Scotts Antiques in Atlanta: How Scott Antique Market Works, What to Expect, and How to Visit
If you’ve heard people in Atlanta talk about “Scott’s” or “Scotts Antiques”, they’re almost always referring to Scott Antique Market—one of the largest recurring antique shows in the country, held just south of downtown Atlanta.
Whether you live in the city, are visiting for the weekend, or you’re planning a special trip around antiques, here’s a clear guide to how Scott Antique Market in Atlanta works and how to make the most of it.
What Is “Scotts Antiques Atlanta”?
In Atlanta, “Scotts Antiques” = Scott Antique Market, a massive monthly antique and collectibles show that:
- Runs one long weekend a month (typically Thursday–Sunday)
- Is held at the Atlanta Expo Centers along I‑285 on Jonesboro Road
- Brings together thousands of dealers and an enormous range of items
It’s known locally as:
- A go‑to place for serious antique buyers
- A fun “treasure hunt” outing for weekend browsers
- A regular stop for interior designers, set decorators, and collectors
When people say they’re “going to Scott’s,” this is what they mean.
Location, Hours, and Basic Logistics
Where Scott Antique Market Is in Atlanta
Scott Antique Market is held at:
Atlanta Expo Center North and South
3650 & 3850 Jonesboro Road SE
Atlanta, GA 30354
This area is just inside the I‑285 perimeter on the south side of the city, near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the I‑75 / I‑285 interchange.
You can usually see the large expo buildings and parking areas right off the highway.
Typical Schedule and Admission
The Atlanta show generally runs:
- One weekend per month
- Thursday through Sunday
- During daytime hours
Patterns can vary by month, so most visitors double-check the exact dates and times before going.
Admission:
There is typically a small per-person admission fee that covers all days of the event. Parking is usually free in the large lots surrounding the expo centers.
Driving and Parking Tips
- From Intown Atlanta (Midtown, Downtown, Old Fourth Ward, etc.), expect about 15–25 minutes by car outside of rush hour.
- From Buckhead or Sandy Springs, budget 30–45 minutes, especially if you’re going during weekday morning traffic.
- Parking is usually on-site and plentiful, but:
- Arrive earlier in the day on Saturday to avoid hunting for a space.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll likely be walking between multiple buildings and outdoor areas.
Rideshare drop-off is typically straightforward; you can direct drivers to “Atlanta Expo Center North” or “Atlanta Expo Center South.”
What You’ll Find at Scott Antique Market
Scott Antique Market is known for the sheer range of antiques and vintage items. You’ll see both everyday pieces and museum‑quality items.
Common Categories of Items
You’re likely to find:
Antique furniture
Dining tables, sideboards, buffets, display cabinets, dressers, desks, beds, and more, from American, European, and Southern styles.Vintage and estate jewelry
Rings, brooches, chains, bracelets, and earrings, including gold, silver, and costume pieces.Art and decor
Oil paintings, watercolors, prints, maps, mirrors, frames, wall hangings, and Southern-themed artwork.Architectural salvage
Old doors, mantels, stained glass, hardware, ironwork, and reclaimed wood—popular with Atlanta homeowners renovating older homes.Rugs and textiles
Oriental rugs, kilims, quilts, linens, tablecloths, and older handmade textiles.Glassware and china
Crystal, Depression glass, ceramic dinnerware, tea sets, serving platters, and vintage barware.Collectibles and “smalls”
Vintage toys, postcards, advertising signs, coins, military items, Americana, and Atlanta or Georgia memorabilia.Mid-century and modern pieces
While it’s called an antique market, you’ll also see mid-century modern furniture, lighting, and decor, which are popular with intown Atlanta shoppers.
Who Shops at Scott’s?
You’ll see a mix of:
- Local homeowners from neighborhoods like Grant Park, Inman Park, Decatur, Buckhead, and Brookhaven looking for statement pieces.
- Designers and decorators working on homes in areas like Ansley Park, Morningside, and Virginia-Highland.
- Out-of-town buyers who plan a whole weekend around Scott’s.
- Vintage and resale shop owners from around Metro Atlanta.
If you’re just browsing, you won’t be out of place—many Atlantans go simply for inspiration or for a fun “antique field trip.”
North vs. South Buildings: How the Market Is Set Up
Scott Antique Market uses two main expo buildings plus outdoor vendor areas. The mix can vary, but many visitors find the layout something like this:
| Area | What You’ll Typically Find | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Center North | Higher-end antiques, fine furniture, art, estate jewelry | More formal, curated, designer‑friendly |
| Expo Center South | Larger mix of vendors, rustic pieces, collectibles, salvage | Laid-back, more “treasure hunt” style |
| Outdoor / Tent Areas | Garden items, architectural salvage, oversized pieces, bargains | Casual, great for browsing |
Most people plan to visit both North and South. There are shuttles or walkable paths between the buildings, depending on the setup and weather.
How to Plan Your Visit (Especially If You Live in Atlanta)
When Is the Best Day to Go?
Each day has a different character:
Thursday:
- Many dealers are fully set up.
- Good for serious buyers who want first pick.
- Less crowded than the weekend.
Friday:
- A balance of selection and manageable crowds.
- Popular with designers and out-of-town visitors.
Saturday:
- The busiest day with lots of energy.
- Great if you like a lively atmosphere and are not in a rush.
- Expect more traffic, especially from Metro Atlanta suburbs.
Sunday:
- Typically quieter, with some dealers offering more flexible pricing.
- Good for those finishing projects or looking for deals.
If you’re local and flexible, many Atlantans prefer Thursday or Friday mornings to avoid crowds and have more time to talk with dealers.
What to Bring
To make your trip smoother:
- Comfortable shoes – You’ll walk a lot on concrete floors.
- Measurements – Bring room dimensions, photos of your space, and specific measurements for furniture or rugs.
- Cash and cards – Many dealers accept cards, but some prefer cash. ATMs are usually available but can have fees.
- Reusable bag or small cart – Helpful for carrying smaller items.
- Phone with photos – Pictures of your home, current furniture, or inspiration images help you and dealers determine what will work.
- Notepad or notes app – To jot down vendor locations and items you’re considering.
Pricing, Negotiating, and Paying at Scott’s
What to Expect on Pricing
Prices at Scott Antique Market range widely:
- Investment pieces like rare furniture, fine art, or estate jewelry can be higher priced, reflecting age, quality, and condition.
- Everyday finds like small decor, vintage glassware, or collectibles can be surprisingly affordable—similar to or just above what you’d see in Atlanta vintage stores.
Since many dealers do this professionally, pricing is typically thoughtful rather than random, but there is often room for discussion.
Can You Negotiate?
Negotiation is common but should be respectful.
General guidelines:
It’s usually more comfortable to negotiate:
- After you’ve shown genuine interest
- If you’re buying multiple items from the same dealer
- Closer to Sunday if an item hasn’t sold
Helpful approaches:
- Ask: “Is your price firm?” rather than making a very low offer.
- If buying several pieces: “What would your best price be if I take all three?”
Dealers understand that bargaining is part of antique markets, but extremely low offers can come across poorly. Many Atlantans find a polite, conversational tone works best.
How You’ll Pay
Payment options differ by vendor, but you’ll often see:
- Credit/debit cards – Common for mid‑ to higher‑priced items.
- Cash – Still popular, especially for smaller purchases.
- Checks – Occasionally accepted by long‑time dealers.
Ask about sales tax and whether delivery can be included or arranged (more on that below).
Getting Large Items Home in Atlanta
Finding the perfect armoire or dining table is exciting—until you realize it doesn’t fit in your car. Scott Antique Market is used to this.
Delivery and Transport Options
Common options include:
On-site delivery services
There are often independent movers or delivery services present that specialize in same-day or next-day delivery within Metro Atlanta.
Many buyers with homes in areas like Decatur, Smyrna, or Brookhaven rely on these services.Vendor-arranged delivery
Some dealers coordinate delivery directly or can recommend a regular delivery partner.Renting a truck or van
Some Atlantans choose to rent a vehicle from nearby rental locations for large or multiple items, especially if they’re furnishing a new home.
When buying a big piece, ask:
- “Do you offer delivery within Atlanta?”
- “How much would delivery to [your neighborhood] cost?”
- “When could it be delivered?”
It’s helpful to have:
- Clear delivery address and any special notes (gates, stairs, condo loading docks).
- Contact phone number that you’ll answer.
New to Antiques? How to Shop Smart at Scott’s
If you’re not an experienced antiques buyer, Scott Antique Market can feel overwhelming. A few practical steps can help.
Before You Go
Define your goals
Are you looking for:- A specific piece (e.g., dining table, dresser, mirror)?
- A certain style (e.g., farmhouse, mid-century, French, Southern traditional)?
- Art or decor to fill walls and shelves?
Set a budget range
Have a realistic max spend in mind and a per-item range. It makes decisions easier when you’re surrounded by options.Know your space
Measure key areas:- Wall widths and heights
- Doorways and stairwells (for getting furniture inside)
- Existing furniture sizes for comparison
At the Market
When you find something you like, consider:
Condition
Look for cracks, repairs, missing hardware, re-glued joints, or structural issues.Authenticity and age
You can ask vendors how old the item is, whether it’s antique, vintage, or reproduction, and what they know about its background.Fit with your home
Think about how the item will work in:- Atlanta bungalows and cottages (smaller rooms, lower ceilings)
- Buckhead or Sandy Springs homes (larger formal spaces)
- Lofts or condos (elevators, narrow hallways, modern finishes)
Many dealers are happy to talk through these questions; this is part of the experience.
Food, Restrooms, and Breaks
Given the size of Scott Antique Market, you’ll probably spend several hours there.
Typical amenities include:
- Food vendors or concessions – Simple meals, snacks, and drinks, helpful if you’re spending the better part of a day.
- Restrooms – Located in the expo buildings.
- Seating areas – Spots to sit, review your notes, and plan where to browse next.
Some local shoppers bring a bottle of water and a light snack, especially if they’re visiting multiple buildings.
Is Scott Antique Market Kid-Friendly?
You’ll see some families attending, but:
- Kids need to be supervised, since there are many fragile and valuable items.
- Strollers can be used but might be tricky in tight booths or crowded aisles.
- Older children and teens who enjoy history, art, or design often find it interesting.
If you’re bringing younger kids, many Atlanta parents prefer quieter days and earlier hours, when aisles are less packed.
How Scott’s Fits with Other Atlanta Antique & Vintage Options
If you live in or near Atlanta and are exploring antiques generally, Scott’s is part of a broader antiques and vintage scene that includes:
- In-town antique and vintage stores in areas like:
- Virginia-Highland
- Inman Park
- West Midtown
- Poncey-Highland
- Antique malls and group shops around Metro Atlanta and nearby cities.
- Occasional estate sales and neighborhood sales, especially in older areas like Druid Hills or Decatur.
Compared with these:
- Scott Antique Market is:
- Larger and more concentrated—you see hundreds of vendors in one place.
- Best for focused shopping days, rather than quick drop‑ins.
- A place where dealers from multiple states converge, not just local shops.
Many Atlantans alternate between monthly trips to Scott’s and shorter visits to local shops for ongoing decorating and collecting.
Practical Checklist for Visiting “Scotts Antiques” in Atlanta
If you’re planning a trip, use this quick list:
- ✅ Check next Scott Antique Market Atlanta dates and hours.
- ✅ Note the location: Atlanta Expo Centers, Jonesboro Road SE, Atlanta 30354.
- ✅ Plan your day and time (Thursday/Friday for less crowd, Saturday for energy, Sunday for possible deals).
- ✅ Bring measurements, photos, and budget ranges.
- ✅ Wear comfortable shoes and plan to walk.
- ✅ Bring cash and cards; ask vendors what they accept.
- ✅ Ask about delivery options for large items.
- ✅ Take notes or photos so you can find vendors again if you need to think before buying.
If you live in Atlanta or visit often, Scott Antique Market can become a regular part of how you furnish and decorate—especially if you enjoy pieces with history, character, and a story behind them.
