Bargains between the bluffs along the Great River Road
Take one of Wisconsin’s most scenic drives and combine it with deals galore, and you get the 100-Mile Garage Sale. Hosted each year in early May, the route extends from Fountain City to Prescott on the Wisconsin side of the Mississippi River, with more sales on the Minnesota side.
The event doesn’t have an official host, rather it’s supported by thousands of participating community members on both sides of the Mighty Mississippi, including members of Riverland Energy Cooperative.
On the Minnesota side, the sale is promoted by Visit Winona. Executive Director Kate Carlson said that some vendors have been involved for more than 18 years, and there is no official count of sales, but she estimates that they number into the thousands, hosted by residents, businesses, and entire neighborhoods.
Carlson said the 100-Mile Garage Sale achieves three things. It celebrates spring, encourages people to clean out their homes and repurpose goods, and draws visitors to the scenic Mississippi River towns.
“At its core, it’s about turning a traditional garage sale into a shared, multi-town experience that highlights the charm of river communities,” said Carlson.
She notes a definite boost to local communities through an increase in tourism; increased business for local shops, restaurants, and lodging; and community engagement through neighbors collaborating and promoting their sales.
More than just the sales
Over the years, the 100-Mile Garage Sale has grown from a small cluster of sales into a highly anticipated tradition. Many communities along the route now treat the weekend as a mini-festival, with food trucks, church bake sales, and local organizations hosting fundraisers to take advantage of the influx of visitors. Some towns even coordinate special events or extended business hours to welcome bargain hunters.
For many residents of these river towns, the sale is more than a chance to declutter—it’s a way to showcase their communities. Visitors discover the historic main streets, scenic overlooks, and hidden gems that make the area special. The Mississippi River Valley’s natural beauty becomes part of the experience, turning a day of shopping into so much more.
The Fun is in the Hunt
Carlson said that you can find almost anything, and that is part of the fun. Treasures can include antiques, quirky collectibles, and entire collections of tools or decades-old décor.
“You truly get a treasure-hunt atmosphere where anything can show up,” she said.
And it’s not just about what you find, but who you hunt with.
“Groups of friends and families travel from multiple states to reunite annually during the sale—like a group of sisters from five different states who meet each year with a mission to find the most unusual items,” said Carlson. “It’s not just shopping; it’s a tradition, reunion, and shared adventure rolled into one.”
Tips for First-Timers
Carlson offers a few tried-and-true tips for first-time event attendees. First, she suggests starting early for the best selection on Thursday or Friday. Next, remember to bring cash, as most sellers don’t take cards. Also, be flexible with route planning, as not all sellers are on the Google map. Finally, allow more time than you think you’ll need. “You won’t make all 100 miles.”
Carlson also said to bring a friend and plenty of trunk space. Take the drive and look for signs, balloons, or ribbons, indicating your next treasure trove of a sale.
Whether you come for the bargains, the scenery, or a little adventure, the 100‑Mile Garage Sale offers a little something for everyone. It’s a celebration of community and the magic of the Mississippi in spring.—Dana Kelroy, photos courtesy of the 100-Mile Garage Sale
The 100-Mile Garage Sale runs from May 7-10, 2026, with a route running along the Mississippi River from Hastings, Minn., to Winona, Minn., and Prescott, Wis., to Fountain City, Wis. More info is available on Facebook @Official100MileGarageSale. Most sales run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.