Cure Thrift
Quirky NYC thrift store with a DIY charm bar, unique vintage finds, and proceeds benefiting diabetes research.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more charm selection
Cure Thrift
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more charm selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Quirky NYC thrift store with a DIY charm bar, unique vintage finds, and proceeds benefiting diabetes research.
"A thrift shop gem where vintage finds meet DIY fun!"
🎯 Charm Bracelet Fun
Create your own charm bracelet for around $10-$11! A fun, personalized souvenir.
💰 Price Check
Some items can be pricey; compare prices if unsure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
DIY Charm Bar
Charm Bar Area
Craft your own unique charm bracelet with a vast selection of quirky and vintage charms. A fun, affordable DIY experience!
+1
Curated Vintage Clothing
Clothing Racks
Discover a treasure trove of stylish, vintage threads and unique fashion pieces. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind outfits.
+1Eclectic Home Decor & Furniture
Furniture & Decor Sections
Browse an array of quirky, retro, and unique home goods, furniture, and vinyl records. Add character to your living space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
DIY Charm Bracelets & Unique Finds
Support a Cause While You Shop
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Charm Bracelet Fun
Create your own charm bracelet for around $10-$11! A fun, personalized souvenir.
💰 Price Check
Some items can be pricey; compare prices if unsure.
🤝 Friendly Staff
Staff are helpful and knowledgeable about the items.
✨ Unique Finds
Great for discovering quirky, oddball, and quality vintage items.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Charm Bracelet Fun
Create your own charm bracelet for around $10-$11! A fun, personalized souvenir.
💰 Price Check
Some items can be pricey; compare prices if unsure.
🤝 Friendly Staff
Staff are helpful and knowledgeable about the items.
✨ Unique Finds
Great for discovering quirky, oddball, and quality vintage items.
💖 Shop for a Cause
Proceeds support Type 1 Diabetes research and advocacy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cure Thrift is a beloved East Village spot known for its unique charm bar and curated vintage finds, all while supporting diabetes research. While many praise the friendly staff and eclectic inventory, some shoppers note that certain items can be pricey, with occasional concerns about significant markups on used goods.
"Swanky and stylish thrift shop on the more expensive side (think $30-50 for some tees) with plenty of quirky, vintage threads and doohickies. It’s also a popular spot for finding charms. There was a sea of people sorting through tables of charms when I visited. The staff is friendly and helpful and it’s worth checking out for some of the oddball stuff you can find."
Michael Karelis
"if you want to get price gouged, you should shop here. they're selling a pair USED Hondo boots for $350 but forgot to remove the price that shows they were only going for $39.99 from whichever other thrift store it came from first. Thats around a 895% mark up for a supposed "non-profit" organization.
By the way, brand new Hondo boots only go for $290-$350.
Edit in response to response: vintage hondos don’t go for $350. This pair appears to sell only for $82 online, and they some even go for as low as $15 online (see photos). And just cause it’s vintage that doesn’t mean it’s an excuse to mark it up almost 900%.
Only vintage Lucchese boots sell for upwards of $350. This just further proves that whoever is in charge of curation simply just looks up generic terms online like “vintage cowboy boots” and decided to go for the most expensive one. Not a good look for yall."
Carl T
"Cute date spot for charms and bracelets, but too pricey if you want to do some actual thrifting. Fine if you’re looking for expensive art pieces and vintage items."
Shamiha S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cure Thrift is located at 91 3rd Ave, New York, NY. It's accessible via subway lines like the L train to the First Avenue station or the 6 train to the Astor Place station. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the East Village.
Yes, Cure Thrift is well-served by public transportation in NYC. The nearest subway stations are typically Astor Place (6 train) and First Avenue (L train), making it easy to reach from various parts of Manhattan.
From Midtown, you can take the 6 train downtown to Astor Place, which is a short walk from Cure Thrift. Alternatively, you could take a bus route that heads downtown towards the East Village.
Street parking in the East Village can be challenging to find and is often metered. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach Cure Thrift.
Depending on your starting point, Cure Thrift is within walking distance of many East Village shops and restaurants. It's a great addition to a day of exploring the neighborhood.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to enter Cure Thrift. You can browse the store freely during their operating hours.
Operating hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, they are open daily.
The charm bar itself doesn't have a separate entry fee. You pay for the charms you select to create your bracelet, with prices typically ranging from $8 to $11 for a bracelet.
Reservations are generally not required for the charm bar. However, it can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving earlier might give you more selection.
While Cure Thrift is a non-profit, they don't typically advertise specific discounts. However, the charm bar offers an affordable DIY experience, and the prices for other items are generally reflective of their vintage nature.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Experience
Cure Thrift offers a wide variety of secondhand items, including vintage clothing, accessories, furniture, home decor, and vinyl records. They are particularly known for their extensive charm selection for DIY bracelets.
The cost for a DIY charm bracelet typically ranges from $8 to $11, depending on the charms you choose. It's a popular and affordable activity.
Prices can vary. While some visitors find items to be reasonably priced and a great value, others note that some pieces, especially designer vintage, can be on the more expensive side.
Cure Thrift stands out as a non-profit thrift store dedicated to supporting Type 1 Diabetes research. It also offers a fun DIY charm bar and a well-curated selection of vintage goods.
Absolutely! With its eclectic mix of vintage clothing, accessories, and home decor, Cure Thrift is an excellent place to find unique and thoughtful gifts for any occasion.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cure Thrift does not have an in-house cafe or food service. It is primarily a retail store focused on thrifted goods and the charm bar experience.
Yes, Cure Thrift is located in the vibrant East Village, which is packed with diverse dining options. You can find everything from casual cafes and pizza joints to international cuisine and trendy restaurants nearby.
The East Village offers a culinary adventure with numerous options, including Ukrainian, Japanese, Italian, and classic American diners. You'll find plenty of choices to suit any craving after your shopping trip.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best practice to consume outside food and drinks before entering a retail establishment like Cure Thrift to maintain a clean shopping environment.
The East Village is known for its more affordable dining options. Look for local delis, pizza slices, or casual ethnic eateries for budget-friendly meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Cure Thrift for personal use, especially for documenting your charm bracelet creation or finds. However, always be mindful of other shoppers and staff.
The charm bar area, with its colorful array of charms, makes for a vibrant photo backdrop. The unique vintage clothing and decor also offer great opportunities for stylish shots.
Yes, you can take photos of items you're interested in, perhaps to show a friend or for personal reference. If you plan on commercial photography, it's best to ask permission from the staff.
While social media sharing is common, it's always polite to tag the store (@curethrift) and give credit. Avoid intrusive photography that might disrupt the shopping experience for others.
Cure Thrift has a quirky, vintage, and eclectic aesthetic. It's perfect for capturing unique fashion shots, DIY project progress, or the charm of a New York City thrift store.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The store's eclectic nature also provides visual interest, with unique clothing and quirky home decor that can spark curiosity. While some items might be priced higher, the charm bracelet activity is generally affordable for families looking for a creative outing. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience. 💸 Budget Travelers
While some of the larger vintage items or clothing pieces might be priced higher, diligent browsing can still uncover affordable gems. 💖 Couples & Friends
+1 Afterward, the East Village offers a plethora of dining and entertainment options to continue your day. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm Bar Experience
+1 This hands-on experience is a major draw, allowing you to create a unique souvenir that reflects your personal style. The sheer variety of charms available ensures that no two bracelets will be alike, from whimsical animals and tiny food items to vintage-inspired trinkets. It’s a perfect activity for solo visitors, couples, or friends looking for a creative outlet. The process is straightforward: browse the extensive collection of charms, pick your favorites, and then have them assembled into a bracelet. The staff are usually on hand to assist if needed. This interactive element makes it more than just a shopping trip; it’s an engaging experience that many visitors rave about. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon and leave with a tangible, custom-made memento of your time in New York City.
Shopping for a Cause
+2 This underlying purpose adds a layer of meaning to every purchase made. Liz Wolff, the founder, was inspired by her passion for thrifting and a desire to contribute to finding a cure, creating a space where shoppers can feel good about their spending. When you shop at Cure Thrift, you're not just finding vintage treasures; you're directly contributing to a cause that impacts many lives. This dual benefit—finding unique items and supporting vital research—is a key aspect of Cure Thrift's appeal. Visitors often express appreciation for this mission, noting that it makes their shopping experience more rewarding.
+1 It transforms a simple retail visit into an act of support for a meaningful cause. Navigating Prices and Value
It's worth noting that the store's curated selection and its non-profit status contribute to its pricing structure. Some shoppers appreciate the quality and uniqueness of the items, finding them worth the investment, while others suggest being mindful of price comparisons, especially for items that might have originated from other thrift stores.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit