Want to indulge in nostalgia? Check out these shops on Highway 72

Reading time: 4 minutes

Highway 72
2nd & Charles’ secondhand inventory is a nostalgic sight to behold. (Cooper Smitherman / Hville Blast)

As a lifelong resident of Huntsville, I’ve always enjoyed visiting the places in our city that share snapshots of the past.

For me, spending a day on Highway 72 always meant there was potential for finding new trinkets that already held so many stories.

If you’re like me and enjoy embracing nostalgia as a pastime, I highly recommend checking out these three shops on Highway 72:

2nd & Charles

Highway 72
2nd & Charles thrives on its trade-in system where old books, CDs and more can go to new homes. (Cooper Smitherman / Hville Blast)

2nd & Charles is one of our favorite bookstores in the area for its diverse selection. Not only does it carry used books in great condition, but it also stocks used and new vinyl records, house decor, board games, video games, fun clothing options and more.

Highway 72
2nd & Charles’ used inventory supplements a wide array of recent releases. (Cooper Smitherman / Hville Blast)

2nd & Charles is also known for its Penny-A-Page sale, which happens fairly frequently. During this sale, the price of a used book drops to equal the number of pages in the book.

I’ve saved so much money on used books from this deal and cannot recommend it enough for local bookworms.

Gamer’s Paradise

Highway 72
Gamer’s Paradise is a local favorite for many gamers and pop culture fanatics. (Christian Stanfield / Hville Blast)

Gamer’s Paradise is one of our city’s most beloved nerdy destinations.

It carries a wide selection of vintage games and systems, as well as recent releases. You can also improve your setup with the store’s various collectibles, which include figurines and posters.

Whenever I’ve needed recommendations to try something new, the employees have always been incredibly helpful. They even led me to several of my current favorites.

Despite its primary selection of secondhand games, every game and collectible I’ve bought over the years has come in excellent condition.

If you’re in need of a quality retro gaming experience, I highly recommend stopping by Gamer’s Paradise any time you’re out on Highway 72.

Vintage 72

Highway 72
Vintage 72 has antiques and collectibles for every nostalgic shopper. (Cooper Smitherman / Hville Blast)

Vintage 72 is another highlight on Highway 72 that I believe every nostalgic shopper should check out. The store is well-stocked with unique antiques and lovely products supplied by various local vendors.

Highway 72
Vintage 72’s antiques are some of my favorites to browse in the Huntsville area. (Cooper Smitherman / Hville Blast)

The store’s homely atmosphere provides a relaxed antiquing experience second to none. Whether you need new furniture, holiday decoration pieces or a fun gift for a loved one, Vintage 72 may have just what you need.

Highway 72
Vintage 72’s new music section offers an excellent selection of timeless classic rock records. (Cooper Smitherman / Hville Blast)

Recently, the store also added a new music section that, in my opinion, rivals some of the best record shops in the city.

  • Where: 7186 Hwy 72 W, Madison, AL 35758
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10AM-6PM; Sunday, 1-5PM
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Whether you want to indulge in nostalgia, get ahead on some holiday shopping or have a few extra hours to browse for fun, make sure to add these shops to your list!

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Cooper Smitherman
Cooper Smitherman
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