LEGO's enduring appeal has expanded beyond childhood, captivating teens and adults alike. The complexity, functionality, and variety of LEGO sets have also dramatically increased. Sets now range from playful builds to intricate display pieces and even home décor items.
However, the sheer volume of sets available presents challenges: finding the desired set and securing a fair price. The practice of LEGO retiring sets, even popular ones, contributes to a robust resale market with inflated prices (often 2-3 times the original cost). Furthermore, LEGO's inherent cost has steadily risen.
Strategic shopping can mitigate these issues. Here's a guide to the best places and times to buy LEGO sets in 2025:
Online LEGO Shopping Destinations
LEGO Insiders Program### LEGO Store
4See it at LEGOThe Best Discounts### Amazon
2See it at AmazonAccepts LEGO Insider Points### Target
1See it at TargetExclusive Deals### Walmart
0See it at Walmart
The official LEGO Store boasts the largest selection, easily searchable by theme, price, release date, and rating. Their responsive customer service and LEGO Insiders program (offering perks like early access, free sets, and exclusive items) are significant advantages. The points system (6.5 points per dollar spent, 130 points = $1) provides a 5% return redeemable on future purchases, often doubled during specific promotions.
Amazon, Target, and Walmart offer alternative online options, providing modest discounts but lacking the points system and exclusive sets. The LEGO Store generally charges full price except for occasional inventory clearances.
AnswerSee ResultsThe optimal choice depends on individual priorities: a discount versus points and exclusive items.
Finding Retired Sets
Unofficial marketplaces (Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, etc.) are the only source for retired sets, but expect significantly higher prices. Direct communication with sellers, negotiation, and comparison shopping are crucial.
In-Store LEGO Shopping
While in-store selection might be smaller than online, the personal experience and ability to inspect sets before purchase are attractive to many. The LEGO Store offers the same Insiders program benefits and interactive features (building stations, minifigure customization). Target and Walmart also stock LEGO, and Gamestop and Barnes & Noble offer niche selections. Discounts are less frequent in smaller stores, but it's worth checking. Brick-and-mortar stores may unexpectedly have recently retired sets still in stock.
Best Times for LEGO Sales
Beyond standard box-store discounts, LEGO sales are infrequent. However, key dates to watch for include:
- May 4th (Star Wars Day): Double Insider points on Star Wars sets.
- March 10th (Mario Day): Similar deals in partnership with Nintendo.
- Year-Beginnings: Clearance sales at box stores as they refresh inventory.
- Holiday Season (Black Friday, Cyber Monday): Significant discounts.
- Amazon Prime Days (July & October): Potential for LEGO deals.