About St Albans Church - Opportunity Shop
Curated treasures with a charitable mission since 1955
At a Glance
About This Store
St. Alban's Opportunity Shop has been a cherished part of the Washington, DC community since 1955. This charming church-affiliated thrift store offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality merchandise, from everyday fashion to high-end designer pieces. Shoppers have discovered incredible finds including a silk Givenchy suit for just $12, gorgeous paintings, ceramics, silk scarves, and more. The shop is known for its clean and organized layout, despite its small size. While it doesn't carry furniture, the store makes up for it with an impressive rotating inventory of clothing, housewares, and unique treasures. The volunteers are consistently praised for being friendly, cheerful, and helpful, making every visit a delight. All proceeds support charitable causes, making every purchase feel meaningful. Prices are generally affordable, with reviewers mentioning items like t-shirts for just $1 each and designer dresses for $20. However, some note that Opportunity Shops tend to charge slightly more than regular thrift stores in exchange for higher quality, curated items. The only real drawbacks are the small store size—which can feel claustrophobic when busy—and occasional seasonal closures during the summer months. With convenient hours and a location right near the Washington National Cathedral, it makes for a lovely outing combining thrift shopping with a walk through the beautiful Bishop's Garden and coffee at the nearby cafe.
What Customers Love
Themes consistently mentioned across customer reviews.
- Friendly and cheerful volunteer staff
- High-quality curated merchandise
- Affordable prices and great finds
- Supports worthy charitable causes
- Unique treasures and hidden gems
What to Know Before You Go
Things visitors commonly mention so you can plan ahead.
- Small store can feel claustrophobic when busy
- Does not sell furniture
- May close seasonally during summer
- Slightly pricier than regular thrift stores
- Best quality donations are kept, rest donated elsewhere
💡 Pro Tip
Pair your visit with a walk through Bishop's Garden and coffee at the cathedral cafe.
Specialties & Brands
What They Specialize In
Brands Customers Found
Visit Planning
| Best time to visit | Weekday mornings |
| Worst time to visit | During end-of-season sales when the store becomes too crowded to enter |
| Restock pattern | Continuous |
| Sale schedule | End-of-season sales |
What Reviewers Praise
Payment Options
Follow Online
Hours of Operation
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM–3 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM–3 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM–3 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM–3 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an Opportunity Shop different from a regular thrift store?
According to reviewers, Opportunity Shops charge about twice as much as regular thrift stores but curate only the best donations and pass the rest to other thrift shops, with all proceeds supporting charitable causes.
Does the store accept donations year-round?
Donations are accepted, but one reviewer noted a temporary suspension until September 4th during the summer. It is recommended to check ahead before bringing donations.
Does the store sell furniture?
No. Multiple reviewers mention that while the shop has a good selection of items, furniture is not carried.
Plan Your Visit to St Albans Church - Opportunity Shop
Stop by to browse their curated selection or get in touch with any questions.