Love to shop on the local level? Keep reading.
Today, we’re shining a light on the best flea markets in Ontario – from eastern-lying areas like Gananoque to far treks north of Sudbury, you’ll quickly see there are plenty of great shopping spots to be found throughout this great province.
St. Lawrence Market
It doesn’t get much more iconic than St. Lawrence Market. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, this historic marketplace has been a vibrant hub of culinary delights and community gathering since 1803. The sprawling complex comprises three buildings: the South Market, housing over 120 specialty vendors; the North Market, home to the Saturday Farmers’ Market and Sunday Antique Market; and St. Lawrence Hall, an elegant Victorian-era event space.
Visitors from near and far meander through aisles filled with artisanal cheeses, fresh-baked breads, locally sourced produce, and premium meats throughout the year. It’s an experience as much as it is a shopping trip.
Historical exhibits at St. Lawrence Market showcase a decades-long evolution from a simple public market to a National Historic Site of Canada. That’s primarily why we’ve included it on our list of best flea markets in Ontario; although far from what a traditional community weekend consortium looks like, this unique space deserves recognition for its cultural significance and size.
Christie Antique & Vintage Show
Nestled in the scenic countryside just outside Hamilton, the Christie Antique & Vintage Show stands as Canada’s largest outdoor antique event. It was established in 1988 as a bi-annual occasion and attracts over 10,000 visitors each spring and fall.
10 acres of picturesque parkland host more than 300 distinguished dealers from across Canada and the northeastern United States. Treasures range from period furniture, vintage clothing, architectural salvage, garden accents, and rare collectibles dating from the 18th to the mid-20th century to unique artisanal crafts and one-of-a-kind curiosities, there’s a find for everyone. And that’s just who attends – Christie Antique & Vintage Show is popular among collectors, decorators, and curious browsers alike.
Flea & Street Markets Central London
The university town of London, Ontario gets insufficient credit for its local thrifting culture. Flea & Street Markets Central London represents the nexus of this vibrant community, offering an eclectic mix of vintage finds, handcrafted goods, and local specialties. Operating year-round in the downtown core, this bustling marketplace features over 50 vendors spread across 15,000 square feet of indoor space, with additional outdoor stalls during warmer months. Popular among students and locals alike, it’s known for its affordable treasures, friendly atmosphere, and frequently rotating inventory. Visitors appreciate the market’s commitment to supporting local artisans and small businesses, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Ontario’s diverse flea market scene.
Sudbury Market
At the heart of Northern Ontario’s largest city, the Sudbury Market offers a distinctive shopping experience that reflects the region’s diverse character. While the historic downtown farmers’ market has long been a staple for locals seeking fresh produce and artisanal goods, the area’s market scene is expanding with exciting new additions. Most notably, the Red Leaf Flea Market opened on November 30 at Elm Place in downtown Sudbury.
This new marketplace now operates six days a week, providing residents and visitors with consistent access to unique vendors, collectibles, and locally crafted items. The addition of Red Leaf complements Sudbury’s existing market culture, creating a more robust year-round shopping destination that showcases creativity and entrepreneurial spirit alongside tangible vintage finds and handmade crafts.
Gananoque Flea Market
True flea market fans know that it isn’t always the biggest and most well-known markets that offer the best treasures. The Gananoque Flea Market, nestled in the picturesque town of Gananoque, Ontario, proves them right.
A friendly community atmosphere, reasonable prices, and the authentic local character that larger commercial markets often lack await at 145 River Street, which operates on unusually generous weekend hours and even some long weekends.
HWY 404 & Steeles Flea Market
Venture just a bit off the beaten path to discover Toronto’s bustling HWY 404 & Steeles Flea Market. Here, hundreds of vendors come together on weekends to sell everything from vintage collectibles to handmade creations. It’s a truly community-based affair – merchants sign up online before undergoing a simple vetting process to ensure quality and variety. Visits are made more rewarding by Flea Bucks – a coupon system unique to this specific venue.
The market boasts an impressive selection of international goods, antiques, clothing, electronics, and even has a food court. It’s open year-round on weekends from 10 AM to 5 PM at a flagship location in Thornhill.
Your Search for the Best Flea Markets in Ontario is Over
Bias doesn’t matter if the opinion is true. HWY 404 & Steeles Flea Market’s claimed title as number one among the best flea markets in Ontario stands upon years of great experiences and community-based transactions. A convenient location, trustworthy vendors, and a constant desire to deliver shoppers with value make every visit here worthwhile. Swing by Saturday or Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM for your next great find.
