This holiday shop is now CLOSED
The large red-barn-like structure that houses Wayside Antiques and Christmas Center is located just where the name implies – by the wayside... of I-75 that is. It is filled with a blend of old and new that come together in such a perfect setting that before you know it you're humming I'll Be Home for Christmas – for indeed it does feel like home.From the moment you enter the door into the foyer, the sights, sounds, and scents of the holidays greet and delight you. On the lower level an endless display of decorations sit on gleaming shelves, are uniquely displayed atop antiques, and huddle into nooks and crannies. Ornaments hang in neat rows represented by every imaginable theme – from Victorian to the latest cartoon characters to Santa doing things you never thought you'd catch Santa doing. Collectibles also abound including Dept. 56, Boyd's Bears and many other holiday favorites.
Climb the stairs to the upper level and stroll through rooms overflowing with antiques dressed for the holidays. Dining rooms and living areas, a bedroom and kitchen, a gentlemen's room and garden area are all filled with your favorite memories and holiday fare. Overlooking the highway is a glassed in porch with a wonderful collection of nostalgia. And everything is decorated all year round as if the holidays were just around the corner.
Ladies, if your husband is urging you to hurry so you can "get back on the road and make some good time," send him upstairs to watch the model railroad tucked away in a little room. It is amazingly detailed and loads of fun to watch.
So, the next time you are traveling I-75, take a stretch-your-legs break from the road and browse awhile. You'll be glad you did. Just plan on arriving late at your destination because you'll never get your husband to leave.
Wayside Antiques and Christmas Center is located 18 miles south of Gainesville on I-75 at exit 72, and is seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
