Top LEGO Set Buying Spots in 2025

Over the past decade, LEGO's popularity and demand have soared, transforming from a children's building toy into a beloved hobby for teens and adults alike. The range of LEGO sets has expanded dramatically, not only in detail and utility but also in variety. Some sets are designed for interactive play, while others serve as intricate dioramas or valuable collectibles. Moreover, a growing segment includes lifestyle accessories like wall decorations, plants, and flowers, seamlessly blending into living spaces.

With hundreds of LEGO sets available, ranging in piece count, theme, and price, buyers might encounter 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 phases out even popular sets to introduce new ones. This practice has fueled a thriving resale market where prices can be inflated to two to three times the original cost.

LEGO sets are inherently expensive, and prices have been on an upward trend in recent years. Consider the 7541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon, which launched in 2017 at $800, already exceeding the typical 10 cents per piece rate. Today, this set's price has risen to $850.

To navigate these challenges, it's crucial to be a savvy consumer. Here are the best places to shop for 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 first stop for LEGO enthusiasts, offering the widest selection and easy sorting by theme, price, release date, and customer ratings. Their customer service is top-notch, and the LEGO Insiders program, free to join, provides numerous benefits. Members can purchase sets before public release, receive free sets as spending incentives, and access exclusive sets not available through third-party retailers.

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

Amazon

2See it at Amazon!

Amazon and the online stores of Target and Walmart are other excellent options. While they lack the point system and exclusivity of the LEGO Store, they frequently offer discounts. In contrast, the LEGO Store usually maintains full retail prices, except when clearing out inventory at the end of a set's lifecycle.

Target

1See it at Target!

Walmart

0See it at Walmart!

When deciding where to buy, consider whether you'd prefer a 10% discount at Target (which accepts LEGO Insider points but at a less favorable exchange rate) or full price at the LEGO Store with future discounts and exclusive sets.

Where to Buy Retired Sets Online

For retired sets, unofficial marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are your go-to sources. Be prepared for higher prices and engage directly with sellers to negotiate the best possible deal.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets in Stores

Physical stores offer another avenue for purchasing LEGO sets. While the selection might not be as vast as online, the personal touch and the ability to inspect sets before buying are significant advantages.

The in-person LEGO Store experience mirrors the online one, with the LEGO Insiders program and point system fully applicable. LEGO Stores also provide interactive fun with building and minifigure stations, where you can create your own custom LEGO figure.

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

One last note: For recently retired sets, brick-and-mortar stores can be a goldmine. Not all third-party retailers immediately remove retired sets from their shelves, so you might stumble upon a great find.

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 key times during the year when sales are more likely.

LEGO celebrates May 4 (Star Wars Day) with double Insider points on Star Wars sets and March 10 (Mario Day) with similar promotions in collaboration with Nintendo. Keep an eye on anniversaries related to third-party franchises for potential deals.

Box-stores often have clearance sales, especially at the beginning of the year when LEGO retires old sets and launches new ones, prompting retailers to refresh their inventory.

The holiday season, particularly Black Friday and Cyber Monday, offers deep discounts. Amazon Prime Days in July and October are also prime times for LEGO deals. Stay alert for any upcoming sales events to catch the best offers.