Region
Shipshewana, a quaint town in northeastern Indiana, has a unique charm as not only is it a typical small town, but it is also home to a vibrant and thriving Amish community. But what really sets Shipshewana apart is its claim to fame as the home of the largest flea market in the entire Midwest: the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market.
What began as a modest home business in 1922 has grown into a sprawling, must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Covering an impressive 100 acres, this open-air market now boasts nearly 700 booths, making it a shopping haven for those seeking hidden gems and great bargains.
The variety of products available at the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market is astounding. From timeless vintage items to contemporary furniture, fashionable clothing and unique home decor, visitors can browse through an eclectic mix of goods. For those looking for quirky novelties, handcrafted furniture or creatively repurposed crafts, this market proves to be an absolute paradise. In addition, fresh seasonal produce and handmade goods add a touch of local flavor to the shopping experience. Whether you're in need of cleaning supplies, snacks or accessories, this flea market has it all and then some.
One of the pleasures of this unique shopping experience is the opportunity to bargain with the vendors. While most vendors are open to negotiation, it's no secret that the best prices are often found toward the end of the day when vendors are winding down and eager to sell.
But the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market isn't just about bargain hunting. On Wednesdays, visitors have the added opportunity to attend the weekly Shipshewana Miscellaneous & Antique Auction, conveniently located on the same grounds. The auction begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. with the lively ringing of the bell, signaling the start of a captivating spectacle. With six to ten auctioneers orchestrating the event, an array of treasures are put up for bid, including antiques, collectibles, estate items, primitives, glassware, furniture, and architectural salvage, among other fascinating pieces.
To ensure that visitors have a pleasant shopping experience, the market offers a number of amenities for rent. Electric scooters, wagons and shopping carts are available near the main entrance at booth #1018. These handy tools help shoppers navigate the vast expanse of the market with ease. Trolleys are available for $10 per day, while shopping carts can be rented for $5. For those who prefer a more leisurely ride, electric scooters are available for $10 per hour, with a minimum two-hour rental.
Jennifer Mitchell
13th May 2016 at 05:29Love the auction! Great old things at great old prices! Outstanding place to spend your day!
Lori Reed
8th July 2016 at 03:08Shipshewana Flea Market is a “must-do” for area visitors. It’s huge! I’ve watched it grow from when it was just a little row of tables selling antiques. On hot days, it’s VERY hot there in the sun, but they’ve done a good job of adding concession/food stands as well as a few places where you can just sit in the shade. Bathrooms are a little less frequent, but certainly available with plenty of stalls. I love the produce and plant aisles…wonderful in-season fruit and beautiful annuals and perennials available.