This place doesn’t just feel big—it feels infinite.
Boomerangs by More Than Words in Cambridge pulls you in fast, then refuses to let go. Aisles stretch, corners multiply, and every step brings a fresh jolt of “wait, how did I miss that?” It’s the kind of thrift store where time slips away while your curiosity stays wide awake.
This isn’t a quick pop-in situation. Clothing racks run deep with personality, shelves overflow with odd finds, and hidden gems seem to appear right when you think you’ve seen it all.
One minute you’re flipping through jackets, the next you’re holding a lamp you didn’t know you needed but suddenly can’t live without.
These 10 standout finds show why this store feels endless in the best way. It’s part treasure hunt, part style experiment, and part joyful chaos.
Walk in with an open mind, comfortable shoes, and the expectation that you’ll leave smiling—and probably carrying more than planned.
How to plan your visit and avoid crowds
Timing can make your Boomerangs run feel relaxed instead of rushed. Since the store closes at 6 PM and opens at 10 AM Tuesday through Sunday, arriving near opening gives you first pick and cooler heads.
Weekdays are calmer than Saturdays, and a late midweek afternoon often feels spacious.
If you drive, build in time for street parking near Massachusetts Ave.
Bring a hands-free bag and wear layers because there are no changing rooms. You can still gauge fit by comparing measurements, so a small tape measure helps.
Try lightweight tops over a fitted base layer to approximate shape. Ask staff about return policies posted in-store for added peace of mind.
Map out sections before diving deep. Start with the shoe wall, then sweep sweaters and jackets, and finish with books and home goods.
This route keeps your energy high for categories that move quickly. The renovated walk-through flow reduces congestion, so follow the loop naturally.
Finally, check the website for any updates and mission highlights. A quick scan of reviews sets realistic expectations on pricing tiers.
Keep cashless payment ready to move through checkout efficiently. With a plan, you can savor that endless-in-the-best-way feeling without the stress.
Navigating the renovated layout like a pro
The renovation gave Boomerangs breathable aisles and a purposeful walk-through. Start at the front racks for first-glance gems, then glide along the central path to shoes and books.
Lighting varies slightly across sections, so step near the front windows to examine color and fabric. Mirrors are plentiful, helpful when fitting rooms are not available.
Foot traffic naturally pools near the shoe mountain and checkout. Loop around the perimeter if you feel stuck because restocked carts sometimes appear along edges.
Follow signage that nudges you between departments without bottlenecks. When in doubt, pause and scan top to bottom so you do not miss premium brands tucked mid-rack.
Organized does not mean predictable. Jackets and sweaters live near seasonal demand, while books rotate frequently.
I like to sweep once quickly, then revisit after a few minutes. Staff are approachable if you need help reading tags or locating sizes.
Before leaving, revisit the first rack you touched. Your eye acclimates and suddenly that muted cashmere pops.
Peek behind endcaps, where quality outliers occasionally land. The flow is designed for discovery, but a thoughtful route turns wandering into winning.
Scoring sweaters and jackets that last
Reviews are not kidding about sweaters here, especially cashmere and heavier knits. Prices cluster around that sweet mid-range, great for coats and jackets.
Start by feeling fabrics rather than reading tags because hands catch quality faster. Run fingers along seams to check for reknits or stress.
Hold pieces to light to spot moth bites or sheen from pilling. If pilling is minor, a fabric shaver rescues it instantly.
For linings, tug gently at armholes to test integrity. Zipper teeth should align and slide without catching.
Try the drape test over your base layer since there are no fitting rooms. Measure shoulders and chest beforehand and carry a small tape for quick checks.
Look for pure fibers or high mixed content, like cashmere-wool blends. Neutral colors fly out first, but jewel tones often hide deeper in racks.
Finally, check care labels for dry-clean requirements. Many wools hand-wash beautifully with gentle detergent, which saves money.
Ask staff about newly rolled racks because fresh sweaters appear throughout the day. With patience and touch-first searching, you will leave with warmth that feels like a small victory.
Finding shoes from basics to luxury
Boomerangs is known for a mountain of shoes, and the variety shows. Expect everything from practical ankle boots to surprise luxury heels.
Scan shelves left to right, then bottom to top, since high-value pairs sometimes sit low. Bring thin socks for quick slip-on checks near mirrors.
Condition is everything. Look at heel taps, toe wear, and insoles for impressions or peeling.
Flex soles gently for cracks and verify stitching where uppers meet midsoles. Suede responds well to brushing, so minor scuffs should not scare you off.
Designer finds pop up, but comfort brands can be the stealth wins. Remove insoles to assess odor and structure, then disinfect at home.
If you need a specific size, ask staff because back stock occasionally rotates. Pair shoes with a coat or bag to visualize outfits before committing.
Prices are competitive for quality tiers, not rock-bottom. You pay for curation and condition, which still beats retail by miles.
Check again before checkout because staff restock while you browse. Leave space in your bag because shoes are the items you did not plan for but happily adopt.
Hunting books, records, and media
The book section is compact but surprisingly curated, leaning toward recent and relevant titles. Prices can feel a bit higher than big-bin shops, but selection saves time.
Check spines for academic press runs, local authors, and hardcover upgrades. I like to sweep each shelf twice, once for titles and again for condition.
Look for clean page edges, intact dust jackets, and tight binding. Flip to the index in nonfiction to gauge usefulness quickly.
Media like DVDs and the occasional vinyl appear too, rotating with donations. Cambridge readers donate well, so you may catch contemporary fiction and essay collections.
Pull a mix you will actually read, not just admire. Weigh the stack and pare down to essentials.
If you collect, check first editions and print lines quietly near the window light. Staff keep the area tidy, which helps you scan faster.
When you are done, pair a book with a mug from home goods for a giftable bundle. Keep an eye out for records tucked near endcaps.
Even if you leave empty-handed today, inventory changes often. It is a section worth revisiting on every trip.
Women’s clothing racks without fitting rooms
No fitting rooms can feel limiting, but you can still shop smart. Wear a fitted tee and leggings to layer tops and skirts over.
Bring a soft measuring tape with your shoulder, waist, hip, and inseam notes. Compare garment flat measurements for fast decisions.
Racks skew toward women’s items with solid variety. Skirts and pants may hang in ways that obscure cuts, so remove a hanger to read silhouettes.
Hold waistbands to your body at natural waist or high hip. For dresses, check underarm seams and zippers for stress.
Prioritize quality fabric over trends when unsure. Natural fibers drape better and endure laundering.
Inspect hems for previous alterations that could help or hinder fit. If in doubt, photo the garment tag and return after measuring at home.
Prices trend reasonable for heavier garments, less so for tiny basics. Balance cost by choosing pieces that elevate multiple outfits.
Staff are kind, so ask about return windows and size guidance. With small hacks, you will leave with items that feel tailor-made without a fitting room.
Men’s finds and how to spot quality quickly
Men’s racks can feel lighter, so efficiency wins. Start with outerwear and knitwear, then move to shirts and denim.
Touch test for dense weaves, sturdy ribbing, and smooth zippers. Look for chain-stitched hems on jeans, gussets under arms, and thick horn or corozo buttons.
Brands matter less than construction. Flip seams inside to check overlock neatness and seam allowance width.
Wool sport coats should have even shoulder padding and responsive canvassing. For shirts, align stripes at side seams and plackets to confirm quality control.
Denim tells stories in whiskers and fades. Choose sturdy hardware and straight grain lines on the leg.
If a tag is faded, measure the thigh and hem to estimate fit. Bring your favorite measurements written down and compare quickly.
Prices sit nicely for heavier pieces and statement jackets. Tailoring a near-miss often costs less than retail by a mile.
Ask staff if any men’s restock just rolled out because timing matters. With a practiced eye, the smaller section still yields keepers.
Home goods and little giftables
Home goods rotate fast at Boomerangs, and the sweet spot is mugs, frames, and small decor. Cambridge donors bring quirky pieces that feel personal without being pricey.
Inspect ceramics for hairline cracks by tapping lightly and listening for a dull note. For frames, check backing tabs and glass clarity.
Mirrors show up often, and they disappear quickly. Examine edges for chips and assess weight for sturdiness.
If you are walking or on transit, measure your carrying capacity before committing. A microfiber cloth helps you preview shine through store lighting.
Giftables are easy wins. Pair a pretty mug with a secondhand book and a handwritten note.
Look for small vases, trays, and candleholders with character. Skip items with strong odors or hard-to-clean textures unless you love a project.
Prices are fair for curated quality. The selection is smaller than clothing, but it turns enough to reward repeat visits.
Ask about any seasonal displays near checkout. You leave with pieces that make home feel thoughtful without overspending.
Price expectations and value math
Think of Boomerangs prices as curation-driven rather than rock-bottom. Sweaters and jackets hover in that satisfying value lane, while tiny basics can feel less compelling.
Shoes scale with condition and brand, and books skew slightly higher for quality. The tradeoff is time saved and stronger hit rates.
Do quick value math. Compare against retail and resale platforms on your phone.
If an item is 70 percent under new price and condition is excellent, that is a green light. For repairable pieces, add the cost of cleaning or tailoring to your decision.
Bundle smartly. Choose a hero piece, then add one or two staples that complete outfits.
If a price gives you pause, park it and loop back after finishing the store. You will know if it still sparks.
Remember, your purchase supports a youth-empowering mission. Paying a few dollars more than bargain-basement shops can still be a net win.
Check tags for color promos or rack-specific deals. Value at Boomerangs includes impact, quality, and time saved.
Mission, hours, and practical details
Boomerangs by More Than Words blends treasure hunting with a clear social mission. Your dollars help power youth who are learning business skills through real retail work.
That purpose shows in the tidy layout, friendly service, and consistent curation. Shopping here feels like voting for community with your wallet.
Find the store at 563 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139 near Central Square. Hours run 10 AM to 6 PM Tuesday through Sunday, closed Mondays.
Call +1 617-749-4278 if you need a quick stock or policy question. Check the website for updates and broader mission info.
The rating sits around 4.4 stars across many reviews. Shoppers love the organization, prices for quality, and especially the shoes and sweaters.
Some note the lack of fitting rooms and occasional size-display quirks. Most agree the renovated space is bright, open, and easy to browse.
Bring reusable bags and small measurements, plan for street parking, and expect frequent restocks. If you donate, ask about guidelines so your items help efficiently.
Even a short visit can yield a find and a smile. Leave time to do one final lap before checkout.