The best flea markets in the Southeast

In warm-weather climates, flea markets stay open year-round. Discover the best places for vintage finds in the Southeast U.S.

Whether you are looking for a good deal on used tools or antiques to spice up your home, a flea market is the perfect place to start searching. Enjoy fried food, local charm and unique finds at one of these top flea markets in the Southeast.

After opening almost 25 years ago, the Great Smokies Flea Market has hosted around 5,000 visitors a day on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Parking is free, and local vendors sell tasty home-cooked food to keep you energized for flea-market picking.

• Located 20 miles northeast of Knoxville, Tennessee
• greatsmokiesfleamarket.com

Located northeast of Athens, Georgia, Pendergrass Flea Market is an enormous indoor flea market with family-friendly attractions, such as a small zoo and amusement-park rides. Because many vendors carry new items, it isn’t your best bet for antiques — but it is a whole lot of fun.

• Located in Pendergrass, Georgia
• pendflea.com

At Mustang Flea Market, shoppers can pick up locally-grown produce and fresh seafood in addition to unique treasures and vintage finds. When you are done shopping, visit nearby Cajun Cafe for craft beer and authentic jambalaya.

• Located in Pinellas Park, Florida
• 727-544-3066

If you are tired of sifting through bootlegs, Anderson Jockey Lot is a breath of fresh air. This small-town country flea market is brimming with vintage goodies. Wear a good pair of walking shoes; it will take hours to explore the indoor and outdoor booths at this expansive market.

• Located in Belton, South Carolina
• jockeylot.com

These days, flea markets do not always involve antiques. At Lakewood 400 Antiques Market, you will find true classics. It is the perfect place to find a statement piece for your home or a foundation for a furniture renovation project. The $3 admission is worth the quality of the finds.

• Located in Atlanta, Georgia
• lakewoodantiques.com

Make the most out of your flea market shopping trip with these handy tips.

• Avoid stalls selling new items. Knock offs and imports are not good quality and may be sold by a vendor skirting the law.
• Bring cash. Some booths may accept credit, but you are always better off with cash.
• Haggle politely. The first price you see is never the final price. Haggle for a better price, but be polite.
• Wear sunscreen. You do not want to bring home a sunburn in addition to cool antiques.
• Know your materials. If you are looking for vintage items and antiques, practice spotting quality, such as hardwood and precious metals.
• Avoid purchasing animals. Seek reputable breeders, or better yet, adopt your next pet.

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