The Best Places to Buy LEGO Sets in 2025

LEGO's popularity has exploded over the past decade, captivating not only children but also teens and adults. The sets themselves have evolved dramatically, offering intricate details, diverse functionalities, and a wider range of styles. Some are designed for imaginative play, others for display as stunning dioramas or valuable collectibles, and an increasing number seamlessly integrate into home decor as wall art, plant holders, and more.

With hundreds of LEGO sets available, spanning various piece counts, themes, and price points, potential buyers often face two key challenges: finding the desired set and securing it at a reasonable price. A major contributing factor is LEGO's retirement policy. All sets, even popular ones, are eventually retired to make way for new releases. This practice has fueled a robust resale market where prices are often inflated by 200-300%.

The inherent cost of LEGO is another reality. Prices have steadily increased in recent years. Consider the colossal 7,541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon, released in 2017 for $800 (already exceeding the typical "10 cents per piece" average). Today, it commands around $850.

Strategic shopping can mitigate these challenges. Below are the best places to buy LEGO sets in 2025, along with optimal times to find deals.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets Online

LEGO Store: The official LEGO Store boasts the widest selection, easily searchable by theme, price, release date, and customer rating. Excellent customer service and the LEGO Insiders program (offering various perks, including early access to sets and exclusive rewards) make it a top choice. Points earned can be redeemed for future purchases (6.5 points per dollar spent, 130 points = $1). Double points events maximize savings.

Amazon: Offers modest discounts on many sets.

Target: Accepts LEGO Insider points (though the exchange rate may not always be advantageous) and occasionally offers discounts.

Walmart: Similar to Target, offering modest discounts and occasionally featuring exclusive deals.

Ultimately, comparing prices and benefits across these retailers is crucial. Weigh the potential 10% discount at Target against the full price at the LEGO Store, factoring in future discounts and exclusive sets offered through the Insiders program.

Where to Buy Retired Sets Online

For retired sets, unofficial marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are your only option. Expect higher prices; direct communication with sellers, negotiation, and thorough price comparison are essential.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets in Stores

Brick-and-mortar stores offer a hands-on experience. The in-person LEGO Store mirrors the online store's benefits, including the Insiders program and interactive features like building stations. Target and Walmart also carry LEGO, but their inventory and discounts should be compared to the LEGO Store on a case-by-case basis. Gamestop and Barnes & Noble may offer select sets, but discounts are less common.

For recently retired sets, checking brick-and-mortar stores is worthwhile, as retailers may not immediately clear out all stock.

When Do LEGO Sets Go on Sale?

Beyond occasional box-store discounts, LEGO sets rarely see price reductions. However, specific times offer better deals:

• May 4th (Star Wars Day) and March 10th (Mario Day): Often feature double Insider points on related sets.
• Beginning of the Year: Clearance deals are more common as retailers refresh inventory after new set launches.
• Holiday Season (Black Friday, Cyber Monday), Amazon Prime Days (July & October): Expect deeper discounts.

Stay informed about upcoming sales events for potential LEGO deals.