The Gunn Highway Flea Market is a throw-back to the way flea markets used to be. It's smaller than most in the area and has a slower pace. This market specializes in yard sale items, fresh produce, used books, and vintage clothing. If you look hard, you are sure to find something unique and interesting at a bargain price. If you're looking for new items or high-end antiques, this probably isn't the place for you. Other perks of the market include a reasonably priced breakfast and lunch, and free and ample parking.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: Located north east of Tampa, this Gunn Hwy Flea Market is a smaller, out-of-the-way flea market and a good spot to experience local life.
Skye's expert tip: If you're getting an early start, visit on Friday or Saturday as church takes precedence on Sundays.
What could be more fun than flea market browsing followed by a drive-in movie? This Tampa landmark, and one of the busiest markets in the Bay, is located at the historic Fun-Lan Drive-In Theater, originally opened in 1950. The swap shop moved from another drive-in to Fun-Lan in 1981 and features a quirky collection of outdoor booths overflowing with unique antiques, one-of-a-kind collectibles, sporting equipment, locally made crafts and high-quality fresh produce. Vendors are friendly and you never know what you will find. Take the whole family and stick around after the market to watch the feature movie.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: The Fun-Lan Flea Market is centrally located in Tampa and gets points for its quirky pairing of bargain hunting and drive-in movies.
Skye's expert tip: Entrance to the market is free but parking costs $1 - $2 depending on the day. The drive-in is equally budget-friendly at $7 for adults and $2 for kids.
One of the most spirited spots in the Tampa, Florida area, this cherished flea market's 1,000-plus booths and lively atmosphere draw huge crowds every weekend. With a good mix of old and new, this is one of most well-rounded markets in the area. Favorite items found amidst the collage of booths include antique clocks, record albums, legal DVDs, obsolete toys, exquisite vintage clothing and accessories, fresh produce and vibrant, healthy plants for home landscaping. Several aisles are air-conditioned, and after intense flea marketing, crispy corn nuggets, funnel cakes and ice-cold beer revitalize visitors.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: From fashion to flooring, you can find it all at the Oldsmar Flea Market with 20 acres and 1,200 vendors
Skye's expert tip: Special features of this market include a well-stocked discount golf shop and a plant nursery.
Located in Plant City, just 30 minutes east of Tampa, is the Plant City Farm & Flea Market that is notable for it's 7-day-a-week wholesale farmer's market that has grown since its inception in the late 80's into one of the larger Independent Farmers Market in the south. This is the perfect opportunity to score the freshest fruit and vegetables from suppliers to all the local supermarkets, fruit stands, and restaurants. The flea market aspect is only open Wednesdays with doors opening at 5 am and features 300 - 500 dealers depending on the season.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: The Plant City Farm & Flea Market features a large farmer's wholesale market that is open every day of the week.
Skye's expert tip: Stop in and say hello to the folks at "Boss Hogg Radio 1360 AM" located on-site in their remote studio.
International Market World is located about 40 miles east of Tampa, but is well worth the drive with over 1,200 vendors offering shopping, dining and entertainment options. Bargains can be found with all types of merchandise, tools, crafts, clothing, plants, t-shirts and one-of-a-kind gift ideas. When you're hungry choose from Asian and Hispanic fare, as well as a selection of family favorites such as Pizza, BBQ, Corn-on-the-Cob, Funnel Cakes, and Strawberry Shortcake. Looking for more healthy fare? Try grabbing a fresh Florida orange from one of the produce vendors. The Market also hosts special events and musical entertainment throughout the year. Check their calendar for details.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: Located midway between Tampa and Orlando, International Market World is a perfect pit-stop for sampling local food, searching for gifts, and enjoying live entertainment.
Skye's expert tip: Don't miss the Florida State Championship Bluegrass and Clogging Festival held in March that attracts over 100,000 bluegrass enthusiasts each year!
Located in heart of Tampa's historic district, the Ybor City Saturday Market is a popular spot for finding locally produced gifts and specialty items unique to the area. The Market has been operating since 2000 and is the largest continually-running outdoor market in Tampa. Local vendors and artists offer fresh local produce, gourmet foods & sauces, fresh baked breads, prepared foods, herbs & plants, pet treats, honey, fine cigars, unique gifts, photography, artwork, jewelry, woodworking, bath & body products, candles and much more! There is free parking and admission is free. Hours are 9am - 1pm, April to September and 9am - 3pm from October through March.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: Ybor City's Saturday Market makes the list of top markets due to its unique selection of locally produced gift and specialty items.
Skye's expert tip: Stop by the market before exploring Ybor City's other shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
The Red Barn Flea Market is located less than an hour south of Tampa and boasts a daily attendance of 10,000 in their 145,000 square foot facility. It's also large, clean, air-conditioned, and has a family-friendly appeal. Featuring over 650 vendors, you can find everything from clothing and collectibles, to kitchen supplies and sporting goods. There is also a farmer's market stocked with fresh, local produce at bargain prices. After you're done shopping, you can take a break in their food court and enjoy some live entertainment. Although open every day but Monday, there is limited access during the week.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: Located south of Tampa in Bradenton, the Red Barn Flea Market is a great day trip featuring a large selection, food vendors, and live entertainment.
Skye's expert tip: This location hosts a great farmer's market, but is not the best spot to find antiques.
The Webster Westside Flea Market is for serious bargain hunters and is generally thought to be the best flea market in Florida, if not the entire southeast. People flock from all over the state to search through the overwhelming number of booths and stalls. You can find almost everything here and get a great deal, but be prepared to bargain for it. This market is perhaps best known for its antiques, but make sure you get there early for the best selection.
Recommended for Flea Markets because: The Webster Westside Flea Market is Florida's oldest and best known flea market located an hour north of Tampa.
Skye's expert tip: Arrive early to avoid traffic and allow plenty of time to explore as the Westside flea market is co-located with several other smaller markets.