Things To Do

Unclaimed Baggage

509 W Willow St, Scottsboro, 35768, US

Rating: 4.0 ★ (4793 ratings)

Details

A sprawling 50,000-square-foot store in Scottsboro, Alabama, stands as the nation's only retailer of lost airline luggage, a treasure trove born from less than 0.03 percent of all checked bags that airlines can't reunite with their owners. Since 1970, when Doyle Owens first purchased a load of unclaimed bags from a bus line, this unique destination has grown to attract over a million visitors annually. Thousands of new items are added daily, ranging from everyday clothing, shoes, and books to unexpected finds like designer goods, electronics, and even sporting equipment. Shoppers delight in the thrill of discovery, sifting through racks of Lululemon, perusing shelves of laptops and headphones, or stumbling upon a forgotten wedding dress.

The journey of each item is a story in itself; after a 90-day search by the airlines, compensated bags are purchased by Unclaimed Baggage. Here, contents are meticulously sorted for resale, repurposing, or recycling, with clothing laundered and electronics wiped clean before hitting the sales floor. Beyond the vast retail space, which feels like a bustling, well-organized thrift store, visitors can explore the Unclaimed Baggage Museum. This special exhibit showcases some of the most peculiar and valuable discoveries over the decades, including ancient Egyptian artifacts, a 40.95-carat emerald, and even Hoggle from the movie "Labyrinth." For those needing a break from treasure hunting, an on-site café offers refreshments.

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Location

Opening Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

Contact

+1 256-259-1525

Comments

Roberta Peek

8 Jan 2026

4.0 ★

I heard about this place on TV somewhere years back and finally was able to visit. I went on a Monday so it wasn't busy at all. It's a cute concept of selling the unclaimed baggage from all over the place from bus, train, and plane travel. Plus unclaimed cargo and I believe closeouts and liquidations from various stores like Old Navy and TJMaxx type stores. Lots of clothes for men, women and children. Ton of jewelry and headphones beyond belief. Luggage and purses. Plus a whole section of books. I personally didn't find anything to purchase but enjoyed browsing. Took advantage of the photo ops and liked the various displays of unique items they've acquired along the way and the museum is cool to see. I also walked across the parking lot to their Bargain Basement which is 3 levels of discounted items. First floor women's; mostly clothing, then a ramp down takes you to the men's section and onto a room with shoes and socks, through there you reach miscellaneous items a bit of hodge podge of items, travel mugs, more headphones, travel pillows, and a bunch of stuff that reminds me of Big Lots. This is also where you'll find the fitting rooms. If nothing else, it's worth a stop if you're in the area or driving close by to just stretch your legs and look around at all the fun things. It's a pretty neat place.

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