I'm not so much in to antiques like i was back in the day but Whistlestop is a really cool, nice, organized, large antique store a block from historic Railroad Square. Don't think dusty old furniture, rust, & spiderwebs... everything is clean & shining bright. There is a ton of antiques & collectibles to browse plus it all has price tags although a lot of tags are upside down. More Bakelight & cast iton than I've ever seen in one place. Franklin & Walking Liberty halves, tons of vintage magazine ads all organized like albums in a record store. Jewelry, toys, dolls, furniture, phones, cameras & lenses... I'm guessing the space is around 6,000 square feet including the upstairs. It took me about 40 minutes to do a very thorough walk-through and i could have stayed longer buty parking meter was going to expire so a had to take off. If you like collectibles or antiques definately stop in the place. read more

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Holy smokes the prices in the jewelry section are steeeeeep. 14k plain gold band 5.4g was $895. Melt value would be about $490. Antique adds more value at about $650. Found very similar on eBay for $499. Split dish Pyrex in okay condition ranging from $60-$30. Go in knowing you're going to over pay and you'll be fine! Don't dare ask about pricing or you'll get an eye roll and a disgusted scoff lol. Overall great selection. My mom owned an antique store for decades and I know how to spot a deal and a dud. read more

I walked into Whistlestop in attempt to find something for displaying incoming products in my shop. I haven't been back for some time following an unpleasant experience, during which my partner and I were racially profiled. I left without making a purchase, but after wrestling with feelings of unease, decided to share my Feedback with the manager, Lu. I told her that the last time we were in, my partner and I walked upstairs to shop the book selection only to come down and overhear a conversation between two of the employees about how they really need to get cameras installed upstairs because they "have no way of watching people up there" (we were the ONLY ppl upstairs). When my partner and I approached them the conversation abruptly ended and one of the two women hosting the conversation scurried away. I told Lu that I had been hanging onto the memory of the event and that I no longer wanted to bear the uncomfortable feelings it brings up. This was her response: "I'm sorry, but we've had a lot of terrible, terrible things happening in the shop lately. ... to which I reminded her that this is no excuse for profiling Black patrons. She said: "You really should just let it go because there are a lot of people here that are stuck in their ways and aren't going to change." I politely told her that it wasn't her place to tell me to let it go, but to consider offering to educate her team. To this she said: "I'm sorry. Clearly anything that I am going to say, won't be good enough for you." I said, "clearly", and offered the solution of posting this review. Btw, Lu was one of the two women engaged in the cited conversation. Please shop elsewhere. UPDATE: They are horribly & unapologetically racist. Friends of mine have had the same experience: one of them white & the other brown and of Mexican descent, guess which one gets followed around when they split up? Unfortunately typical. read more

This one of those places where you never know what treasure you'll stumble upon! The staff and vendors are friendly and knowledgeable, and the mix of styles makes it easy to spend an hour (or two) browsing. Items are always being brought in, so inventory changes often. Also, don't miss the upstairs! That's where a lot of the best deals are. It's easy to overlook, but definitely worth the extra few minutes to check out. Always a fun stop when I'm in Santa Rosa. read more

Amazing store! So many things to see, so make sure you have plenty of time. It almost feels like a museum. Staff was friendly and attentive. There are people that will ask you if you need help as other reviewers have mentioned, but that is because most items are locked in cases and you will need assistance to get cases unlocked to view items. The store seemed organized and cared for. Great location with lots of restaurants and other shopping close by. Reasonable prices. Wonderful selection of vintage and antique items! They are open every day of the week, unlike some antique stores locally that are only open on weekends. I understand why the are voted best antique store in Sonoma County every year! read more

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Great things and the people were kind and helpful. Price sometimes can be a little over, but you got to hunt for it read more

I agree with other reviewers about being racially profiled. I was in the store for about 10 minutes and was followed by an old white lady the whole entire time. she asked me if she could help me with anything 4 times while I was there. Never want to step foot in the store again. read more

Can here after spending a little bit of time in Sebastopol antiquing we were told to check this place out in Santa Rosa. Wasn't a hard place to find and parking was east across the street. Walking in there's is so much to see. It is very eclectic type of place where there's everything and anything there. So many nooks and crannies to look at, it's like a treasure hunting. The people who work their are nice enough and will answer any questions you. If you like vintage toy furniture is clothing, and everything else in between this is definitely the place to check out read more

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Was really expecting to be blown away after hearing rave reviews from another collector, but was left feeling rather meh. A decent volume of offerings, lots to look through, but I felt like a lot of the store was cluttered with things nobody actually wants to own. If you like combing through brick a brack and general antiques this may be more up your alley, but if you like art, collectables, homegoods this is a pass. If you're in the area might as well stop in, but not worth going out of your way for. read more

Definitely will come back here again! I loved all the different antiques that they had! They had very good options! There was lots of staff but kinda hard to ask for help. I would say if you were to buy something make sure before you buy you do research on the item first. Reason why I say that is whoever does the tags mislabels items. Like ruby rings were mislabeled as garnets. Heat treated citrine was labeled as natural citrine. Some items were over priced and some were reasonable honestly. But still a cute shop that I would return to. read more

Super overpriced. It appears to be individual sellers that price their own items, but DANG. One booth had empty Strauss milk pint bottles for $18 each, which cost a $2 deposit when you buy them at the grocery store - they're not even antiques! I can walk into my neighborhood grocery store and purchase a pint of milk, and keep the bottle for over $10 less. That one was particularly egregious, but I kept getting the "they want *that much* for *that*?!" shock over and over again throughout the store. It was a fun store to poke around but I have no need to return. read more

My first visit here and I was pleasantly surprised. I had figured, wrongly that a downtown antique store would have sky high prices, but I did not find that to be the case whatsoever. What I did find were reasonable prices on a variety of items I would consider purchasing. Also a nicely varied variety since this is a coop of vendors. The secret bonus is upstairs where there is an incredible magical bookshop, and an equally interesting gentlemen who owns the shop. He was a delight to speak with and has some nice art for sale as well. This Railroad Square is a great location for shopping, ample, yet metered parking and just has a different, charming, even elevated sort of vibe than the rest of downtown Santa Rosa. Tip: Sidewalk Sale this weekend 8/11 &12, 20% entire inner store inventory! Your Welcome :) read more

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One of the best antique places in Sonoma County. Fairly priced. I had a lady ask if she could hold the painting I was walking around with at the front for me which was super nice! read more

Loved this store! Beautifully curated booths! Great prices and such helpful staff! Found some treasures!!

First, the sign outside reads, "Whistle Stop" and not "Whistlestop." Second, my camera backpack has approximately $6k in equipment, no, I'm not going to leave my bag behind the counter. Not only that, but I'm not going to leave a single dollar. Not a single penny, or dime. Whistle Stop or Whistlestop Antiquities is so concerned about my bag, they can't even see the hundreds of dollars what just walked out the door. No, thank you. I'll leave. read more

Store is very overpriced now. The worst thing they will not let you use the bathroom anymore even If you purchase something. Had to leave the store and visit a restaurant down the street. Every other big antique store in the surrounding cities has a clean restroom you can use Whistlestop has theirs locked up and a private sign on the door. I won't be going back anytime soon. read more

This vintage/antique store is quite expansive when you get inside. It took me quite a while to browse the whole place and I may have missed some areas as I only showed up with an hour and a half before closing. I know I didn't get to explore the upstairs so hopefully next time I'll do that too. Downstairs has lots of knick knacks, jewelry, figurines, décor, and some furniture and clothing. Staff was very polite and helpful. It was easy to find someone to help me see things in the locked cases. The only downside was when I got home I realized one of the figures I set aside and wanted to buy wasn't bought. I didn't have the figure and wasn't charged for it. I'm not sure what happened there and since the store is so big I'm worried I won't be able to find it again next time I'm able to return. Other than that, it was a great visit. read more

Unbelievably rude staff. Like prior comments on Yelp they are very racist and superficial. Not very smart on their inventory and was treated poorly by Candy. read more

Friendly staff and lots of pretty glassware for sale. I picked up a slick mcm Italian art glass vase here and I love it!

I was in your shop and had a conversation with Martin, an employee. At first the conversation was pleasant. He asked questions and I thought nothing of it. I thought we was trying to help me as an employee. Martin asked me if I was single and then asked me out to coffee. This interaction made me very uncomfortable as I believe there to be a 30+ year age difference. I did not say anything in the moment because I was very uncomfortable and just wanted to leave as quickly as possible. I love this store and could spend hour admiring the items. Unfortunately I will not be returning to this store after that interaction. read more

It is always a pleasure to pay a visit to this store whenever I find myself in Santa Rosa.

I entered this store yesterday to shop and took some pictures and video to share with friends. I was so disappointed to see that blackface dolls and other racist paraphernalia was on prominent display. I was understandably questioned about my recording. I was fallowed by an older man the entire time. I asked him about a robe and he helped me find the price. He still kept fallowing me asking me what I do. When I mentioned I collect clothes and vintage things he told me there were NO clothes here and that I should go to the other shops around. It felt like a message to leave. Also, it was my birthday and went in there to treat myself so I was extra upset after my visit. I will not be giving this shop any of my business. I demand you destroy those hurtful artifacts and donate the money you would have made to charity. read more

Whistlestop Antiques - Antiques Near Me - Santa Rosa, California

4 Stars because they're such a long time standing brick and mortar store and holds so much history of Santa Rosa. I've been browising here sense I was little and it brings back a lot of sweet memories. They have honestly some of the strangest stuff, and some of the things that are still for sale HAVE BEEN since I was a kid. In certain parts of the store it'll feel like taking a time travel trip back to the late 1800's early 1900's. It's the perfect store for it's location. But most everything is over priced. read more

Exploring Downtown Santa Rosa before dinner, we noticed this large interesting store in the Rail Road Square area and decided to check it out. This antique store is a shopping adventure at every turn in each little section. From furniture, magazines, books, toys, model trains, sports equipment / memorabilia, glassware, and more. Our friend, a collector of fountain pens, found two pens that she will be adding to her collection. A cool store to check out and it will bring back some memories and to see what it was like in years past for the younger generation. read more

This store has EVERYTHING. 90's kids will be taken back to grandma's house for sure. ((***COMICS near the back!!)) read more

Whistlestop Antiques - Antiques Near Me - Santa Rosa, California

Over the years I've browsed but never bought anything. A few days ago my husband and I brought in some vintage toys and books, hoping to get a knowledgeable antique dealer to purchase or give us an idea of the history, appraisal or any sort of info. They have a rotation system among the different dealers in the store. The woman at the counter was really impressed and excited about our items, but had to allow the person that was up to get the first opportunity . Omg- he had no idea of value, but asked if he could buy two little vintage race cares for $5 for himself. But, I was very disappointed when I showed him a Louisa May Alcott's Little Women set from 1800. He had never heard of that author. Is it me? Isn't that a house hold name? Especially for him, someone in his 70's and in the business. Anyway, the stars might have been higher if there had been a different person up that day . Cute store. Great location- read more

Whistlestop Antiques - This is a set of lead toy soldiers Made in England. The woman at the front counter was really, really interested. Our guy? Not at all . - Antiques Near Me - Santa Rosa, California

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WOW! This is hands down one of the best antique shops I have ever been in. No junk to be found in this place. It honestly houses some of the most amazing artifacts from our past. From kitchen tools and gadgets to toys and furniture. It is honestly a good thing I do not live anywhere near this place (clear across the country) because I would be going home with half of what they have in stock. (If I was rich) Beautiful displays Clean and tidy bays Amazing vintage finds great prices Get here! read more

Most vendors are pretty pricy. And if you want to see something in a case good luck chasing someone down with a key.

Did my Christmas shopping for my wife and daughter here. They were understandably busy, but I got nothing but GREAT service from several "staff" (that's what the nametags said) and one outstanding member who treated me as though she was my personal shopper. Fabulous selection of unique items, fair prices and friendly and funl oving staff. read more

I love visiting throughout the year. Halloween and Christmas are my favorite. I bought a working antique sewing machine, linens, pottery, glass pieces, and dolls throughout my many visits. read more

Whistlestop is a large antique store with different cubbies rented by each vendor. We found a nice array of desirable vintage items, like vintage pyrex, old Time magazines, toys, old books and photos, and various kitchen and home items. The prices were about average (a small Pyrex dish I liked was about $15) and the people were very sweet. If you're into this stuff, it's definitely worth checking out! read more

By far best antiques store around! Staff is friendly and knowledgable. Prices are fair and great selection.

What a fun place to blow a couple of hours. Lot's of mid-century finds - no way to get a bargain on that stuff anymore but prices are reasonable. Not like what you'd find in the City. Yikes! read more

Horrible service. I have no clue what is wrong with the staff running this place, but I have experienced uncomfortable service every visit. You will be belittled as a customer -- despite the fact they are running a tchochke thrift shop. read more

Nice shop with a lot to see. Some spaces were crammed full, which made it a bit scary trying to traverse their aisles. Friendly staff and prices seemed in line with other antique shops in the area. read more

This is the best place in Sonoma County! So many nice dealers and beautiful treasures really unique finds! Always a fun shopping trip! read more

Whistlestop Antiques - Antiques Near Me - Santa Rosa, California

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Yesterday I went into the store and experienced profiling. Cashier didn't greet me and immediately asked if I would like to leave my bag behind the counter and I said ok. I was dressed in interview attire and in no way did I look haggard. As I walked around the store I noticed 4-5 other people with their bags still and I thought that was strange. Even when I stood at the counter to pick up my bag when I was done looking around I was not greeted and had to wait a minute although 2 cashiers were around. In the past I never had this experience. I once enjoyed buying vintage toys at this location. Do not shop here if you are mixed or ethnic looking. I don't know why else I would have been treated so coldly. read more

This place would get 5 stars if it weren't for this one biddy that works there. All of the other people are just lovely. The selection is amazing and the prices are very fair (for the most part). If you have time to dig around in this place, you can find some of the coolest stuff! Unfortunately when I found a few items I wanted to look at, I asked a gentleman, who was willing to go grab the key to that case. The case owner walked over and I told her that someone was grabbing the key to her case. I was trying to save her the trip back to the spot where the keys are at. But she snapped at me and said "it's my case, so I'll get the keys!" I just looked at her like "you crazy old bitch, now I don't even want any of your shit." But I decided to patiently wait, while she delt with this really rude woman and her husband. Then I had her bring out some of the items I wanted to see. Looked at them for a good few minutes, then said "naw, I don't want any of this." I really try to give old people the benefit of the doubt, but just because you probably haven't had the "d" in years, doesn't give you the right to snap at someone who might just be trying to buy your items. I thought about the encounter, and thought to myself, "boy am I lucky that I don't have to work with someone like that" and felt bad for the other great people in that store. Next time I go in there, I will totally avoid her area and make sure to only talk to the other people there, who happen to be splendid. read more

While I'm not a huge fan of this store, this review is for Rick @ Whistlestop. Rick's selection of merchandise is of the highest quality. His space is cleeeeean and well presented. But most importantly, Rick's prices are positively fair. Thanks for the great experience, Rick! read more

My step-father recently passed away, and my mom asked me to bring in some old jewelry, and other collectibles to see if they had any value. They sent me to a back room, and had me spread out all of the items on a table and wait for one of their "expert buyers". Some old guy limped in a few minutes later, and started pawing through the items. He picked up an old pocket knife from World War I and said, "I don't know what this is, but I'm willing to take a chance and give you $5 for it." He then picked up an antique jade bracelet, and said the same thing, offering $5 for it. It was a heavy solid silver bracelet, and I knew the metal content alone was worth at least $50. He did that for various other items, pretending to not know what they were, and offering small amounts for each item. I finally asked him if there was anybody there who knew what these items were, and could give me a fair price. He ignored me, and so I thanked him and started to pack up and leave. He then got desperate, and offered me $10 for the items he had just said were probably worthless. I continued to pack up and got out of there. I took the items to another shop and got over $100 for each of the things Whistlestop had offered me $5 for. The person I sold the items to said that Whistlestop antiques had a reputation for ripping people off. I understand antique stores need to buy items low enough below retail to make a profit, and I was fine with that. But the game this guy was playing with me was ridiculous--pretending to not know what the items were, and lowballing me on stuff that was worth 50+ times what he was offering. Long story short: Stay clear of this place. Since they try to rip you off when you are selling items, I wouldn't trust them when buying items either. read more