LEGO's enduring appeal has expanded beyond children, captivating teens and adults alike. The sets themselves have evolved, offering intricate details, diverse functionalities, and a wider range of styles. From playful builds to elaborate display pieces and even home décor, LEGO caters to a vast spectrum of interests.
Navigating the extensive LEGO catalog, however, presents challenges: locating desired sets and securing them at reasonable prices. The practice of LEGO retiring sets, even popular ones, contributes to a thriving resale market where prices often inflate to two or three times the original cost. Furthermore, LEGO's inherent cost has steadily increased over the years.
Strategic shopping can mitigate these issues. This guide outlines the best places to buy LEGO sets in 2025 and the optimal times to find deals.
Online LEGO Shopping Destinations
LEGO Insiders Program### LEGO.com
4See it at LEGO
Best Discounts### Amazon
2See it at Amazon
Accepts LEGO Insider Points### Target
1See it at Target
Exclusive Deals### Walmart
0See it at WalmartThe official LEGO online store boasts the most comprehensive selection, offering easy sorting by theme, price, release date, and customer ratings. Excellent customer service and the LEGO Insiders program, a free membership with numerous benefits, further enhance the shopping experience. These benefits include early access to sets, free sets as purchase incentives, and exclusive sets unavailable elsewhere.
The LEGO Insiders points system is particularly attractive. Every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, with 130 points equating to $1 (effectively a 5% rebate). Double points promotions further amplify the program's value.
Amazon, Target, and Walmart offer alternative online options. While lacking the points system and exclusive sets, they often provide modest discounts. The LEGO Store generally charges full price, except for occasional inventory clearances.
AnswerSee ResultsThe optimal choice depends on individual priorities. Weigh the benefits of a discount against the potential for future savings and exclusive sets.Locating Retired Sets
For retired sets, unofficial marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are the only options. Expect higher prices and be prepared to negotiate.
In-Store LEGO Shopping
Brick-and-mortar stores offer a hands-on experience. While selection may be more limited than online, the personal touch and ability to inspect sets before purchase are attractive to many.
The LEGO Store offers the same advantages as its online counterpart, including the Insiders program and interactive elements like building stations. Target and Walmart's LEGO sections provide alternatives, but a case-by-case comparison with the LEGO Store's inventory is recommended. Gamestop and Barnes & Noble occasionally stock LEGO sets, primarily gaming-themed and lifestyle sets, respectively.
Retired sets might unexpectedly appear in brick-and-mortar stores, although this is not guaranteed.
Optimal Times for LEGO Sales
Beyond standard box-store discounts, LEGO sets rarely see price reductions. However, specific times offer better chances of finding deals:
- May 4 (Star Wars Day) and March 10 (Mario Day): Double Insider points are often offered for relevant sets.
- Beginning of the Year: Clearance deals at box stores are more common due to inventory refreshes.
- Holiday Season (Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Days): Significant discounts are possible.
