Searching for unusual discoveries, old relics, and one-of- a-kind retail encounters. You are covered by the Des Moines flea markets. From antiques and handcrafted objects to fresh food and artisanal cuisine, these markets present an amazing range of products regardless of your level of experience collecting, bargain hunting, or simply enjoyment of local culture.
In this guide, we’ll showcase five top flea markets in Des Moines, complete with all the details you need to plan your visit. From dates and schedules to vendor highlights and nearby attractions, here’s everything you need to know to enjoy Des Moines’ vibrant flea market scene.
1. Iowa State Fairgrounds Flea Market
For those who enjoy flea markets in Des Moines, the Iowa State Fairgrounds Flea Market is absolutely must visited site. Renowned for its large range of suppliers, this market provides everything from handcrafted goods and daily needs to rare antiques and vintage furniture. Held several times a year, it attracts thousands of people and generates a dynamic environment ideal for families and consumers of all ages. Vendors from all throughout the Midwest come to highlight their products, therefore guaranteeing a varied and always changing range with every event.
The friendly surroundings and ease of access to this market are among its attractions. Here you will find lots to appreciate whether your interests are casual shopping for pleasure or seasoned collector searching for unusual items. Food stores with mouthwatering cuisine and snacks enhance the experience and make this a fantastic place to spend the day. Your trip will be much more exciting if the market provides seasonal events including farmers market weekends and holiday themed exhibits. The Iowa State Fairgrounds Flea Market is a pillar of Des Moines’ shopping scene and a place you won’t want to miss with free parking, reasonably priced vendor spaces and an amazing range of goods.
Looking for more market experiences? Explore the Germantown Flea Market for vintage finds and community vibes.
- Address: 3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317
- Dates of Market: Select weekends throughout the year.
- Schedule:
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Stall/Table Rental Price: $40 per day for outdoor spaces; $75 for indoor stalls.
- Contact Number: +1 (515) 262-3111
- Entrance Fee: Free admission for visitors.
Where to Buy Tickets
No tickets are required. Vendor spaces can be reserved through the official website.
Nearest T Stations
- Des Moines Area Transit (DART) – Route 17 – 5-minute walk.
Events
- Antique Showcase Weekends: Featuring rare and vintage collectibles.
- Farmers’ Market Specials: Fresh produce and artisanal foods.
- Holiday Market: Seasonal décor and gifts.
Famous Shops or Stalls to Visit
- Rustic Charm: Vintage home décor and furniture.
- Crafty Creations: Handmade jewelry and accessories.
- The Book Nook: Rare and out-of-print books.
- Gourmet Delights: Locally made snacks and treats.
- Retro Finds: Unique clothing and accessories.
Best Vendors
- Antique Treasures: Specializing in rare collectibles.
- Green Thumb Plants: Indoor plants and gardening supplies.
- Tech Essentials: Affordable gadgets and electronics.
- Sweet Treats Co.: Homemade cookies and pies.
- Handcrafted Haven: Unique artisan goods.
Parking and Fees
- Parking Fee: Free parking available on-site.
Nearby Hotels
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown
- Hilton Des Moines Downtown
- Surety Hotel
Nearby Restaurants
- Zombie Burger + Drink Lab: Gourmet burgers with a twist.
- La Mie Bakery: Fresh pastries and coffee.
- Fong’s Pizza: Unique pizza creations.
2. Collectors’ Paradise Flea Market
Antique enthusiasts and those driven by passion for unusual objects will find paradise at the Collectors’ Paradise Flea Market. With everything from rare furniture and vintage clothes to one-of- a-kind home décor goods, this market is notable for its well chosen vendor line. While looking at gems from all eras, customers can enjoy a laid-back, friendly environment.
With its central location in Des Moines, the market attracts both seasoned collectors and casual shoppers. Events like antique appraisals and live music make each visit an engaging experience, while vendors consistently offer fresh and unique finds. The Collectors’ Paradise Flea Market is not just a place to shop; it’s a community space where locals and visitors connect over their shared love of vintage and handmade goods.
Address: 1200 E Euclid Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316
Dates of Market: Every third weekend of the month.
Schedule:
Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Stall/Table Rental Price: $50 per day.
Contact Number: +1 (515) 555-4567
Entrance Fee: $2 per person.
Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets are available at the entrance or through the market’s Facebook page.
Nearest T Stations
- DART – Route 3 – 10-minute walk.
Events
- Antique Appraisal Days: Free evaluations by experts.
- Seasonal Craft Fairs: Showcasing handmade goods.
- Live Music Sundays: Local bands performing.
Famous Shops or Stalls to Visit
- Vintage Vibes: Mid-century modern furniture.
- Rustic Revival: Farmhouse décor and antiques.
- The Jewelry Box: Handcrafted necklaces and bracelets.
- Eco Finds Sustainable home goods.
- Sweet Tooth Treats: Homemade candies and chocolates.
Best Vendors
- Retro Rarities: Vintage clothing and accessories.
- Golden Finds: Rare coins and collectibles.
- Artisan Alley: Handmade pottery and ceramics.
- The Vinyl Vault: Classic records and memorabilia.
- Fresh Bakes Co.: Delicious cakes and pastries.
Parking and Fees
- Parking Fee: Free parking available on-site.
Nearby Hotels
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown
- Hilton Des Moines Downtown
- Holiday Inn Des Moines Downtown
Nearby Restaurants
- La Mie Bakery: Famous for its fresh pastries and artisan breads.
- Fong’s Pizza: Known for its creative pizza options with a local twist.
- Zombie Burger + Drink Lab: A unique spot offering gourmet burgers and shakes.
3. What Cheer Flea Market
One of Iowa’s biggest and most well-liked flea markets, the What Cheer Flea Market is just one hour from Des Moines Celebrated three times a year at the venerable Keokuk County Fairgrounds, this treasure mine for families looking for a distinctive shopping experience, bargain hunters and collectors is Spread across several acres, this market presents an amazing range of products including antiques, vintage finds, handcrafted crafts and locally grown food from hundreds of sellers.
The sheer scope and variety of the market draw one in especially. Vendors from all throughout the Midwest come to highlight their goods, therefore guaranteeing a combination of rare collectibles, restored furniture, and oddball objects not found anywhere else. Apart from its wide range of stores, the What Cheer Flea Market organises unique activities including farm equipment fairs and vintage exhibits, so providing even more thrill. This site provides something for everyone regardless of your level of dedication to collecting or just love of browsing unusual markets. Affordable parking, reasonable admission costs, and a lively community environment all to explain why both locals and guests of Des Moines now often attend the What Cheer Flea Market.
- Address: Keokuk County Fairgrounds, 13061 170th St, What Cheer, IA 50268
- Dates of Market: Held three times a year – May, August, and October.
- Schedule:
- Friday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Stall/Table Rental Price: $35 per day for outdoor spaces; $60 for covered stalls.
- Contact Number: +1 (641) 634-2109
- Entrance Fee: $3 per person; free for children under 12.
Where to Buy Tickets
Tickets are available at the gate or via the official website.
Nearest T Stations
- Des Moines Amtrak Station – 1-hour drive.
Events
- Antique Bonanza: Featuring rare finds from various eras.
- Craft Showcase: Local artisans display their handmade goods.
- Seasonal Décor Sale: Holiday-themed items for all seasons.
Famous Shops or Stalls to Visit
- Antique Alley: Rare furniture and collectibles.
- The Vinyl Stop: Vintage records and music memorabilia.
- Rustic Finds: Farmhouse-style home goods.
- Craft Corner: Unique handmade gifts.
- Sweet Delights: Homemade fudge and candies.
Best Vendors
- Vintage Wonders: Specializing in mid-century collectibles.
- Green Market Goods: Fresh produce and organic items.
- Artisan Pottery: Handmade ceramics and kitchenware.
- Golden Treasures: Rare jewelry and watches.
- Baked Bliss: Delicious pastries and desserts.
Parking and Fees
- Parking Fee: $5 per vehicle.
4. Downtown Des Moines Bazaar
Attracting consumers with its contemporary offerings and vibrant surroundings, the Downtown Des Moines Vintage Market is a busy metropolitan market. Seasonally housed in the middle of downtown, this market is the go to venue for art lovers, antique enthusiasts and everyone else searching for odd finds. Vendors focus on homemade items, mid-century modern furniture, vintage clothing, and locally produced art, therefore encouraging creativity and style.
The market’s location in downtown Des Moines adds to its appeal, offering visitors easy access to nearby attractions, restaurants, and entertainment. Customers can savour mouthwatering cuisine from on-site vendors or adjacent food trucks, see the well chosen displays, and enjoy live music from local artists. The Downtown Des Moines Vintage Market guarantees always something fresh and interesting to discover by regularly organising events including themed vintage exhibits and hand-made pop-up stores. Families, groups, and single consumers will find this market perfect for free admission, lots of street parking, and its central location. This market offers a great and fun experience right in the middle of Des Moines whether your search is for a unique antique or you want to help local artists.
- Address: 500 Locust St, Des Moines, IA 50309
- Dates of Market: Every Saturday from May through September.
- Schedule:
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Stall/Table Rental Price: $40 per day.
- Contact Number: +1 (515) 555-7890
- Entrance Fee: Free admission.
Where to Buy Tickets
No tickets are required. Vendors can apply online via the market’s website.
Nearest T Stations
- DART – Route 17 – 5-minute walk.
Events
- Farmers’ Market Weekends: Fresh local produce and artisanal foods.
- Craft and Art Pop-Ups: Unique handmade goods.
- Live Music Saturdays: Featuring local bands and performers.
Famous Shops or Stalls to Visit
- The Artisan Collective: Handmade jewelry and décor.
- Urban Vintage: Retro clothing and accessories.
- Fresh Provisions: Organic fruits, vegetables, and baked goods.
- Vinyl Vault: Rare records and music memorabilia.
- Gourmet Treats Co.: Artisan snacks and sweets.
Best Vendors
- Eco Artisan Goods: Sustainable and handmade products.
- Rustic Revival: Vintage furniture and home décor.
- Creative Crafts: Unique gifts and seasonal décor.
- The Coffee Nook: Freshly brewed coffee and pastries.
- The Plant Boutique: Indoor plants and succulents.
Parking and Fees
- Parking Fee: Free street parking is available.
5. Heartland Flea Market
The Heartland Bazaar Flea Market is a charming local market in Des Moines that’s perfect for shoppers seeking a mix of handcrafted goods, vintage finds, and fresh local produce. Held monthly, this market combines the feel of a small-town bazaar with the variety and quality of a larger event. Vendors at the Heartland Bazaar are known for their creativity and dedication, offering a range of items from handmade jewelry and home décor to antique treasures and sustainable products.
The Heartland Bazaar Flea Market is unique in that it emphasises community building. Families can explore the wide range of booths and enjoy live entertainment, handicap activities, and craft classes for children. Local food sellers enhance the experience by offering anything from gourmet delicacies to comfort cuisine. The market also gives small companies and artists a very cheap stage to present their creations, therefore guaranteeing an always changing range of goods. Locals as well as guests seeking a unique shopping experience in Des Moines love this flea market for free parking, friendly surroundings and simple public transportation access.
- Address: 7501 Madison Ave, Urbandale, IA 50322
- Dates of Market: Open year-round.
- Schedule:
- Friday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Stall/Table Rental Price: $30 per day.
- Contact Number: +1 (515) 555-1234
- Entrance Fee: Free admission.
Where to Buy Tickets
No tickets required. Vendor spaces can be reserved at the entrance.
Nearest T Stations
- DART – Route 72 – 10-minute drive.
Events
- Antique Fair: Featuring local antique dealers.
- Craft Fair Extravaganza: Handmade goods for all occasions.
- Family Fun Days: Activities and games for kids.
Famous Shops or Stalls to Visit
- The Antique Den: Rare collectibles and vintage goods.
- Fresh Finds Market: Organic produce and honey.
- Crafty Corner: Handmade décor and gifts.
- Rustic Treasures: Farmhouse-style furniture.
- Sweet Treats Co.: Homemade pies and cookies.
Best Vendors
- Golden Finds: Specializing in unique antiques.
- Creative Hands: Artisan crafts and gifts.
- Fresh Harvest Co.: Local fruits and vegetables.
- The Vinyl Spot: Rare and collectible records.
- Baked Bliss: Delicious cakes and breads.
Parking and Fees
- Parking Fee: Free parking available on-site.
The Bottom Line
Des Moines boasts a rich selection of flea markets, offering everything from antiques to handmade crafts. Whether you visit the expansive Iowa State Fairgrounds Flea Market or the charming Heartland Flea Market, there’s something for everyone.
