Over the past decade, the popularity and demand for LEGO have soared. What was once a building toy primarily for children has now captivated teens and adults alike. LEGO sets have evolved, offering more detail, utility, and variety than ever before.

Some sets are designed for interactive play, while others serve as stunning display pieces, such as dioramas or high-value collectibles. Additionally, a growing category includes lifestyle accessories like wall decorations, plants, and flowers that seamlessly blend into home decor.

With hundreds of LEGO sets available, ranging in piece count, theme, and price, buyers often face two main challenges: finding the desired set and securing it at a reasonable cost. A common issue is that many sets are "retired." LEGO regularly phases out its sets, even popular ones, to introduce new releases. This practice fuels a resale market where prices can be inflated by 2 to 3 times the original cost.

It's also undeniable that LEGO is inherently expensive and has become increasingly so in recent years. Consider the massive, 7541-piece Star Wars Millennium Falcon set from 2017, which was priced at $800—a price well above the typical '10 cents per piece' rate. Today, the same set costs $850.

To navigate these challenges, being a smart and meticulous consumer is key. Here are the best places to shop for LEGO sets in 2025, along with optimal times to find deals.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets Online

LEGO Insiders Program### LEGO Store

4See it at LEGOBest Discounts### Amazon

2See it at AmazonAccepts LEGO Insider Points### Target

1See it at TargetExclusive Deals### Walmart

0See it at Walmart

The official LEGO Store is the first and most obvious choice for online shopping, offering the widest selection. Sets can be sorted by theme, price, release date, and customer rating. The store boasts excellent customer service and features the LEGO Insiders program, which is free to join and offers numerous benefits.

Members can purchase sets before they are released to the general public and receive free sets as incentives for their purchases. Some sets are exclusive to the LEGO Store and unavailable from third-party retailers. The most attractive feature is the point system, where every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, and 130 points are worth $1, effectively giving you a 5% return on your spending. There are also periods throughout the year when you can earn double points, further enhancing the program's value.

For other online options, Amazon, Target, and Walmart provide competitive alternatives. Although they lack the exclusivity and point system of the LEGO Store, they often offer modest discounts on many sets. The LEGO Store typically maintains full retail prices, except during specific sales aimed at clearing out inventory.

When deciding where to buy, it's crucial to compare the potential savings. For instance, would you prefer a 10% discount at Target.com (which accepts LEGO Insider points but at a less favorable rate) or pay full price at the LEGO Store for future discounts and exclusive sets?

Where to Buy Retired Sets Online

For those seeking retired sets, unofficial online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are the go-to sources. Be prepared for higher prices and engage directly with sellers to negotiate the best deal possible. Always shop around to ensure you're getting the best price.

Where to Buy LEGO Sets in Stores

Physical stores offer another avenue for purchasing LEGO sets. While the selection might not be as extensive as online, many prefer the hands-on experience and personalized service.

Visiting a LEGO Store in person provides the same advantages as shopping online, including the LEGO Insiders program and its point system. These stores also offer interactive experiences such as LEGO building stations and minifigure customization areas.

Target and Walmart have dedicated LEGO sections in their stores, and each purchase should be weighed against what's available at the LEGO Store. Gamestop occasionally stocks gaming-themed LEGO sets, while Barnes and Noble offers lifestyle sets, smaller impulse buys, and Harry Potter-themed sets, aligning with the popularity of the franchise. Discounts are less common in smaller outlets, but it's always worth checking.

One last note: If you're after a recently retired set, physical stores might still have stock. Even after LEGO officially retires a set, some third-party retailers may continue to sell them. While it's not guaranteed, it's worth a look.

When Do LEGO Sets Go on Sale?

LEGO sets rarely go on sale due to high demand, with the company preferring to retire sets rather than discount them. However, there are specific times when sales are more likely.

LEGO celebrates May 4 (Star Wars Day) by offering double Insider points on Star Wars sets and March 10 (Mario Day) with similar deals in partnership with Nintendo. Keep an eye on anniversaries related to third-party franchises for potential promotions.

Clearance deals at box-stores are more common at the beginning of the year when LEGO retires old sets and introduces new ones, prompting retailers to refresh their inventory.

The holiday season, particularly Black Friday and Cyber Monday, is prime time for deep discounts. Amazon Prime Days in July and October also present good opportunities for LEGO deals. Stay alert for any upcoming sales events that might feature LEGO promotions.