Top LEGO Set Purchase Spots for 2025

Over the past decade, the popularity and demand for LEGO have soared tremendously. What was once a simple building toy for children has evolved to captivate teens and adults alike. The sets themselves have become more intricate, versatile, and diverse, catering to a wide range of interests and uses.

Some sets are designed for interactive play, sparking creativity and fun. Others are crafted for display, serving as stunning dioramas or valuable collectibles. Additionally, a growing segment of sets serves as lifestyle accessories, such as wall decorations, plants, and flowers, seamlessly integrating into home decor.

Currently, there are hundreds of LEGO sets available for purchase, spanning various piece counts, themes, and price points. However, potential buyers often face two main challenges: locating the desired set and finding it at a reasonable price. A common issue contributing to these challenges is that many sets become "retired." LEGO retires all its sets, even the most popular ones, to introduce new models, leading to a thriving resale market where sets can be sold for two to three times their original price.

Moreover, LEGO sets are inherently expensive, and prices have been steadily increasing over the years. For instance, the massive 7541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon, launched in 2017 at $800, was already above the typical '10 cents per piece' rate. Today, the same set costs $850.

To navigate these challenges, it's essential to be a savvy and diligent consumer. Here are the best places to shop for LEGO sets in 2025, along with optimal times to find deals.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets Online

LEGO Store

4See it at LEGO

The most obvious place to shop for LEGO online is the official LEGO Store. It boasts the widest selection, easily sortable by theme, price, release date, and customer rating. The store also offers responsive customer service and a LEGO Insiders program. Free to join, this program provides numerous benefits, including the ability to purchase sets before they are released to the general public, receive free sets as spending incentives, and access exclusive sets not available through third-party retailers.

The LEGO Store's point system is particularly appealing. Every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, with 130 points equating to $1, effectively giving you a 5% return on your purchases. There are also specific times of the year when you can earn double points, maximizing the program's value.

Other reliable online options include Amazon, Target, and Walmart. While these platforms don't offer the point system or exclusivity of the LEGO Store, they often provide modest discounts on most sets. The LEGO Store typically charges full retail price, except during select occasions when clearing out inventory near the end of a set's lifecycle.

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 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 offer another shopping avenue. While they may not match the online variety, many prefer the personalized attention and the opportunity to handle sets before buying.

The in-person LEGO Store is an excellent choice, mirroring the benefits of 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 in their stores, which should be compared to the LEGO Store's inventory on a case-by-case basis. Gamestop occasionally offers gaming-themed LEGO sets, while Barnes and Noble stocks lifestyle sets, smaller impulse buys, and Harry Potter-themed sets, aligning with the franchise's massive popularity.

One last note: For recently retired sets, brick-and-mortar stores are your best bet. Although LEGO officially retires sets, third-party retailers may not immediately follow suit. You might find sets that are months past their official retirement date still on the shelves. While it's not guaranteed, it's definitely worth checking.

When Do LEGO Sets Go on Sale?

LEGO sets rarely go on sale, given their high demand and LEGO's preference to retire sets rather than discount them. However, there are specific times throughout the year when discounts are more likely.

LEGO celebrates Star Wars Day on May 4 by offering double Insider points on Star Wars sets. Similarly, Mario Day on March 10 features partnerships with Nintendo and comparable deals. Keep an eye on notable anniversaries, especially those related to third-party franchises, for potential sales.

Look for clearance deals at box-stores, which are more common 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, is ideal for deep discounts. Amazon Prime Days in July and October also present solid opportunities. Stay vigilant for upcoming sales events to snag LEGO deals.