Birmingham’s free finds: 7 places to trade, take + leave something behind
Reading time: 4 minutes
Looking for a free way to explore Birmingham? There are neighborhood libraries, art swaps, comic exchanges, trinket chests and more that offer small surprises and a sense of community along the way.
From card swaps, art installations and trade boxes, here’s a list of seven spots where you can discover hidden treasures.
1. BHM Trinket Trade
In April, Birmingham’s Maegan McCormick installed a vibrant green trinket trading box on the side of The Electric in Avondale. Inside, you can find everything from toys and playing cards to posters and local art.
If you want to stop by and find something fun for yourself, there’s a few guidelines to keep in mind:
- Small items only (palm or pocket sized)
- No broken or dirty objects
- No food, candy, drinks or toiletries
- Family-friendly objects only
- If you don’t have a trinket, just bring one next time
- Keep the latches closed when not using so all objects stay safe + dry
Check it out for yourself:
- Location: 4426 4th Ave. S.
- BHM Trinket Trade: Instagram
2. Free Little Art Gallery
Birmingham’s newest trading post, the Free Little Art Gallery opened in Southside to invite local artists and community members to make, view, take and leave art.
Located right off the sidewalk on 16th Avenue South, stop by for a unique experience and a look at what Birmingham artists have to offer.
- Location: 1317 16th Ave S.
- Free Little Art Gallery: Instagram
3. The Alabama PokeSwap
On April 11, a box opened right off of 1st Avenue North, where community members swap Pokémon cards. Long-term collectors, new fans and kids are invited to take a card and leave a card for someone else to enjoy.
Tip: Sign the guest book before you leave! It’s located to the left of the display.
- Location: 3401 1st Ave. N.
- The Alabama PokeSwap: Website | Instagram
4. Stooping Bham
From furniture to plants, exercise equipment and more, this account frequently posts updates on free items located around the Birmingham area.
Tip: Items go quickly! We recommend turning on post notifications to stay up to date on recent findings.
- Stooping Bham: Instagram
5. Free Art Bham
Started by local artist Ashley Denise, Free Art Birmingham invites other local artists to create art and leave it out for the public to take home. Artists of any skill level are invited to participate—you can drop art off yourself, or Free Art Birmingham can drop it off for you.
The team drops clues and updates on their social media, and if you’re the first to find it, then it’s yours!
Tip: Headed south? Due to the success here in Birmingham, a second chapter in Panama City, Florida, recently opened! Check social media for updates.
6. Magic City Art Mart
Located inside MAKEbm in Avondale, this donation-based market offers free art supplies to community members on the first Saturday of every month
Interested in donating? The mart also accepts donations, including:
- Paint + paint accessories
- Drawing tools
- Fabric
- Art books
- Storage + displays
Tip: Appointments are required to shop! Send a direct message on Instagram to set one up.
7. Little Free Libraries
From Mountain Brook to Westover and even Trussville, free library installations are all over Birmingham. Take a book, leave a book and help expand book access globally to library exchanges.
To view the full list and map of Birmingham locations, or to start a new library, visit the official website.
Did we miss anything? Reach out or tag us @bhamnow to let us know where else to find free goodies in Birmingham. Happy hunting!
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