Top Spots for LEGO Purchases in 2025

Over the past decade, LEGO's popularity has skyrocketed, transforming from a children's building toy into a beloved pastime for teens and adults alike. The range and complexity of LEGO sets have also evolved, offering products designed for play, display as detailed dioramas or collectibles, and even lifestyle accessories like wall decorations, plants, and flowers that enhance living spaces.

With hundreds of LEGO sets available across various themes, piece counts, and price points, potential buyers often face two main challenges: locating the desired set and finding it at a reasonable price. A common issue is that many sets become "retired," as LEGO regularly phases out even its popular models to introduce new ones. This practice fuels a thriving resale market where prices can be inflated by 2-3 times the original cost.

LEGO sets are inherently expensive, and prices have been on the rise. For instance, the 7,541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon, launched in 2017 for $800, now retails at $850. To navigate these challenges, consumers need to be savvy and strategic in their shopping approach. Here's a guide to the best places to buy LEGO sets in 2025 and the optimal times to snag deals.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets Online

LEGO Store

4See it at LEGO

The official LEGO Store is the go-to destination for the widest selection of sets, easily sortable by theme, price, release date, and customer rating. The store boasts responsive customer service and the LEGO Insiders program, which is free to join and offers numerous benefits. Members can purchase sets before they're available to the public, receive free sets as spending incentives, and access exclusive sets not available through third-party retailers.

The LEGO Store's point system is particularly appealing: every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, and 130 points equate to $1, effectively giving you a 5% return on your purchases. Additionally, there are times during the year when you can earn double points, enhancing the program's value.

Amazon

2See it at Amazon

Amazon, along with the online stores of Target and Walmart, are excellent alternatives. While they lack the exclusivity and point system of the LEGO Store, they often offer modest discounts on most sets. In contrast, the LEGO Store typically maintains full retail prices, except during specific promotions aimed at clearing out inventory.

Target

1See it at Target

Target accepts LEGO Insider points, though the exchange rate may not be as favorable, making it essential to compare the value against the LEGO Store's offerings.

Walmart

0See it at Walmart

When deciding where to shop, consider whether you'd prefer a 10% discount at Target.com or the full retail price at the LEGO Store, which offers future discounts and exclusive small sets as rewards.

Where to Buy Retired Sets Online

For those seeking retired sets, unofficial online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are your only options. Be prepared for higher prices and be sure to contact sellers, negotiate, and compare prices to secure the best deal.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets in Stores

Physical stores offer a tangible shopping experience, though the variety may not match online selections. The in-person LEGO Store is ideal for the same reasons as its online counterpart, including the LEGO Insiders program and interactive features like building and minifigure stations.

Target and Walmart have dedicated LEGO sections, while GameStop and Barnes & Noble also carry LEGO sets, including gaming-themed and Harry Potter sets, respectively. Although discounts are rare in smaller outlets, it's worth checking for deals.

If you're after recently retired sets, physical stores are your best bet. Sometimes, third-party retailers may still have stock long after the official retirement date.

When Do LEGO Sets Go on Sale?

LEGO sets seldom go on sale due to high demand, with the company preferring to retire sets rather than discount them. However, there are specific times to watch for sales:

• Star Wars Day (May 4) often features double Insider points for Star Wars sets.
• Mario Day (March 10) offers similar deals in partnership with Nintendo.
• Clearance deals at box-stores are more common at the beginning of the year when LEGO retires old sets and launches new ones.
• Holiday season, particularly Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Days in July and October, are prime times for deep discounts.

By understanding these shopping strategies and timing your purchases, you can enjoy the world of LEGO without breaking the bank.