Sanford & Son Antiques! — Attraction in Tacoma

Nestled within the vibrant Theater District of Tacoma, lies a portal to the past, a three-story cathedral of curiosities known as Sanford and Son Antiques. This place isn’t just a store; it’s a journey through time and space, curated with the care of Cheryl and Alan Gorsuch, who’ve turned this former railyard relic into the largest singly owned antique shop in the Pacific Northwest.

As you step through the doors, the scent of old books and the subtle creak of floorboards transport you. The top floor, a veritable Aladdin’s cave, is where you’ll find an Egyptian sarcophagus keeping company with cultural artifacts and stained glass windows that have seen more sunsets than any of us ever will.

Descending the grand marble staircase to the lower levels, you’re greeted by over 20 small businesses, each a world unto itself. Vintage clothing boutiques brush shoulders with art galleries, while tattoo parlors whisper secrets to personal care shops. It’s a marketplace, yes, but also a community, a living museum where every item has a story.

The patrons? They’re as eclectic as the merchandise. Some come seeking the nostalgia of a bygone era, others for the thrill of the hunt. Reviews speak of fair prices and the joy of exploration, though some whisper of treasures priced just beyond reach. But that’s the game, isn’t it? The dance between what’s desired and what’s attainable.

Sanford and Son is more than an antique shop. It’s a testament to the enduring allure of history, a reminder that every object, every bauble, every trinket is a chapter in humanity’s ongoing saga. And in this corner of Tacoma, the story is still being written.

So, if you find yourself with a free afternoon and a curious heart, take a trip to Sanford and Son. Who knows what pieces of history will call out to you, begging to be a part...

Our Non-Profit was recently given two large jeweler's cases as a donation to sell. On June 1, at approximately 4:40 p.m., I called this establishment and politely introduced myself and the organization which I represent. I was about to explain why I called when the person who answered rudely interrupted and told me, "I don't know who this is, but I'm just answering the phone and we don't take advertisements!" after which she promptly hung up. I called back and asked to speak to the manager and the person answering the phone identified herself as the manager. It was the same person I spoke to previously and when I explained that I was calling about the cases and that I felt I shouldn't have been treated so rudely, I was told that I shouldn't have called acting like a phone solicitor! She was not only impatient and rude, she continued to insist that her behavior was my fault. She didn't even have the grace to apologize for hanging up! I don't know who owns this store, but the person answering your phone and greeting your customers is the face of your business. Your manager is not only rude, she is unprofessional. Do yourself a favor, buy her a book on business etiquette....

I used to really enjoy coming to this antique shop and buying cameras from Golden Hour Vintage Camera Shop. However, my recent visits have been disappointing and uncomfortable. An employee by the name of Annette has repeatedly made me feel unwelcome by closely watching me, telling me they monitor the cameras to make sure I’m not stealing, and even asking to check my bag before I leave the store.

On another visit, I was told I needed to place my bag in a bin so I wouldn’t steal—despite the fact that it was my camera bag with my equipment, which I wasn’t comfortable leaving unattended.

I believe it’s wrong to profile customers and assume that they're going to steal something without any cause. It creates an unwelcoming and distrustful environment that has made me reconsider coming back. I’ve supported this shop in the past, but these experiences have left me feeling unwelcome and disrespected."

I will not continue to support a business where I’m constantly being watched and surveilled. As a returning customer, I expect to be treated with respect—not suspicion. It’s disappointing, and it’s not the kind of environment I choose to spend...