Top LEGO Set Purchase Spots for 2025

Over the past decade, the popularity of LEGO has surged, transforming from a simple children's building toy into a beloved hobby for teens and adults. LEGO sets have evolved significantly, offering not just play-focused designs but also intricate display pieces, collectibles, and lifestyle accessories such as wall decorations, plants, and flowers that seamlessly blend into home decor.

With hundreds of LEGO sets available, varying in piece count, theme, and price, potential buyers often face two main challenges: locating the desired set and finding it at a reasonable price. A significant hurdle is that LEGO routinely retires sets, even popular ones, to make way for new releases. This practice has fueled a thriving resell market where sets can be sold for two to three times their original price.

Moreover, LEGO sets are inherently expensive, with prices steadily increasing over the years. For instance, the 7,541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon set, which debuted in 2017 at $800, now retails for $850. This price far exceeds the usual '10 cents per piece' benchmark for LEGO sets.

To navigate these challenges, being a smart and meticulous consumer is crucial. Here are the best places to shop for LEGO sets in 2025, along with optimal times to snag deals.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets Online

LEGO Store

4See it at LEGO Amazon

2See it at Amazon Target

1See it at Target Walmart

0See it at Walmart

The official LEGO Store is the prime destination for purchasing LEGO sets online. It boasts the most extensive selection, easily sortable by theme, price, release date, and customer ratings. The store also offers responsive customer service and the LEGO Insiders program, which is free to join and comes with numerous benefits.

Members can buy sets before their general public release, receive free sets as spending incentives, and access exclusive sets not available through third-party retailers. The most attractive feature of the LEGO Store is its point system: every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, with 130 points equating to $1, effectively giving a 5% return on purchases. Additionally, there are times during the year when you can earn double points, enhancing the program's value.

For alternative online shopping, Amazon, Target, and Walmart are excellent options. While they lack the exclusivity and point system of the LEGO Store, they frequently offer modest discounts on sets. In contrast, the LEGO Store usually maintains full retail prices, except during specific inventory clearance periods.

When choosing where to buy, it's essential to calculate the value. For instance, would you prefer a 10% discount at Target.com (which does accept LEGO Insider points, albeit at a less favorable exchange rate)? Or would you rather pay full price at the LEGO Store for future discounts and exclusive free sets?

Where to Buy Retired Sets Online

For those seeking retired sets, unofficial online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are the go-to sources. Be prepared for higher prices and take the time to contact sellers directly, negotiate, and compare prices to secure the best deal possible.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets in Stores

Physical stores provide another avenue for LEGO purchases. While the variety may not match online offerings, many prefer the hands-on experience and personalized service. The in-store LEGO Store mirrors its online counterpart, with the LEGO Insiders program and point system applicable to both. These stores also offer interactive experiences, such as LEGO building and minifigure customization stations.

Target and Walmart feature dedicated LEGO sections, and their inventory should be compared with the LEGO Store's offerings on a case-by-case basis. GameStop occasionally stocks gaming-themed LEGO sets, while Barnes & Noble offers lifestyle sets, smaller impulse buys, and Harry Potter-themed sets. While discounts in smaller outlets are rare, it's always worth checking.

One last note: For recently retired sets, brick-and-mortar stores can be a goldmine. Sometimes, third-party retailers may still have stock long after official retirement, so it's worth exploring in-person options for those elusive sets.

When Do LEGO Sets Go on Sale?

LEGO sets rarely receive discounts due to high demand, but there are strategic times to look for sales. LEGO celebrates Star Wars Day on May 4th by offering double Insider points on Star Wars sets, and Mario Day on March 10th with similar deals in partnership with Nintendo. Keep an eye on anniversaries related to third-party franchises for potential promotions.

Box stores often have clearance sales, especially at the beginning of the year when LEGO retires old sets and launches new ones. The holiday season, particularly Black Friday and Cyber Monday, along with Amazon Prime Days in July and October, are prime times for significant discounts. Stay alert for any upcoming sales events to maximize your LEGO shopping experience.