When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Buffalo Exchange
Why Buffalo Exchange is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Buffalo Exchange is a unique resale clothing business that has been redefining sustainable fashion since its founding in 1974 in Tucson, Arizona. Unlike typical thrift stores, Buffalo Exchange operates on a buy-sell-trade business model wherein customers bring in carefully selected, gently used clothing and accessories to sell or trade. This model promotes sustainability by extending the life cycle of garments and encouraging responsible consumption. The stores offer a curated inventory that balances current trends, vintage finds, designer pieces, and everyday staples, ensuring a diverse and stylish shopping experience. With over 40 locations nationwide, Buffalo Exchange has grown to be a popular destination for fashion enthusiasts looking for affordable, one-of-a-kind fashion while supporting eco-friendly retail practices. The atmosphere is welcoming and clean, designed to make secondhand shopping accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages. Community engagement is another hallmark of Buffalo Exchange, which supports environmental initiatives like their annual Earth Day sales and Tokens for Bags program, reinforcing their commitment to both fashion and sustainability.
Here's what people think of Buffalo Exchange
As of recent, Buffalo Exchange holds a 3.5-star rating based on 364 reviews.
Customer reviews for Buffalo Exchange reflect mixed experiences, resulting in an overall rating of 3.5 stars from 364 reviews. Positive feedback often highlights the store's curated, high-quality selection of clothing and accessories, praising the unique variety from vintage and designer items to trendy staples. Many shoppers appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff who help create a fun and rewarding shopping experience. The buy-sell-trade model is also well-liked for offering flexibility and instant payment options, supporting sustainable fashion choices. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on employee dissatisfaction, especially regarding management practices and high staff turnover, which can impact store consistency and customer service. Complaints include issues with hours extending beyond scheduled shifts and lack of proper treatment for workers. Despite these challenges, Buffalo Exchange remains favored for its innovative concept and community-focused approach, which continues to attract both customers and staff passionate about sustainable fashion. Overall, reviewers conclude that while there can be operational shortcomings, Buffalo Exchange provides a distinctive and valuable resale shopping experience that many enjoy returning to.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Brad
I showed up with my buffalo to trade in but was quickly set straight on the purpose of the store. As it turns out my buffalo and I left with a snappy matching outfit. Seriously....Great Staff....Great store. 5 Stars!!!
Nena Valderrama
Honestly if I could give 0 stars I would. I went in today August 1st to sell some clothes and shoes since they advertise as buying used to new items. They didn’t take a pair of docs because they were creased, right behind the register was a pair of the most ugliest almost falling apart boots I’ve ever seen. Almost didn’t take my other pair of docs for a single crease. The sole had zero marks. Clothes straight up said no because they’re not in season. They were plus size clothes which made me feel a bit offended because he would give the clothe and me a dirty look. He made us seem as if I would get $40 and instead I got $10.50. My Kate Spade bag was also reflected. Do not buy from here because they supposedly offer you the most they can and then put a pricier tag on it. Reading the reviews it seems like there’s a pattern with this place. They make up a poor apology and don’t even make things right just say “hope you give us another try” like if that happened again they would do the same exact thing. They told my friend her goth clothe was Halloween clothe and not in season. The people in there make it seem like they’re high and mighty. If you are plus size or goth or anything besides what they consider “normal” or “in season” do not shop or sell there because you will be robbed. Go to amvets or goodwill or he’ll even target. At least it will be worth it there.
Rebekah C.
What a JOKE! Goodwill has better quality clothes for a third of the price. Used and torn up shoes don’t go lower than $30. Faded and visibly used t-shirts start at $15. The clothes are ugly, overpriced, and the customer service was nonexistent. Save your time and your money (because don’t forget you have to pay for parking too) and go to a goodwill 5 minutes away.
Brian Such
Such a big selection of clothing, duh! Enjoy your shopping here
Daniella Sosa
Always find such great items and they even have a sale rack now with some gems! Selling is super easy I suggest coming once they open it. Every employee I spoke to today was very friendly! Seven took care of going through the items I was selling and I was able to get $30 store credit & I paid $15 for jeans a cute Zara crop top and a lulu trench coat! Such a great deal. Lots of pretty designer dresses as well.
How to reach Buffalo Exchange
None
Website: None
Why Buffalo Exchange may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Buffalo Exchange with your friends?
Buffalo Exchange offers a uniquely engaging and social experience that makes it a prime spot to rally with friends or family. Unlike a typical retail store, Buffalo Exchange is a vibrant buy-sell-trade thrift shop where you can discover one-of-a-kind fashion finds, sell your pre-loved clothing for instant cash or store credit, and simultaneously contribute to sustainable shopping practices. This interactive and eco-conscious shopping environment encourages group participation—everyone can hunt for hidden gems, compare style choices, and trade fashion tips while browsing. The thrill of finding vintage or high-quality designer pieces mixed with everyday styles fosters a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for socializing and sharing discoveries. Whether you’re a group of fashion enthusiasts, budget-savvy shoppers, or eco-conscious friends, Buffalo Exchange’s inclusive vibe supports an engaging shared outing. Moreover, its convenient store hours and multiple California locations ensure easy access. This combination of community spirit, sustainability, and style curation turns shopping at Buffalo Exchange into not only a fun group activity but also a rewarding and meaningful experience.
What kind of activities can you do at Buffalo Exchange during your meetup?
Buffalo Exchange offers diverse activities that can make a group meetup dynamic and interactive. First, as a buy-sell-trade store, it invites each person in your group to participate in selling their gently used clothing and accessories on the spot, without needing an appointment. This immediate selling process adds excitement as you receive cash or trade credit instantly, fueling your shopping spree. Browsing through the well-curated collection—which includes trendy, vintage, and designer pieces—is another activity that’s perfect to do together, allowing group members to discuss styles, try on outfits, and help one another style their finds. Special event days, such as National Thrift Shop Day celebrations or exclusive brand collaborations like the Laufey-inspired pop-up collection, add further excitement and community engagement to your visit. While shopping, friends can swap stories behind vintage items, plan coordinated outfits, or challenge each other to find the best deal or most unique piece. In some locations, Buffalo Exchange hosts community-oriented events like “Brunch & Thrift” where you can enjoy snacks and beverages while shopping, adding a relaxed social element to your meetup. All these activities foster interaction, creativity, and shared enjoyment, making your group outing memorable.
Why is Buffalo Exchange perfect for a group meetup?
Buffalo Exchange’s welcoming and inclusive environment is tailor-made for group meetups. Its stores are spacious enough to accommodate multiple people comfortably, allowing everyone to shop at their own pace while still being close enough to socialize and communicate. The mix of styles caters to a wide range of tastes and ages, so groups with diverse fashion preferences can all find something exciting and relevant. Additionally, the no-appointment, open-from-open-to-close buying process means your group can easily coordinate and participate together in selling and trading without hassle. The variety of store locations, especially in popular areas like Pacific Beach, Melrose, Pasadena, and Costa Mesa, make Buffalo Exchange an accessible destination for urban groups or day-trippers looking for a fun activity. The staff at these locations tend to be knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the group experience with personalized assistance when needed. Plus, the ability to refresh your wardrobes sustainably while socializing adds a feel-good factor to your meetup. This blend of convenience, community, and curated fashion makes Buffalo Exchange a standout destination for friends or families aiming to spend quality time together while doing something creative and conscious.
How does selling your clothes at Buffalo Exchange add value to your group outing?
Selling your pre-loved clothes at Buffalo Exchange adds a unique dimension of value to any group outing by turning your fashion downtime into earning time. Each member of your group can bring in items they no longer wear and quickly get paid cash or receive trade credit, which can then be immediately reinvested in new-to-you pieces within the store. This on-the-spot transaction model introduces a fun challenge: who can bring in the most valuable items or snag an amazing trade deal? It creates conversation and competition that adds energy to the shopping experience. Moreover, selling is a practical way to declutter responsibly, supporting sustainable fashion by extending the life cycle of garments—an increasingly important consideration for environmentally aware groups. The process is simple and flexible, with no appointments needed; simply show up, scan a QR code, and wait for your turn, making it easy to incorporate into your group’s schedule. This active element makes the meetup interactive and productive beyond just browsing, giving everyone a sense of accomplishment and a story to share afterward.
What makes the Buffalo Exchange shopping collection special for your group?
Buffalo Exchange’s carefully curated collection sets it apart as the ideal spot for groups with a diverse range of fashion tastes and budgets. Their inventory spans current trends, everyday wear, vintage treasures, and even designer labels, encouraging everyone in the group to find something that matches their unique style or adventurous fashion goals. Because the stock is constantly rotating due to buy-sell-trade activity, each visit offers new surprises and exclusive pieces you won’t find in typical retail outlets. This excitement enhances group dynamics as members can share discoveries, swap styling advice, and try on different looks—activities that foster deeper interaction and enjoyment. The affordability of items combined with the sustainability focus of thrifting also appeals to budget-conscious shoppers who wish to enjoy quality fashion without excess waste. Special promotions and event days further enrich the selection with themed collections and limited-edition merchandise, giving groups another shared experience centered around fashion culture.
How does Buffalo Exchange support sustainable and conscious fashion for groups?
Buffalo Exchange stands as a pioneer in sustainable fashion, encouraging groups to shop and trade with a positive environmental impact. By giving clothes a second life through buying, selling, and trading, the store reduces textile waste and slows the fast fashion cycle. This is increasingly meaningful for groups who prioritize eco-conscious living, as it turns a fun social event into an act of sustainability. The store’s model allows immediate rewards for recycling clothing, motivating more people to participate and spread awareness. Furthermore, Buffalo Exchange’s longstanding presence since 1974 reflects its authentic commitment to responsible fashion practices. For groups interested in making an ethical statement while enjoying a stylish outing, Buffalo Exchange provides the perfect venue where sustainability and trend converge. This shared value can deepen group bonds as you collectively contribute to a circular fashion economy.
Where are Buffalo Exchange stores located and what conveniences support group visits?
Buffalo Exchange boasts multiple locations across California, including popular spots in San Diego’s Pacific Beach, Los Angeles’ Melrose Avenue, Pasadena’s Downtown district, and Costa Mesa’s The LAB Antimall. These locations are situated in vibrant neighborhoods rich with dining, entertainment, and cultural options, enabling groups to easily turn a shopping trip into a full day of activities. The stores typically have convenient parking options such as private lots, street parking, or shared mall parking, ensuring groups can plan their arrival without stress. Their hours are generous—usually open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on most days and slightly shorter on Sundays—giving groups plenty of flexibility to coordinate meetups. Additionally, each store provides a smooth selling process by allowing customers to sign up instantly via QR code to sell their items, streamlining group participation. These logistical conveniences combine to deliver a low-friction, enjoyable excursion suitable for social gatherings whether weekend or weekday.
What special events or promotions can enhance your group meetup at Buffalo Exchange?
Buffalo Exchange frequently hosts community-driven events and special promotions that provide added incentives and excitement for group visits. Examples include celebrations like National Thrift Shop Day offering discounts on full-priced items and free tote bags for qualifying purchases. Themed pop-ups, such as curated collections inspired by popular artists, create unique shopping experiences with limited-edition merchandise and giveaways for early customers. Another event such as “Brunch & Thrift” blends delicious food and drinks with sustainable shopping, appealing to groups who enjoy social dining with retail therapy. These events foster an energetic, festival-like atmosphere that promotes mingling, discovery, and collective enjoyment. Planning your meetup around such occasions enhances your outing by providing additional shared memories, exclusive deals, and vibrant atmospheres that strengthen the group's connection beyond shopping.
How can Buffalo Exchange foster bonding and memories for friends and family?
Buffalo Exchange offers a setting that naturally promotes bonding through shared discovery and collaborative shopping. Hunting for vintage treasures or trendy pieces encourages conversation and playful exchanges of opinions, helping friends and family express their tastes and personalities. Trying on unique garments and receiving honest feedback strengthens relationships through fun, informal support. Selling clothes together adds an element of teamwork as group members help identify valuable items or encourage one another to refresh wardrobes sustainably. The store’s lively and welcoming ambiance sets a relaxed tone where friendship and family can thrive while engaging in a purposeful activity. Over time, shared visits become a tradition that weaves fashion, sustainability, and companionship into lasting memories that go beyond the store trip itself.
What makes Buffalo Exchange stand out compared to other thrift or consignment stores?
Buffalo Exchange differs from typical thrift or consignment stores by pioneering the buy-sell-trade model, established in 1974, which merges the best of secondhand shopping with on-the-spot selling convenience. This immediate cash or trade credit system invites active participation—a refreshing alternative to the slower consignment process or strictly donation-based thrift shops. Their emphasis on a carefully curated, constantly refreshed inventory enables shoppers to find quality, on-trend pieces and rare vintage finds alike. The friendly, knowledgeable staff and community-centered approach foster a welcoming environment where fashion lovers can connect. Moreover, Buffalo Exchange’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainable style and fashion recycling gives customers a clear purpose beyond simply shopping or selling, setting it apart as a socially responsible and enjoyable destination. This blend of innovation, style, and community engagement makes the store an outstanding venue for group meetups.
How can you maximize your group outing experience at Buffalo Exchange?
To get the most out of your Buffalo Exchange group outing, coordinate in advance on what kinds of items each member wants to sell or shop for, which can streamline your adventure and increase the chances of finding coveted pieces. Arrive early, especially on event days, to access exclusive promotions, giveaways, and fresh inventory. Use the store’s QR code system for quick signing up to sell and stay nearby for your turn to avoid waiting long or having to rejoin the queue. Encourage fashion sharing by planning mini fashion shows or photo sessions outside the store to capture your finds and memories. Pair your visit with meals or activities in nearby neighborhoods to extend the day experience. Above all, maintain an open mind to discovering unexpected treasures and enjoy the social thrill of thrifting together. This deliberate preparation will elevate your group outing into a rewarding and memorable occasion.
This comprehensive exploration of Buffalo Exchange reveals why it is such a compelling destination to host meetups with friends or family: a vibrant fashion marketplace that combines sustainability, community, and style into a richly social experience.