LEGO's enduring appeal has broadened its consumer base beyond children to encompass teenagers and adults. This surge in popularity is mirrored by the increasing complexity, functionality, and variety of LEGO sets themselves. Sets now range from play-focused designs to intricate display pieces and collectible items, even extending to home décor, such as wall art and plant replicas.
The sheer volume of LEGO sets available presents two key challenges for buyers: locating desired sets and securing them at reasonable prices. The primary obstacle is the retirement policy employed by LEGO. All sets, regardless of popularity, are eventually retired to make way for new releases. This practice fuels a robust resale market, where prices often inflate to two or three times the original retail value.
Adding to the challenge is the inherent cost of LEGO products, which has steadily increased in recent years. The 7541-piece Millennium Falcon, released in 2017 for $800, serves as a prime example. Even then, it exceeded the typical "10 cents per piece" cost of most sets, and its current price hovers around $850.
Strategic shopping can mitigate these issues. Below are the best places to buy LEGO sets in 2025, along with optimal times to find deals.
Online LEGO Retailers
LEGO Insiders Program### LEGO Store
4See it at LEGO
The Best Discounts### Amazon
2See it at Amazon
Accepts LEGO Insider Points### Target
1See it at Target
Exclusive Deals### Walmart
0See it at Walmart
The official LEGO Store is the ideal starting point, boasting the largest selection, easy sorting options (theme, price, release date, rating), responsive customer service, and the LEGO Insiders program. This free program offers numerous benefits: early access to sets, incentive-based free sets, and exclusive items unavailable elsewhere.
The LEGO Store's points system is particularly attractive. Each dollar spent earns 6.5 points, with 130 points equaling $1 (effectively a 5% discount). Double points promotions further enhance its value.
Amazon, Target, and Walmart offer alternative online options, providing modest discounts on many sets. However, they lack the LEGO Store's points system and exclusive offerings. The LEGO Store generally charges full price unless clearing out stock.
AnswerSee ResultsUltimately, a cost-benefit analysis is crucial. Weigh the appeal of a 10% discount at Target (Insider points' value notwithstanding) against the full price at the LEGO Store, factoring in future discounts and potential free sets.
Locating Retired Sets
Unofficial marketplaces (Craigslist, eBay, Facebook, etc.) are the only avenue for retired sets, but expect significantly higher prices. Direct communication with sellers, price negotiation, and thorough comparison shopping are essential.
In-Store LEGO Shopping
While in-store selection may be less diverse than online, the personal touch and hands-on experience appeal to many. The LEGO Store mirrors its online counterpart in terms of the Insiders program and interactive features (building stations, minifigure customization). Target and Walmart also offer dedicated LEGO sections, while Gamestop and Barnes & Noble carry select sets. Discounts are less common at smaller retailers, but remain a possibility.
For recently retired sets, brick-and-mortar stores offer a slim chance of finding remaining stock, as retailers don't always immediately remove retired items.
LEGO Sale Timing
Beyond standard box-store discounts, LEGO sales are infrequent. However, key dates offer enhanced opportunities:
- May 4 (Star Wars Day): Double Insider points on Star Wars sets.
- March 10 (Mario Day): Similar deals in collaboration with Nintendo.
- Year-End Clearance: Significant discounts at box stores as they refresh inventory after new releases.
- Holiday Season (Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Days): Prime opportunities for substantial savings.
