Deals Worth the Drive

We all know antiques stores can be cluttered mazes of hidden treasures. Narrow pathways cut through shelves and cases full of, well, junk. The excitement in shopping this way, though, lies in finding the hidden jewels amid the sets of porcelain puppies or beneath tattered quilts. Sometimes that same thrill is in the hunt just to find that perfect antiques store. We had fun winding down rural Alabama back roads to discover a few of our favorites in Pell City and Brundidge. We have a feeling you will too.

Take Your Time at Tims
David Tims got into the antiques business in 1967 after selling a couple of brass beds from the pickup truck he parked in front of his service station. Almost 40 years later, David fills three warehouse-size showrooms in Pell City with antiques, reproduction furniture, imported lamps, stained glass, porcelain, Remington bronzes, and other pieces from all over the world. You'll have to get used to shopping here, though, because there are no price tags. When you find something you like, an assistant writes down its code and walks to David's office in the back. Almost ceremoniously, David will ease up front and offer a price. "I tried pricing, but nobody ever wanted to pay that price," he says. "They always like to haggle. Of course, they figure out I like to haggle too."

All three of his locations are within 2 miles of each other, but the back roads might get a little confusing. Our recommendation: Visit David's main store, the old general store, first (see directions below), and they'll get you to the other two.