The LEGO craze shows no signs of slowing down. What started as a childhood pastime has captivated teens and adults alike, with sets evolving into intricate displays, collectible masterpieces, and even stylish home décor. From playful builds to elaborate dioramas, the variety is staggering.
With hundreds of sets available, spanning diverse themes, piece counts, and price points, finding the perfect LEGO set at a fair price can be challenging. A major hurdle is the retirement of sets—even popular ones—by LEGO to make way for new releases. This fuels a resale market where prices often inflate by two or three times the original cost.
LEGO's inherent cost is another factor. Consider the iconic 7541-piece Millennium Falcon, released in 2017 for $800 (already exceeding the typical 10 cents-per-piece rate). Today, it commands around $850, highlighting the increasing price trend.
Smart shopping strategies are key to navigating this landscape. Below, we explore the best places to find LEGO sets in 2025 and the optimal times to snag deals.
Where to Buy LEGO Sets Online
LEGO Store: The official LEGO Store boasts the broadest selection, easily searchable by theme, price, release date, and customer rating. Excellent customer service and the LEGO Insiders program (with perks like early access and exclusive sets) add value. Points earned on purchases can be redeemed for future discounts.
Amazon: A reliable option offering modest discounts on many sets.
Target: Offers modest discounts and accepts LEGO Insider points (though the exchange rate might not always be favorable).
Walmart: Similar to Target, with modest discounts available.
The LEGO Store's points system offers a 5% return on spending (sometimes doubled during promotions), while Amazon, Target, and Walmart typically offer direct discounts. Consider the value proposition of each option when making your purchase.
Where to Buy Retired Sets Online
For retired sets, unofficial marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook are your only options. Be prepared for higher prices and negotiate diligently.
Where to Buy LEGO Sets in Stores
Brick-and-mortar stores offer a hands-on experience. The LEGO Store provides the same benefits as its online counterpart, including the Insiders program and interactive features. Target and Walmart often have dedicated LEGO sections, while other retailers like GameStop (gaming sets) and Barnes & Noble (lifestyle and Harry Potter sets) might offer a smaller selection.
Retired sets can sometimes be found in physical stores, even after their official retirement.
When Do LEGO Sets Go on Sale?
While discounts are infrequent, key periods to watch for include:
- May 4th (Star Wars Day): Double Insider points on Star Wars sets.
- March 10th (Mario Day): Deals often partnered with Nintendo.
- Year-End Clearance: Box stores often clear out retired sets at the beginning of the year.
- Holiday Season (Black Friday, Cyber Monday): Significant discounts are possible.
- Amazon Prime Days (July & October): Look for LEGO deals during these events.
