Posted in Nebraska
September 26, 2015
10 Must-Visit Flea Markets In Nebraska Where You’ll Find Awesome Stuff
If you’re into finding second-hand treasures, fall is a pretty perfect time to live and shop in Nebraska. This weekend alone, there are two major flea markets taking place. But no matter where you are or what time of year it is, you’ll find amazing steals and deals at these Nebraska flea markets. (For some of the greatest antique shops in Nebraska, check out our list here.)
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
If you're going to visit just one Nebraska flea market, this is the one to pick. The looping flea market route covers more than 300 miles and travels through around 40 towns. The route is lined with vendors selling their wares, so if you have something specific in mind the chances are great that you'll find it among these treasures. Last year, the event attracted more than 20,000 people from 34 states and from 79 of Nebraska's 93 counties. Get more information from the Junk Jaunt official site.
Twice a year, this tiny town of less than 150 people opens up to more than 260 vendors and thousands of treasure hunters. The entire town becomes an open-air market where you can browse the stalls, pick out those must-have items, and dine on the finest festival foods. Find out more on the town's website.
Junkstock is Omaha's "3 Days of Peace, Love, Music, and Junk." A farm is taken over by more than 150 vendors selling the kind of awesome objects you might expect to see on one of the junking shows on TV. But this is more than just a flea market; Junkstock also features live music, tons of food trucks, and activities for the kids. Get more info on Junkstock's site.
On the first Saturday of each month July through October, the Old Pilger Rest Area on Hwy 275 turns into a bargain hunter's paradise. Vendors flock to this well-organized event to sell their best junk, crafts, foods, and all sorts of other fantastic finds. If you're a "junk" rehabber yourself, you'll find endless inspiration here for projects you can do at home. For more information, visit the Country Market Days Facebook page.
Held at the Red Willow Fairgrounds in McCook and the old Southroads Mall in Bellevue, Junktoberfest features vendors selling antiques, crafts, and vintage and repurposed items. Food vendors will also be setting up shop to keep you well-fueled as you treasure hunt. Find out more at the Junktoberfest Facebook page.
Located next to Potter's Sundries (the famous birthplace of the Tin Roof Sundae), this charming little shop features antiques, collectibles, gifts, and a whole bunch of little surprises that are sure to inspire a smile. For opening hours and more info, visit the store's Facebook page.
With three locations in Omaha, the Imaginarium has more stuff than you can shake three sticks at. It ranges from the goofy (like a life-size Gumby) to the sensible (like boxes of nails) to the just plain neat (like Fiestaware and vintage jewelry). Find out more at the Imaginarium Facebook page.
This store is absolutely overflowing with just about everything you never knew you needed. From handmade items to vintage toys and household items, there are enough treasures here to keep you busy for quite a while. The Junktion Flea Market Facebook Page can give you more information about the store.
Memory Lane operates one location in Dakota City and a second in Sioux City, IA (the Iowa location is pictured). The Dakota City store is packed with lightly-used furniture as well as some of the standard flea market lovely treasures. Learn more at the company's Facebook page.
The Mega Market/Omaha Flea Market is like a combination of the outdoor and indoor flea markets listed above. Everything is indoors and long-term vendors have their own permanent spaces (known as the Mega Market), but unlike most other indoor flea markets, each Mega Mart vendor mans his/her own stall at all times. The Omaha Flea Market operates in the building on weekends only for people who don't necessarily make a whole business of selling their stuff. You'll find a huge variety of items on both sides, ranging from handcrafted treasures to Avon products to antiques, collectibles, and furniture.
There are a lot of great opportunities out there for adventurous treasure hunters! What’s your favorite flea market, whether it’s a temporary festival-type deal or a more permanent place?
