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The Ultimate Guide: Where to Buy Starbucks Been There Mugs

So, you’re on the hunt for a Starbucks Been There mug, that quintessential souvenir (or collectible obsession) showcasing your travels or love for a particular place? You’re not alone. These mugs have captured the hearts of millions, and finding them can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. Here’s the definitive answer to your burning question:

Where to buy Starbucks Been There mugs?

The most reliable and direct source is, unsurprisingly, Starbucks locations themselves. However, availability varies wildly. Your best bet is to visit Starbucks stores located within the specific region or city featured on the mug. Think a mug emblazoned with the Golden Gate Bridge? Head to Starbucks stores in San Francisco. Visiting Disney World? Scour the Starbucks locations within the park and surrounding Disney Springs area.

However, if you are not able to travel to the location that’s depicted on the mug, you can try the following places:

Beyond brick-and-mortar Starbucks, the secondary market offers a wider (though often pricier) range of options. eBay and Mercari are the dominant players here. Expect to pay a premium, especially for rare or discontinued mugs. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can also yield hidden gems, particularly from locals clearing out their collections. Online retailers specializing in collectibles sometimes carry these mugs. Keep an eye on sites like Amazon (though stock is infrequent and prices fluctuate). Finally, check resale shops and antique stores: sometimes lucky people stumble upon one in such shops.

Diving Deeper: Finding Your Perfect Been There Mug

While knowing where to look is half the battle, understanding the nuances of availability and pricing is crucial for a successful hunt. Here’s a more in-depth look at each avenue:

Starbucks Locations: The Source (When They Have It)

Regional Availability: Been There mugs are primarily stocked in the regions they represent. A mug for Chicago will be easiest to find in, well, Chicago. This is because Starbucks designs them to be sold as souvenirs for tourists and locals alike.
In-Store Inventory Fluctuations: Even within the correct region, inventory is unpredictable. Mugs sell quickly, and restocking schedules vary. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find the mug on your first try.
Disney Parks Exception: Disney mugs are a special case. They are exclusively sold within Disney parks and Disney Springs. You won’t find them at your local Starbucks.
“Been There Series Across the Globe” Mugs: These mugs are typically found in international Starbucks locations.

The Secondary Market: Embrace the Hunt

eBay: The King of Collectibles: eBay boasts the widest selection. Use specific keywords like “Starbucks Been There Mug [City Name]” and carefully review photos and descriptions. Be wary of scams and pay close attention to seller ratings.
Mercari: A Rising Contender: Mercari is similar to eBay but often has a more user-friendly interface and lower fees. You might find slightly better deals here, but the selection may be smaller.
Facebook Marketplace & Craigslist: Local Treasures (and Risks): These platforms offer the potential for great deals from local sellers. However, inspect the mug in person before purchasing to avoid damage or counterfeits.
Amazon: Sporadic Availability, Volatile Prices: Amazon sometimes carries Been There mugs, but stock is inconsistent, and prices can be inflated. Always compare prices with other sources before buying.
Online Collectibles Retailers: Websites specializing in collectible items may occasionally stock Been There mugs, especially retired designs. Search for “Starbucks Collectibles” or similar terms.
Thrift Stores & Antique Shops: The Needle in a Haystack: Finding a Been There mug in a thrift store is rare, but it does happen. The prices will likely be significantly lower than online, making it worth checking out.

Arming Yourself with Knowledge: Tips for a Successful Search

Know Your Mug: Identify the exact name and design of the mug you’re seeking. There are subtle variations, especially within the “You Are Here” and “Been There” series.
Patience is Key: Finding a specific mug, especially a rare one, can take time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find it immediately.
Set a Budget: Been There mugs can range from a few dollars (at retail) to hundreds (for rare designs). Decide how much you’re willing to spend before you start your search.
Verify Authenticity: Be cautious of counterfeit mugs, especially when buying online. Check for official Starbucks markings and compare the design to authentic examples.
Consider Condition: Examine photos carefully for any chips, cracks, or fading. Ask the seller for additional photos if needed.
Factor in Shipping Costs: Shipping can significantly increase the total cost of a mug, especially if it’s coming from a distant location.
Join Online Communities: Join Facebook groups or online forums dedicated to Starbucks collectibles. You can get tips from other collectors, find mugs for sale, and even trade with fellow enthusiasts.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. Are Been There mugs still being produced?

Yes, Starbucks continues to release new Been There mugs, primarily focusing on specific cities, states, and regions. However, older designs are often discontinued.

2. What’s the difference between “You Are Here” and “Been There” mugs?

The “You Are Here” series preceded the “Been There” series. “You Are Here” mugs typically feature a simpler design with fewer details, while “Been There” mugs are more intricate and detailed, incorporating local landmarks and cultural elements.

3. How much do Been There mugs typically cost at Starbucks?

At retail, Been There mugs typically cost between $16.95 and $18.95 USD, although prices can vary slightly depending on the location and any special promotions.

4. How can I tell if a Been There mug is rare?

Rarity is determined by several factors, including the age of the mug, the region it represents (some regions were produced in smaller quantities), and whether it was a limited edition or promotional item. Discontinued mugs are generally more valuable.

5. Are there Been There mugs for countries outside the US?

Yes! Starbucks produces Been There mugs for numerous countries around the world. These can typically be found in the Starbucks locations within those countries.

6. Do Starbucks employees get discounts on Been There mugs?

Yes, Starbucks partners (employees) typically receive a discount on merchandise, including Been There mugs. The specific discount percentage may vary.

7. Can I order Been There mugs online directly from Starbucks?

No, Starbucks typically does not sell Been There mugs online through their official website. They are primarily available in physical stores.

8. What’s the best way to protect my Been There mug collection?

Store your mugs in a safe place where they won’t be knocked over or damaged. Avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to prevent scratches. Consider displaying them in a glass cabinet or on shelves with secure supports.

9. Are there counterfeit Been There mugs? How can I spot them?

Yes, unfortunately, counterfeit Been There mugs do exist. Look for inconsistencies in the design, poor print quality, and missing or incorrect Starbucks markings. Compare the mug to authentic examples online before purchasing.

10. Do Been There mugs ever go on sale?

Occasionally, Starbucks may offer promotions or discounts on select merchandise, including Been There mugs. Keep an eye out for sales events and special offers.

11. What is the most expensive Been There mug ever sold?

The exact price of the most expensive Been There mug ever sold is difficult to pinpoint, as prices fluctuate on the secondary market. However, rare and highly sought-after mugs, such as those from discontinued series or limited-edition releases, can fetch prices of hundreds of dollars.

12. I can’t travel but I really want to find some Been There mugs. What are my options?

Your best bet is to rely on the secondary market – eBay, Mercari, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. Set up alerts for the specific mugs you want, and be patient. You might have to pay a premium, but it’s the easiest way to acquire mugs from locations you can’t visit. Don’t forget to check for online retailers and resale shops too!