Top 15 Flea Markets to Explore in Minnesota

Recognized as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota boasts a total of 11,842 lakes, accumulating more shoreline than the combined total of California, Florida, and Hawaii.

With numerous water bodies to discover, it’s evident why the state attracts many boating and fishing enthusiasts, leading the nation in the ratio of boat owners. However, what options exist for those who prefer to remain on solid ground?

The “Twin Cities” of Minnesota – including the capital, Saint Paul, and the adjacent Minneapolis – present ideal destinations for individuals seeking retail opportunities. Moreover, those with a taste for unique offerings will find an abundance at the state’s numerous flea markets, vintage shops, and country fairs.

If you are in search of an exciting flea market experience, consider exploring the following 15 premier flea markets in Minnesota:

1. Mercado Central

As one of the busiest markets in Minneapolis, Mercado Central operates daily from 6am, featuring over 35 vendors offering various goods and services.

Inaugurated in 1999, Mercado Central has managed to secure a larger number of permanent merchants compared to a traditional flea market. Nonetheless, shoppers can expect an impressive array of both new and pre-owned items, alongside delicious food options and various services, including an on-site hairdresser and real estate agent.

For those searching for distinctive gifts, Mercado Central features vendors selling clothing, toys, jewelry, flowers, artisanal food, and essential groceries.

http://mimercadocentral.com/

2. Wright County Swappers Meet

Established in 1970, the Wright County Swappers Meet stands as Minnesota’s largest outdoor market. Operating every Saturday from April to October and Sundays between June and August, this extensive flea market features an average of 300 vendors each weekend, offering a plethora of items including apparel, tools, arts and crafts, gardening supplies, live pets, antiques, jewelry, electronic goods, and more.

Holiday weekends attract considerable crowds at the Wright County Swappers Meet, accompanied by live entertainment, performances, and even pony rides for children.

With free parking and no browsing fee, this venue provides an excellent budget-friendly family outing. Additionally, visitors can enjoy breakfast and lunch at the Snack Shack or explore a variety of food and drink stalls throughout the market.

http://www.wrightcountyswappersmeet.com/

3. Wadena Flea & Craft Market

The seasonal Wadena Flea & Craft Market offers an ideal excursion for summer treasure seekers.

Open on weekends from May to October, the market features both indoor and outdoor vendors, ensuring comfortable shopping regardless of the weather. With four buildings filled with antiques, furniture, collectibles, as well as recycled and upcycled items, visitors can spend hours discovering unique products and rare finds.

Though it may be a couple of hours drive from the “Twin Cities,” the Wadena Flea & Craft Market is certainly worth the journey for its distinctive offerings and reasonable prices.

http://www.wadenafleamarket.com/

4. Junk Bonanza

The title encapsulates its essence – Junk Bonanza serves as one of Minnesota’s premier flea markets, where one person’s discard can easily be another’s treasure.

Hosting events across America, the Minnesota Junk Bonanza is marketed as a premier destination for antiques, junk, and flea market aficionados.

Originally commencing as a monthly flea market, it has evolved into an annual celebration. Junk Bonanza enforces a strict policy against reproductions, ensuring that shoppers can expect authentic antiques, collectibles, and vintage items.

The event also includes guest appearances from industry experts, along with educational workshops and giveaways.

http://junkbonanza.com/

5. St. Cloud Indoor Flea Market

Situated in St. Cloud, this quaint indoor flea market operates from Tuesday to Saturday throughout the year, showcasing an impressive assortment of new and used goods.

Located inside a striking red barn, the St. Cloud Indoor Flea Market features over 100 vendors, offering everything from baby goods to office supplies.

Antique enthusiasts can discover exceptional bargains at the 89¢ Store or search for rare and vintage treasures. Stalls offer a variety of products, including books, clothing, handcrafted items, furniture, seasonal decorations, kitchen appliances, and more.

Commencing at 10am daily, this market stands out as one of Minnesota’s top choices for unique acquisitions.

http://www.stcloudfleamarket.com/

6. Wabasha Discount Flea Market

For those seeking discounted second-hand or near-new furniture, the Wabasha Discount Flea Market is the premier location for budget-friendly home decor.

Operating from Thursday to Sunday starting at 9am, this expansive market specializes in nearly-new modern furnishings, including bedroom sets, along with a diverse selection of home decor items, floral arrangements, sewing supplies, stationery, health and beauty products, and gift items.

Moreover, the Wabasha Flea proves to be an ideal venue for arts and crafts enthusiasts, featuring a dedicated area for sewing supplies, including needles, yarn, thread, and materials for scrapbooking and crafts.

http://www.wabashadiscount.com/

7. Trader’s Market Inc

The Trader’s Market in Elko occurs annually during Memorial Day Weekend, 4th of July Weekend, and Labor Day Weekend. This event is considered one of the largest flea markets in the state.

The expansive market showcases a diverse range of antique and vintage products, alongside vendors offering “junk,” both new and used items, handmade crafts, and more. Each market event attracts more than 300 merchants, complemented by a variety of food and beverage vendors, providing snacks throughout the day.

While attendance is ticketed, with children aged 10 and under admitted free of charge and adults charged only $6, the abundance of bargains to discover makes this an economical outing for the whole family.

http://www.tradersmarket.us/

8. Lakehead Harvest Reunion

The Annual Lakehead Harvest Reunion not only provides some of the most remarkable flea market finds in Minnesota, but also offers a delightful, festival-style experience suitable for family members of all ages.

Alongside a multitude of flea market stalls filled with antiques, collectibles, and various “junk” items, attendees can enjoy numerous activities, entertainment, and food options.

Daily parades and wagon rides can be expected, along with an extensive schedule of demonstrations and educational shows, featuring saw-milling, blacksmithing, shingle making, antique rock crushing, steam and gas models, tractor pulls, and numerous antique tractors on display.

http://www.lakeheadharvest.org/

9. The French Flea

More akin to a “Flea Boutique” than a typical flea market, the French Flea in Anoka serves as an excellent destination for patrons who prefer not to rummage extensively for vintage and antique finds.

This market operates every Thursday to Saturday from 10am, and Sundays from 11am, showcasing a diverse selection of unique vintage pieces, refurbished antiques, and distinctive home decor through its vendor, referred to as “Fleabags.”

For those in search of the perfect finishing touch for their home or an ideal gift for a vintage or retro enthusiast, the French Flea provides a sophisticated shopping experience in Minnesota.

http://www.thefrenchfleaofanoka.com/

10. Excelsior Flea Market

Operating for over 15 years, the Excelsior Flea Market is situated opposite beautiful Lake Minnetonka and is held every Saturday from June through August, with occasional openings during the holiday season.

Sponsored by the Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt, this flea market features an eclectic collection of new and used goods, household items, and gifts. Whether in search of a new outfit, eye-catching jewelry, glassware, artisan food gifts, quilts, toys, furniture, antiques, or plants, the Excelsior Flea Market is an outstanding venue to uncover bargains and hidden gems.

http://excelsiormarkets.blogspot.co.uk/

11. Shady Hollow Flea Market

Located just five miles south of Detroit Lakes, the Shady Hollow Flea Market has maintained its reputation as one of Minnesota’s beloved family-friendly flea markets for over 45 years.

Attracting both tourists and locals, this sprawling 3.5-acre market operates every weekend from May through September. It hosts over 25 permanent vendors, with up to 100 temporary vendors each weekend from the tri-state region.

The market caters to all ages with a diverse selection of merchandise, including clothing, jewelry, sports equipment, tools, toys, books, CDs, DVDs, antiques, and collectibles.

Hungry shoppers can refuel at the on-site restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, accompanied by a variety of vendors offering snacks such as corn dogs, doughnuts, and pizza.

http://shadyhollowfleamarket.com/

12. Hamel Lions Flea Market

Operated every Sunday from May through September, the Hamel Lions Flea Market is Hennepin County’s most prominent outdoor flea market.

As a traditional flea market, visitors will need to explore thoroughly to uncover hidden gems; however, for those with a treasure-seeking spirit, this venue stands unrivaled in the state.

Shoppers can discover remarkable deals on antiques, collectibles, and furniture, along with vendors showcasing fresh local produce, plants, flowers, and handcrafted gifts.

https://www.hamellions.org/flea-market

13. The Stillwater Flea and Crafters Market

Now in its fourth year, the Stillwater Flea and Crafters Market has emerged as one of the largest and best in Minnesota, attracting numerous vendors and visitors on the final weekend of each month.

Taking place from May through September at the Washington County Fairgrounds, the market has also expanded its offerings to include a significant number of arts and crafts vendors over recent years, making it an excellent stop for those in pursuit of unique gifts and handmade creations.

Whether looking for an inexpensive day trip in the picturesque St. Croix River Valley or seeking treasures among endless stalls of antiques, furniture, home decor, clothing, jewelry, books, crafts, and more, the Stillwater Flea and Crafters Market is among Minnesota’s finest.

http://rsgdevelopment.com/fleamarket

14. Minnesota’s Antique Spectacular & Flea Market

Hosted several times annually at St. Paul’s State Fairgrounds, Minnesota’s Antique Spectacular & Flea Market represents the largest antique and flea event in the Twin Cities.

Organized by Prime Promotions, a company with over 30 years of experience in flea and antique shows in Minnesota, this market features over 100 vendors and a vast assortment of goods.

Entry is ticketed, with discounts available for patrons of local antique shops, allowing access to both weekend days for just $7.

Visitors may anticipate discovering antiques, furniture, collectibles, vintage apparel, and home decor, alongside various remarkable and unique items.

http://www.mnantiqueshows.com/

15. A Gathering of Friends Antiques Market

The biannual A Gathering of Friends Antiques Market in Minneapolis is intimate yet charming, featuring approximately 18 vendors showcasing their offerings at each event.

For enthusiasts of vintage and retro clothing and accessories, this market is a perfect destination. Hosted in the Bachman’s Greenhouse on Lyndale Avenue South, it features an easy-to-browse selection of high-quality vintage apparel, jewelry, bags, and shoes.

A Gathering of Friends Antiques Market represents an excellent venue for obtaining distinctive home decor, including pottery, ornaments, and furniture.

http://www.agatheringoffriends.net/