A great way to soak up the essence of a city, talk with locals, and grab a bargain or two in the process is to attend a local flea market. Who doesn’t love a flea market? It’s a great way to spend an afternoon alone, or with friends. Whether you are in the mood for a nifty vintage outfit, an antique collectible, or are simply looking for that next great book to read, you’ll likely find it at a Portland flea market. Shop for buried treasure here!
Why do they call them flea markets, anyway?
I don’t know, seems kind of off-putting, doesn’t it? Flea markets are notoriously sporadic – many of them occur just one day a week or one day a month. Some are fleeting, they come and go, but the Portland Saturday Market has been around since the early 1970’s. Here are some flea markets in Portland that will take your money!
Portland Flea + Food
You have a short window in which to experience this heralded Portland institution. During the last Sunday of the month for a few short hours, indulge in the handiwork of food purveyors and curators of vintage.
Portland Saturday Market
The premiere place in Portland for one-of-kind local artisan shopping. I’ve been here countless times and the scene keeps changing – with new vendors and old alike.
House of Vintage
Located in the Hawthorne neighborhood, this brick-and-mortar shop is a bit on the eclectic side, but then what vintage store isn’t?
Portland State University Farmers Market
Right on the beautiful downtown PSU campus, they are open most Saturdays, weather permitting. Yes, they have lots of fresh produce booths, but they also have many crafty and food vendors.
Antique Alley
Over 100 vendors in a huge lower level space, offering everything from housewares, textiles, clothing, books & toys, to antique collectibles.