Fresh Finds & Mystery Jewelry: Inside Downtown Tempe’s Newest Addition Lizard Head Trading Co.
Categories NEW IN TOWN SHOPPING
There’s something new on Mill Avenue and it’s already becoming a go-to for anyone who loves the thrill of a good find.
Lizard Head Trading Co. has officially opened in Downtown Tempe, bringing a fresh take on shopping that feels right at home here. This isn’t just another retail stop. It’s a buy, sell, trade experience built around sustainability, creativity and the idea that great style doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet.
At its core, Lizard Head is about extending the life of clothing and giving every piece a second (or third) story. The shop is thoughtfully curated with everything from everyday staples to standout pieces, making it easy to step outside the fast fashion cycle and into something more intentional.
What makes Lizard Head stand out is how it connects buyers and sellers. You can bring in pieces from your own closet and walk out with cash or trade them in for something new that you may not have sought out. It’s simple, rewarding, and it keeps great clothing in circulation within our community.
They’ve created a model that works for everyone involved. Prices stay approachable for shoppers, while sellers still get value for their pieces. It’s a cycle that feels good and does good, especially in a district like Downtown Tempe where local support goes a long way.
Another layer that makes this shop special is its employee-owned structure. Through profit sharing, the team behind the counter is directly invested in the success of the store. When you shop here, you’re supporting people who are genuinely part of what they’re building.
Steps from Arizona State University, Lizard Head fits right into the rhythm of downtown. It’s a spot to pop into between classes, swing by on a weekend or make part of a full Mill Avenue day.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of brands and styles that span outdoor gear, vintage gems and trend-forward pieces. Think familiar names like Patagonia, Zara, Nike, Anthropologie, alongside one-of-a-kind finds you won’t see anywhere else.
If you’re exploring new places to shop in Downtown Tempe, this is one to add to your list.
From Mary, ASU Student & DTA Intern
Hey ASU students, if you are looking for fresh things to do in Downtown Tempe after a long day of classes or over the weekend, you have to check out the newest addition to Mill Avenue.
So close to the ASU campus, Lizard Head Trading Co. is a place that is going to change the way you think about your wardrobe. Their motto is exactly what we need: buy, sell, trade.
As a student and a dedicated thrifter myself, I know that shopping secondhand is a total game changer for our budgets. It feels so good to find that perfect piece without breaking the bank. But shopping secondhand is more than just the price tag. ASU is a community that really values sustainability, and so many of us already love the vintage and clothing trade scene, which is why Lizard Head fits in so naturally.
At Lizard Head, you are not just a consumer. You are helping keep clothes in circulation and out of the trash, which makes shopping here feel even better.
I think this is easily one of the best new places to shop in Tempe because of the variety. They have everything from jewelry and accessories to a curated mix of men’s and women’s clothing. I am personally obsessed with their mystery jewelry gumball machine — it’s such a fun and unique way to find a little treasure.
Whatever your vibe is…Y2K, grunge, or something more flirty or sporty, there is a piece waiting for you. They carry brands we all love like Zara, Patagonia, The North Face, Nike, and Anthropologie.
My favorite part of the experience is grabbing my friends and spending the afternoon styling each other. Shopping near campus just got a whole lot better, and Lizard Head is so much more than just a store. It’s a space to express yourself while doing something good for the planet.
Why We think It’s Worth the Stop
Lizard Head Trading Co. brings something new to the Downtown Tempe retail mix. It’s community-driven, easy to engage with and rooted in a bigger purpose without feeling heavy.
Whether you’re clearing out your closet, hunting for your next favorite piece or just looking for something different to do on Mill Avenue, this is a spot that delivers.