If you’re like me and you love thrifting and vintage shopping, raise your hand? I have two hands up because I love it that much. There’s something about seeing a piece of furniture, a collectible, or what might be considered “junk” from another era. It makes my heart go pitter-patter. Since Spring has sprung, with the weather warming up, it’s time to head out to some of the outdoor/indoor markets around the country. Seriously, several of these have been on my bucket list for the longest and some I hadn’t even heard of but I now want to go.
When I was a little girl, my parents used to take me to vintage stores and farms growing up in Connecticut. They would buy things and then turn them into something else. So, I’ve basically been indoctrinated into thrifting, DIY’ing and flipping mode.
Antique fairs and markets are not just places to find unique treasures; they’re also vibrant hubs of history, culture, and nostalgia. In the United States, these events showcase a rich tapestry of vintage items, from furniture to clothing to collectibles, drawing enthusiasts and collectors from far and wide. I have a list of the top 10 markets in the U.S. and in this blog post we’ll take a look at the first 5, each with its own charm and allure.
Rose Bowl Flea Market
Pasadena, California
Second Sunday of every month, rain or shine
Early VIP admission 5 am – $20 online only
General admission 9 am – $12 online only
Market usually closes at 3 pm
Dating back to the 1960s, the Rose Bowl Flea Market is one of the largest and most famous flea markets in the world. Held in the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium, it attracts vendors and shoppers from across the globe. With over 2,500 vendors, this market offers an unparalleled selection of vintage goods. The Rose Bowl Flea Market has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including “Pretty in Pink” and “Mad Men,” adding to its legendary status. I’ve also seen this many times on various HGTV shows, truly making this the “Granddaddy of them All”.
With the mountains in the background, this is one of the prettiest markets to walk around in. Plus you get the great California weather. They say the market opens rain or shine, but Toni Toni Toni said “It never rains in Southern California” right? If you know, you know.
Look at all these goodies!
Brimfield Antique Flea Market
Brimfield, Massachusetts
May 14-19, July 9-14, September 3-8 rain or shine
Monday – Saturday 8am-5pm, Sunday closes @ 3pm
Free to $5 per field
Parking $10-20 cash only
This is one market that’s on my bucket list since I’m from nearby Connecticut. Dating back to 1960, the Brimfield Antique Show is the oldest antique fair and has grown into one of the largest outdoor antique markets in the world. It spans over a mile along Route 20, a few miles north of the Connecticut border, featuring thousands of dealers offering everything from Victorian-era furniture to retro clothing. With around 5,000 vendors and over 50,000 visitors every year, this sprawling event promises endless discoveries. Legend has it that the show’s founder, Gordon Reid, started the event as a small gathering of friends trading antiques out of their station wagons!
Image via My Life on Kaydeross Creek
This is one market where the gates open and all of the people rush in so get here early so you can get in position. Haha.
Image via Antiques and the Arts
This market is actually made up of around 21 individual flea markets or “fields” with a different owner. Each one has a different vibe or feel and many have names, which sounds like a lot of fun. Most have free admissions and some may charge a nominal fee like $5.
Round Top Antiques Fair
Round Top, Texas
Big Red Barn March 25-20, Blue Hills March 16-30
Big Red Barn October 14-19, Blue Hills October 5-19
Each day open 9am – various closing times
General Admission $10 after 1pm Opening Day
VIP $25 – 9am-1pm Opening Day
Online or Cash at the Gate
Free Parking
Founded by Emma Lee Turney in 1968, the Round Top Antique Show has become a beloved tradition in the Lone Star State. Now it is owned by the Layne Family. Held in The Big Red Barn and the Continental Tent across the charming town of Round Top, it offers a mix of European antiques, Americana, and artisanal crafts. With over 2,000 dealers, this event caters to every taste and budget. Over 100,000 shoppers converge on Round Top every Fall. In 2012, a rare 19th-century photo of outlaw Jesse James was discovered tucked away in a box of old photographs at the Round Top Antique Show, sparking a frenzy among collectors.
Image via Round Top Texas Antiques
You can shop from all over the world along 11 miles of the Texas State Highway 237 on both sides. The population of Round Top is only 90 people, but over 100,000 shoppers converge on this small city every year.
https://www.roundtoptexasantiques.com
Anything you can think of for a project, you can find at this market.
Scott Antique Market
Atlanta, Georgia
Thursday – Sunday, 2nd Weekend of Every Month
See Website for Opening and Closing Times
$5 Admission
Free Parking
Founded in 1998 by Don Scott, Scott Antique Markets has become one of the premier antique shows in the Southeast. There’s also a location in Columbus, Ohio. I’ve been to the market several times over the years and I still think I haven’t seen everything. Spanning multiple buildings and areas outside, it offers a vast selection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage goods. With over 3,500 vendors across its locations, Scott Antique Markets is a paradise for antique enthusiasts. Don Scott got his start in the antique business by selling items he salvaged from his job as a demolition contractor! Four generations are now running the markets.
This inside view shows you only part of what this market has to offer.
The outside areas are a little more rustic, but if you’re a fan of patins, like I am, you’ll love it.
Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market
Shipshewana, Indiana
April 30 – September 25
Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 8am – 4pm
Free Admission
$5 Parking
Dating back to the 1920s, the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market is a beloved institution in the heart of Amish country and is the biggest in the Midwest. Spanning 40 acres, it offers a mix of traditional Amish crafts, antiques, and locally-made goods. They have special holiday markets in October and December. With over 700 vendors, this market provides a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Amish community. Visitors might catch a glimpse of an authentic Amish buggy parked among the rows of vendors, adding to the unique charm of the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market.
This aerial view shows you just how large this market is.
Image via Shipshewana Facebook
Not only can you vintage shop, there’s many auctions that you can participate in. The auctions are a great way to get bargain deals and it’s so much fun.
Image via Shipshewana Trading Place
So whether you’re a seasoned collector or just love the thrill of the hunt, these 5 antique fairs and markets offer an unforgettable experience filled with history, nostalgia, and hidden treasures. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to embark on a journey through America’s rich past!
Stay tuned for Part 2 where I’ll show you the next 5 Best Markets and let you know some of my favorite “must-have” items to bring with you on your trip.
Let me know if you love vintage shopping and if you’ve ever been to any of these.
See ya next time.
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