King Richard’s Antique Center is more than worth a trip to charming Whittier, CA. For starters, the center holds the title of the largest antique and vintage center in all of California. But in addition to the rich tales behind the innumerable treasures you’ll find inside, the story of the location is just as intriguing.
The building itself is well over 100 years old. It was erected in 1903 as a citrus packing warehouse and later converted to its current state as King Richard’s Antique Center in 1979. From fruit pickers to antique pickers, this place is a feast for history buffs and casual tourists!
The showroom is the absolute star of King Richard’s Antique Center’s many amenities. With over 57 thousand square feet of floor space, there is something for everyone and then some! While that much square footage can sound intimidating, have no fear; there are many helpful curators and clerks available to help you if you’re looking to locate a specific item or even an era of antiques.
It’s also worth mentioning that there is something for every price point. Whether it’s costume or fine jewelry you seek, a silver tea set, a few LPs to add to your vinyl collection, or even a complete bedroom furniture set, chances are King Richard’s has it, and at a price, you’re looking for. Independent sellers curate many sections of the store, and if asked, you can often negotiate when buying a specialty item or multiple pieces.
There’s much more to King Richards than just the items for sale. You can also bring in your antiques and have them appraised by a professional. Who knows? Grandma’s vase might be worth a small fortune! They also have repair and restoration services for precious heirlooms that deserve to come out of your basement and be put on display.
Have you been watching the Antiques Road Show and want to try your hand at appraisal? You can even take a professional class on how to do just that. Besides the goods and courses offered at King Richard’s regularly, this Southern California gem hosts many events and festivities. Check out their online calendar for updates on photo shoots, contests, flea markets, wine tastings, and more.
It’s also worth noting that King Richard’s often serves as a location for film and television shoots. If you’re driving from far away, it’s worth a call to the facility to be sure they will be open to the public on your visit.
Are you worried about getting peckish on the drive home? Make one final stop into King Richard’s general store for vintage-style food and candies to go with your finds from the showroom floor! The center packs its jams and jellies, chocolates and caramels, and a variety of snacks for everyone at your party; they even have gluten-free treats.
King Richard’s Antique Center. Address: 12301 Whittier Blvd, Whittier, CA 90602.