Over the past decade, LEGO's popularity and demand have skyrocketed. What was once a building toy primarily for children has now captivated teens and adults alike. The range of LEGO sets has grown to encompass not only intricate, detailed builds but also a variety of themes, from play-focused to display-worthy dioramas and even lifestyle accessories like wall decorations, plants, and flowers that seamlessly blend into home decor.
With hundreds of LEGO sets available, buyers might face two main challenges: finding the specific set they want and securing it at a reasonable price. A significant issue is that LEGO retires all its sets, even the popular ones, to make way for new releases. This practice has fueled a thriving resell market, where retired sets can be marked up to 2-3 times their original price.
Additionally, LEGO sets are inherently expensive and have been trending upwards in price over the years. A prime example is the 7541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon set, which launched in 2017 at $800—a price well above the typical '10 cents per piece' rate—and now costs $850.
To navigate these challenges, it's crucial to be a smart and meticulous consumer. Here are the best places to shop for LEGO sets in 2025 and the optimal times to snag deals:
4See it at LEGO!
The official LEGO Store is the prime destination for LEGO enthusiasts, offering the widest selection of sets, easily sorted by theme, price, release date, and customer ratings. The LEGO Insiders program, which is free to join, provides numerous benefits, including early access to new sets, free sets as spending incentives, and exclusive sets not available from third-party retailers. The point system is a standout feature, where every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, and 130 points equate to $1, effectively giving you a 5% return on your investment. Plus, there are times during the year when you can earn double points, further enhancing the program's value.
2See it at Amazon!
Amazon, along with the online stores of Target and Walmart, provides a solid alternative. While they lack the LEGO Store's exclusivity and point system, they often offer modest discounts on most sets. It's a matter of comparing the savings against the benefits offered by the LEGO Store.
1See it at Target!
Target accepts LEGO Insider points, though at a less favorable rate, which might affect your decision depending on the discount offered on the set.
0See it at Walmart!
For retired sets, unofficial online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are your go-to sources. Be prepared for higher prices, but don't hesitate to negotiate with sellers and shop around for the best deals.
Visiting brick-and-mortar stores can be a great alternative, especially for those who value personalized service and the tactile experience of handling sets before purchase. The in-person LEGO Store offers the same benefits as its online counterpart, including the LEGO Insiders program and interactive attractions like building and minifigure stations.
Target and Walmart have dedicated LEGO sections, and their offerings should be compared with the LEGO Store's inventory on a case-by-case basis. Gamestop and Barnes & Noble also carry LEGO sets, with the latter focusing on lifestyle, smaller impulse purchase sets, and Harry Potter themes, aligning with the franchise's status as one of the best-selling book series.
One last note: For recently retired sets, physical stores might still have stock, as third-party retailers don't always immediately comply with LEGO's retirement schedule.
LEGO sets rarely go on sale due to high demand, but there are strategic times to look for deals. LEGO celebrates specific dates like May 4th (Star Wars Day) and March 10th (Mario Day) with promotions such as double Insider points for relevant sets. Keep an eye on clearance sales at box-stores, particularly at the beginning of the year when LEGO retires old sets and introduces new ones.
The holiday season, especially Black Friday and Cyber Monday, along with Amazon Prime Days in July and October, are prime times for deep discounts on LEGO sets. Staying informed about upcoming sales events can help you find the best LEGO deals.
By understanding where and when to buy, LEGO enthusiasts can maximize their savings and enjoy the expansive world of LEGO sets, whether for play, display, or as stylish home accents.