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5 Michigan Antique and Vintage Flea Markets Worth Visiting This Summer
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5 Michigan Antique and Vintage Flea Markets Worth Visiting This Summer

The slower pace of summer is ideal for strolling through antiques and flea markets.

You’ll want to get there early to get the best selection, though be aware that as the day progresses and closing time approaches, you may be able to score some good deals from sellers who don’t want to take everything home.

It’s a good idea to haggle. Often, vendors have a little leeway in their pricing. While some vendors accept credit card payments, others don’t. So, bring cash. Also, sometimes vendors are more likely to offer a discount if you pay in cash — that way, they don’t need to shell out credit card processing fees that eat into their profits.

Also, you should know that an item must be 100 years old to be considered an antique. You will find some at these antique markets, but you will also find many vintage items.

Here are five places worth a visit. Open-air markets take place rain or shine. But in case you don’t fancy walking in the rain, we’ve included an indoor option too.

Now, let’s go shopping.

Utica Antique Market

The Utica Antiques Market, held three times a year at the 25-acre Knights of Columbus Park in Shelby Township, has been running since 1986. The event is a pleasant weekend stroll. Vendors set up under tents, though some get space in a covered picnic pavilion. When it comes to antiques and vintage finds, you’ll find all the usual suspects here: dishes, linens, glassware, pottery, toys, furniture, mirrors and more. You’ll also find a few food stands and gourmet popcorn. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re leashed and well-behaved. Upcoming shows are July 13 and 14 and Sept. 7 and 8. And here’s a sweet deal: Pay admission on Saturday and you can come back on Sunday for free.

ADDRESS:11541 21 Mile Rd., Shelby TownshipAdmission$10 per person, children 15 and under are free Hours: 8 am – 5 pm on Saturday; 8 am – 4 pm on SundayMore information:www.facebook.com/uticaantiques

Davisburg Antique Market

The Davisburg Antiques Market, located on the sprawling grounds of Springfield Oaks County Park, is held twice a year. The next fair is scheduled for Oct. 12 and 13. You’ll find treasures in mint condition and others in need of a little soap and polish. Specifically, you’ll find jewelry, yard knickknacks, holiday decorations, toys, books, linens, lamps and furniture in both large and small pieces. There’s an ATM on site, as well as a collection of festival-worthy food options. Some antique vendors have their spot inside the park’s large barn, but most are outdoors under tents. At some point during the day, a pre-recorded version of the national anthem will play over loudspeakers and an honor guard will fire its guns in salute.

ADDRESS: 12451 Andersonville Rd., DavisburgAdmission: $10 per person Hours: 8 am – 6 pm Saturday, October 12; 9 am – 4 pm Sunday, October 13More information: www.miantiquefestival.com

Livingston Antique Shop

The Livingston Antique Outlet in Howell offers wares from about 200 vendors. Unlike many antique malls, this one has largely resisted the temptation to become a purveyor of crafts and potpourri. The staff is friendly and the merchandise is all kinds. Some booths are better than others, but the overall quality is good. You’ll find books and knickknacks, records and rings, pottery and china and much more. The store has occasional sales, with discounts up to 30%. The bathrooms are clean – the advantage of shopping in an indoor mall is that there are no portable toilets! If you buy something gigantic or heavy, you’ll have to bring your own movers. It’s open daily; weekends are the busiest days.ADDRESS: 1825 N. Burkhard Rd., Howell Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. More information: livingstonantiqueoutlet.com

Allegan Antique Market

It’s best to get out early for this event, as it’s a bit of a drive — 40 minutes south of Grand Rapids. Or you can stop by the Allegan Market for a long weekend in West Michigan. The Allegan Market is held five times a year — the last Sunday of the month, May through September — and has a little bit of everything. The fair’s rules for vendors state that merchandise must be antique, vintage or out-of-production collectibles. Clothing must be at least 50 years old — from the 1970s or earlier. Newer craft items and blankets, paintings, jewelry, kitchen or yard decorations are not allowed. Sounds good, right? Remaining markets this year: July 28, Aug. 25 and Sept. 29. ADDRESS: 150 Allegan County Fair Dr., Allegan. Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission: $5; children under 12 are free. Pets are not allowed. More information: alleganantiques.com.

Sunday Market at Eastern Market

Closer to home: Every Sunday from June through September, the sheds at Detroit’s Eastern Market host a Sunday extravaganza. The market offers lotions and potions, handmade jewelry, clothing, T-shirts, handbags, hand-drawn illustrations, vintage records, succulents, a small assortment of greens, plants, deodorants and lip balms, and other personal care items that are advertised as all-natural. In the mix: food trucks. Once you’ve wandered through the sheds, you’ll want to check out the nearby shops. DeVries & Co., the former cheese factory, is always fun, with products like yard ornaments, planters, and seasonal decorations in boxes on the sidewalk in front of the store. And the antique shops on the market grounds may be worth a look, too. ADDRESS: Sheds 2, 3 and 4 at Eastern Market, along Russell Street in DetroitHours: From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays until September. For more information: mercadooriental.org.

Bonus: A Michigan Tradition

If you’re up for a road trip, the U.S. 12 Heritage Trail Yard Sale, known as Michigan’s longest yard sale (it’s about 200 miles long), is taking place August 9-11. The event will run along U.S. Route 12 from Detroit to the western edge of Michigan. More information: us12heritagetrail.org.

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