Thrifting in NYC: The Best Flea Markets in New York City

When it comes to excellent shopping, there’s no place on earth like NYC. That doesn’t stop with upscale department stores and designer boutiques, however. There are several fun flea markets and street fairs to shop for all types of handmade goods and an array of wares with a vintage vibe. Some also have vendors for eats to keep your inner foodie happy, too.

New to flea market shopping and wondering which ones are the best? Check out these flea faves in the New York City area you won’t want to miss. 

 Photo credit: "2015-05-16_New York38" by Ungry Young Man is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Artists and Fleas Williamsburg

70 North 7^th Street, Brooklyn, New York 11249; (917) 488-4203; www.artistsandfleas.com

The Artists and Fleas flagship location in Brooklyn features more than 45 vendors setting up each weekend. Expect to find a wide array of goods including handmade, contemporary, and vintage. Other locations include Artists and Fleas Regeneration just down the block featuring vintage and thrift items with an emphasis on fashion and accessories. The Artists and Fleas location in Chelsea is similar to Williamsburg but on a smaller scale.

Photo credit: "File:Vendor display at Brooklyn Flea.jpg" by Caroline Culler (User:Wgreaves) is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Brooklyn Flea

80 Pearl Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201; brooklynflea.com

This market located under the Dumbo Archway opens for the season the first weekend in April. Vendors to offer a wide variety of products here ranging from artisan made items to vintage, antiques, and food.

Photo credit: "Chelsea Flea Market" by olofw is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Chelsea Flea Market

29 W. 25^th St., New York, New York 10010; www.chelseaflea.com

This outdoor flea market takes place every Saturday and Sunday all year long. Approximately 50 to 60 vendors set up there selling quality vintage items, antiques, and collectibles.

Photo credit: Grand Bazaar NYC

Grand Bazaar NYC

100 W. 77^th St., New York, New York 10024; grandbazaarnyc.org

Grand Bazaar is one of the larger flea markets in New York City. It operates every Sunday, year-round. In addition to antiques and vintage items sold by numerous vendors, handmade artisan wares are also available.

Photo credit: Hester Street Fair

Hester Street Fair

25 Essex St., New York, NY 10002; (917) 727-1833; www.hesterstreetfair.com

Although it’s no longer held in its original spot, this fair remains popular with patrons who’ve followed it to the new location at The Seaport. Open weekends from late April through early November, shoppers enjoy themed events like “Girl Power” and “Pride” on select dates. Vendors sell everything from vintage clothing to handmade art.

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Lead Image credit: "Artists & Fleas market at Chelsea Market" by Bex.Walton is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Written by:

Pamela Siegel

March 1, 2023     Updated 01:07 PM

As a freelance writer, Pamela Siegel covers lifestyle topics ranging from antiques and collectibles to interior design and everything around the home. Her work appears on The Spruce where she shared tips and research as the site’s antiques expert for many years. She also writes for House Digest, Kovels Antique Trader, Worthpoint, and Mashed. In addition to penning thousands of articles for online resources and print-based pubs, Siegel authored several books including “Warman’s Costume Jewelry” and “Buying & Seling Antiques and Collectibles on eBay.” She also shares her expertise with other magazine writers along with doing television, radio and podcast interviews. As often as possible, Siegel loves shopping flea markets and estate sales for her next great find, home decorating, foodie pursuits, and exploring the world on cruise ships.

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