LEGO's enduring appeal has expanded beyond children, captivating teens and adults alike. The complexity, functionality, and variety of LEGO sets have also dramatically increased. Sets now range from playful constructions to elaborate display pieces and even home décor items.
This surge in popularity, however, presents challenges for buyers. The sheer number of sets, combined with LEGO's practice of retiring sets to make way for new releases, often leads to difficulty finding desired sets at reasonable prices. The resale market frequently inflates prices by two or three times the original retail cost.
Adding to the challenge is LEGO's inherent cost. The price per piece has steadily climbed over the years. Consider the 7541-piece Millennium Falcon, released in 2017 for $800—already exceeding the typical "10 cents per piece" average. Today, it commands an even higher price.
Strategic shopping is key to navigating these hurdles. Below, we outline the best places to purchase LEGO sets in 2025, along with optimal times to find deals.
Online LEGO Shopping Destinations
LEGO Insiders Program### LEGO.com
4See it at LEGOBest Discounts### Amazon
2See it at AmazonAccepts LEGO Insider Points### Target
1See it at TargetExclusive Deals### Walmart
0See it at WalmartThe official LEGO online store offers the most comprehensive selection, easily searchable by theme, price, release date, and customer ratings. Excellent customer service and the LEGO Insiders program—offering various benefits including early access to sets, free incentives, and exclusive items—add to its appeal.
The LEGO Insiders points system is particularly attractive. Every dollar spent earns 6.5 points, equivalent to $1 for every 130 points, effectively a 5% reward. Double points promotions further enhance this value.
Amazon, Target, and Walmart also provide online options, though they lack the point system and exclusive sets of the official store. They often offer modest discounts, while the LEGO Store typically charges full price except for occasional inventory clearances. The choice often comes down to weighing potential discounts against the perks of the LEGO Insiders program.
AnswerSee ResultsSourcing Retired Sets Online
For retired sets, online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook are the only avenues. Expect significantly higher prices and engage in direct communication with sellers, haggling, and thorough comparison shopping to secure the best deals.
In-Store LEGO Shopping Options
While offering less variety than online, brick-and-mortar stores provide the benefit of hands-on examination before purchase.
The official LEGO Store mirrors the online store's advantages, including the Insiders program and interactive elements like building stations. Target and Walmart also carry LEGO, and a case-by-case comparison is recommended. Gamestop and Barnes & Noble offer select LEGO sets, primarily gaming-themed and lifestyle sets, respectively. Discounts are less common in smaller stores.
A final note: Brick-and-mortar stores may offer retired sets that haven't yet been removed from third-party retailer shelves. While unlikely, it's a possibility.
Optimal Times for LEGO Sales
Beyond standard box-store discounts, LEGO sales are infrequent. However, specific times offer better chances:
- May 4 (Star Wars Day) and March 10 (Mario Day): Double Insider points promotions are common.
- Beginning of the year: Clearance sales are more frequent as retailers refresh inventory after new releases.
- Holiday season (Black Friday, Cyber Monday) and Amazon Prime Days (July and October): Significant discounts are possible.