Washington DC
The Phillips Collection
Modern and contemporary
"The Phillips Collection" in Washington DC praises itself as America’s first museum of modern art, which encompasses art from the 1800s to today.
by
Katya
Barannik
Timber Pizza
The best pizza in D.C.
This is the best pizza place in Washington D.C. You don’t have to take just my word for it: Bon Appetit named Timber Best Pizzeria 2017...
by
Katya
Barannik
Hillwood Estate
Art collector’s museum
"Hillwood Estate" in Washington D.C. is one of the best art collector's museums I have been to - I even love the gardens and greenhouses...
by
Katya
Barannik
AU Museum
Art from around the world
"The AU Museum" at the Katzen Arts Center in Washington DC is the region’s largest university facility for exhibiting art - it has a unique philosophy...
by
Katya
Barannik
Spanish Steps
Lovely secluded spot
The "Spanish Steps" in Kalorama, Washington DC, are surrounded by trees and the sound of falling water. A lovely, secluded spot to catch up with a friend!
by
Katya
Barannik
Mitchell Park
Green space for hanging out
"Mitchell Park" is a much-welcomed green space within the Kalorama neighborhood in Washington DC. It's the perfect spot to bring a book and read for hours!
by
Katya
Barannik
Woodrow Wilson House
Home of the 28th President
"Woodrow Wilson House" in Washington D.C. is the only presidential museum in the city. It's made for history buffs, like me!
by
Katya
Barannik
Un je ne sais Quoi
French pastries
"Un je ne sais Quoi" in Washington DC is my go-to place for a sweet fix with a French twist - it's the most authentic French bakery in the city!
by
Katya
Barannik
Hains Point
Perfect day by the water
"Hains Point" in Washington DC is the perfect place to spend a sunny weekend afternoon. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day by the water with beautiful views!
by
Katya
Barannik
Oak Hill Cemetery
Peaceful retreat
I come to "Oak Hill Cemetery" in Washington DC whenever I am walking through Georgetown on a slow afternoon and have some time for myself...
by
Katya
Barannik
Roosevelt Island
Outdoor monument to a president
"Roosevelt Island" in Washington DC is an 88-acre natural reserve area. How fitting it's dedicated to Teddy Roosevelt, a big nature conservation advocate.
by
Katya
Barannik
The REACH
A living theater
Described as a living theater, "The REACH" in Washington D.C. is a performance hall, education center, and rehearsal space rolled into one...
by
Katya
Barannik
Heading to Washington DC?
101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Washington DC?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 101 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Shopping
Our team loves Washington DC
Get to know our other Spotters from Washington DC
As featured on:
