Top flea markets to visit on a New York break
Friday, 5 August 2011 5:03 PM
Everybody loves a bargain, whether it comes in the form of cheap flights to New York or the perfect souvenir of your travels.
During your holiday to the Big Apple, you might want to head off the beaten path and explore some of the city's iconic flea markets.
You'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to venues, so you'll want to consider your options carefully – particularly if you are pressed for time.
One of the most famous places to look for bargains in New York is the Hell's Kitchen flea market, which is located at 39th St between 9th and 10th Aves. This weekend market is a great place to sift through a huge range of secondhand items, including designer clothing and vintage homeware.
You'll want to bear in mind that this market is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, so you may wish to arrive early – before 10:00 – to beat the crowds and ensure you get the best choice.
Hell's Kitchen is also a brilliant place to indulge in a post-shopping snack – try the pizza made onsite for a true New York experience.
If you're after clothing and furniture items, the PS 321 Flea Market could be the perfect destination for you. Located in the playground of an elementary school, the vendors here specialise in vintage items – including eye-catching retro works of art. Keep your eye out for paintings of Elvis on black velvet, as well as plenty of bric-a-brac.
Greenflea, on Columbus Avenue between 76th and 77th Sts, is a unique blend of old and new items – look for secondhand goods on sale alongside handmade jewellery. This market could be an ideal place for you to pick up a souvenir of your time in New York and you'll find it runs on Sundays from 10:00.
More than 150 vendors can be found at the Brooklyn Flea, which sprawls across two locations. You'll want to plan your visit to this market depending on what you are looking for – the venue at Bishop Laughlin Memorial High School in Fort Greene specialises in records and vintage clothing, while the one at Fulton Ferry State Park in Dumbo is the place to go if you are looking for decorative items and furniture.
Whether you are flying first and business class to the USA or economy, you are sure to have a brilliant time exploring New York's iconic flea markets for yourself. Start planning your memorable trip to the Big Apple – and don't forget to leave room in your luggage for any treasures you may acquire on your journey!