Top Spots for LEGO Purchases in 2025

Over the past decade, the popularity and demand for LEGO have skyrocketed. What was once considered a simple building toy for children has now expanded to captivate teens and adults alike. LEGO sets have evolved, offering greater detail, functionality, and variety to cater to a diverse audience. Some sets are designed for interactive play, while others are crafted for display as intricate dioramas or high-value collectibles. Additionally, a growing segment of LEGO products serves as lifestyle accessories, such as wall decorations, plants, and flowers, seamlessly blending into home environments.

With hundreds of LEGO sets available for purchase, ranging in piece counts, themes, and prices, potential buyers often face two significant challenges: finding the desired set and securing it at a reasonable price. A common issue is that many sets are "retired" by LEGO, even popular ones, to make way for new releases. This practice has fueled a thriving resale market where sets can be sold for two to three times their original price. Moreover, LEGO sets are inherently expensive, with prices increasing over the years. For instance, the massive 7,541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon, launched in 2017 for $800, now retails at $850, significantly above the typical 10 cents per piece rate.

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

Where to Buy LEGO Sets Online

LEGO Store

The official LEGO Store is the first and most obvious choice for purchasing LEGO sets online. It boasts the widest selection, easily sortable by theme, price, release date, and customer rating. LEGO's customer service is highly responsive, and the LEGO Insiders program, which is free to join, offers numerous benefits. Members can purchase sets before they are available to the general public, receive free sets as spending incentives, and access sets exclusive to the LEGO Store.

One of the most attractive features of shopping at the LEGO Store is its point system. Every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, with 130 points equating to $1, effectively giving you a 5% return on your spending. Additionally, there are periods throughout the year where you can earn double points, enhancing the value of the program.

For other online options, consider Amazon, Target, and Walmart. While these retailers do not offer the LEGO Store's point system or exclusive sets, they frequently provide modest discounts on most LEGO sets. The LEGO Store typically maintains full retail prices, except during specific promotions aimed at clearing out inventory as a set nears retirement.

Where to Buy Retired Sets Online

For those seeking retired sets, unofficial online 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. It's crucial to shop around to ensure you're getting the best price available.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets in Stores

For those who prefer shopping in person, brick-and-mortar stores offer a tangible shopping experience. While the variety of sets may not match what's available online, many customers appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to inspect sets before buying.

The in-person LEGO Store provides the same benefits as its online counterpart, including the LEGO Insiders program and its point system. These stores also offer interactive experiences, such as LEGO building stations and minifigure customization areas where you can create your own unique figures.

Target and Walmart have dedicated LEGO sections, and their offerings should be compared to the LEGO Store's inventory on a case-by-case basis. GameStop occasionally stocks gaming-themed LEGO sets, while Barnes & Noble sells lifestyle sets, smaller impulse buys, and Harry Potter sets, capitalizing on the franchise's immense popularity. While discounts at these smaller outlets are rare, it's always worth checking for any available deals.

One last note: If you're after a recently retired set, physical stores might still have them in stock. Even though LEGO officially retires sets, third-party retailers don't always adhere to this immediately, so it's possible to find retired sets in stores.

When Do LEGO Sets Go on Sale?

LEGO sets are rarely discounted, given their high demand. LEGO prefers to retire sets rather than reduce prices. However, there are specific times during the year when sales are more likely.

LEGO celebrates May 4 (Star Wars Day) by offering double Insider points on Star Wars sets. Similarly, March 10 (Mario Day) features promotions in collaboration with Nintendo. Keep an eye on these dates, as well as other notable anniversaries related to third-party franchises.

Clearance deals at box-stores are more common at the beginning of the year when LEGO retires old sets and introduces new ones, prompting retailers to refresh their inventory. The holiday season, particularly Black Friday and Cyber Monday, offers significant discounts. Amazon Prime Days in July and October are also excellent opportunities to find LEGO deals. Stay informed about upcoming sales events to maximize your chances of securing LEGO sets at reduced prices.