Sticking close to home this summer? Be sure to reserve a day for some fun and adventure at the Mile High Flea Market. Conveniently located at I-76 & 88th Avenue, the market is just 10 minutes from downtown Denver.
Go Prepared
The historic flea market has been a Denver tradition, drawing locals and tourists alike since 1976. A fixture in the Rocky mountain region, the traditional, community-oriented, open-air shopping brings together the people of Denver every weekend, year-round. On average, the market hosts 2,500 weekend vendors selling goods.
The flea market rests on 80-acres, and you will cover some ground if you do it right, so dress appropriately for the weather, apply sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your reusable shopping bags.
The flea market is open every weekend, year-round from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $2 per person on Fridays and $3 per person on Saturdays and Sundays. Children under 12 are free. If you plan to attend frequently, multi-day and annual passes are also available.
Access to the market is convenient by car, and while there is ample parking available (no additional charge), it’s best to arrive early so you can secure a close space.
Download the flea market map in advance so you can plan your day. You will notice the market is laid out in a grid with lettered streets (A Street), running north and south, and numbered avenues (1st Avenue) running east and west. The Flea Market is located on A thru F and I thru O streets between 3rd and 5th avenues. The Farmers Market is located on G thru H streets between 3rd and 5th avenues and the Shops on A thru M streets between 1st and 3rd avenues. Located on the far eastern end of the complex in the flea market section, between 4th and 5th avenues and L and K streets is one of the biggest draws to the flea market – the kids rides (NOTE: Rides are not open on Fridays).
Where to Start
Head to All Hyped Up for a hot cup of coffee if you want a kick-start to your day. If you want more than a coffee and a roll before you hit the sales, you may want to stop for a full breakfast at Marketplace Gill (located at 2nd Ave. between G and H streets).
Check out the current deals on household items located near the main entrance. Be sure to stroll through the antique and collectibles stores, top household and beauty lines, and discounted furniture and luggage shops to help outfit your apartment.
Fun For The Little Ones
If you’re visiting with kids, you’ll want to stop by the ride zone, which includes a classic roller coaster, giant slide, toddler-friendly mini mobiles and a brand-new bumper boats pool. Tickets are reasonably priced and allow adults and little ones to enjoy an ever-growing selection of rides.
Shop by The Bowl
The Farmer’s Market features seasonal fruit and vegetables, including Rocky Ford melons, Olathe corn and Palisade peaches. Produce arrives weekly from all around the state and region, and fruits are organized for sale in small bowls. The sellers are personable and helpful if you need help picking out fruit or want to know how to use a fresh ingredient in a recipe. Score a few items to enjoy as part of an afternoon picnic in between shopping. Just outside the Farmer’s Market is an area with umbrellas that is perfect for picnicking.
Flea Market Delicacies
You will find several food and beverage options throughout the flea market, but some of the more notable selections include Micheladas: a mouthwatering signature beverage made with Clamato juice, beer, and a blend of special spices. The brim of the cup is dipped in Mediterranean sea salt. Try pairing this with a turkey Leg from Turkey’s Last Stand. Complement your meal with grab-and-go options, like sweet sugar coated churros, hot buttered corn on the cob, fresh-roasted kettle corn, tacos, and Icees.
A trip to the Mile High Flea Market is the perfect way to spend the day. If you want to be conveniently located to community activities and shopping, consider checking out Habitat Apartments. Our affordable and pet-friendly apartments offer manicured courtyards and open, light-filled homes. Contact us today to learn more!