Best Thrift Stores for MSU Students

Best Thrift Stores for MSU Students

East Lansing thrifting is a mix of “I need basics for class” and “I need to furnish my place for the price of one textbook.” The best part is you’ve got a true hidden gem on campus (MSU Surplus), plus several solid stores nearby when you want more clothes, more variety, or better apartment finds.

1) MSU Surplus Store (East Lansing)

MSU Surplus is the ultimate treasure-hunt store because it’s literally where campus items get a second life. One week it’s desks and chairs, the next it’s storage, electronics, and random useful stuff that makes your apartment feel put together without paying full price.

The Details!

Address: 468 Green Way, East Lansing, MI 48824.

Website: MSU Surplus Store (Hours & Location)

Public in-store shopping: Fridays, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Phone: (517) 355-1723.

2) Uptown Cheapskate

Uptown Cheapskate is more curated than a traditional thrift store, so it’s perfect when you want trendier pieces without paying full retail. It’s also a buy-sell-trade, so you can clear out your closet and potentially walk away with cash.

The Details!

Address: 4790 S Hagadorn Rd Ste 138, East Lansing, MI 48823.

Website: Uptown Cheapskate Lansing

Store hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Buy hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sun 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

3) Plato’s Closet

Plato’s Closet is a student favorite because it leans more “name-brand and current style” than random-bin thrifting. If you want outfits for game days, parties, or just upgrading your everyday rotation, this is usually an easy win.

Details you need

Address: 2825 E Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823.

Website: Plato’s Closet East Lansing

Store hours: Sun 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Mon-Sat 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Bonus: Goodwill Donation Center (East Lansing)

Not a shopping thrift store, but super useful if you’re decluttering. If you’re doing a closet clean-out, this donation center is nearby and easy!

The Details!

Address: 2200 Coolidge Court, East Lansing, MI 48823.

Website: https://goodwillcmh.org/contact/

Donation center hours: Mon–Sat 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Sun 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

FAQ

Q: What are the best thrift stores for MSU students in East Lansing?

A: MSU Surplus Store (East Lansing), Uptown Cheapskate, and Plato’s Closet

Q: What is MSU Surplus Store (East Lansing) best for?

A: Desks and chairs, storage, electronics, and random useful stuff

Q: Where can I find trendier thrift pieces near MSU?

A: Uptown Cheapskate

Q: Where can I donate items near East Lansing if I’m decluttering?

A: Bonus: Goodwill Donation Center (East Lansing)

Q: When is MSU Surplus Store (East Lansing) open for public in-store shopping?

A: Fridays, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.