Brooklyn Flea

https://ny.eater.com/2024/10/1/24258833/bq-flea-market-vintage-food-stand-betty-jo

Can a New Flea Market Attract Shoppers Under the BQE? | Eater NY

"As the producer behind the new BQ Flea, I recognize the Brooklyn Flea as the biggest name behind flea markets in the city and the precursor to Smorgasburg; it runs seasonal events in Dumbo (under the Manhattan Bridge), a Chelsea parking lot, and other North Brooklyn locations and has helped launch food vendors that went on to greater success." - Emma Orlow

https://www.eater.com/23353137/baby-boom-movie-diane-keaton-romcom-artisan-baby-food

Nancy Meyers’s ’80s Rom-Com ‘Baby Boom’ Predicted the Artisan Food Boom of the Aughts | Eater

"A popular open-air market depicted as a symbolic launchpad for small-batch artisans and makers, where entrepreneurs set up stalls to sell hand-crafted goods; the piece uses it to represent the romanticized artisanal-movement narrative in which overnight success, curated nostalgia, and trendy branding could propel vendors from market tables to wider media attention and commercial success." - Rebecca Flint Marx

The Best Spots in Brooklyn

"Sure, the main draw of the Brooklyn Flea is the opportunity to shop from the hundreds of vintage and antique vendors, but we also go for the awesome street food. The markets take place outdoors from April through Thanksgiving (Saturdays in Fort Greene and Sundays in Dumbo) and indoors in the landmark former Williamsburgh Savings Bank from Thanksgiving through March."

The Brooklyn Guide

Yany Avelar

Google

Went on a Saturday around noon and it was PACKED, but also to be expected. Such a fun place to find unique finds from local makers and sellers. Prices vary widely depending on the goods, but something for every budget, I think. Also, had some great food options. Had some empanadas from the Colombian food stand there and it was amazing. Definitely a fun activity to explore at least once.

Ozge Ustundag

Google

I had high hopes for the Brooklyn Flea, but it ended up being one of the more disappointing stops on our trip. Though the venue itself was fairly spacious and well-organized, the offerings felt uninspired and surprisingly overpriced. There were only a handful of vendors that stood out, and the kind of charming, unexpected discoveries I associate with European flea markets just weren’t there. Perhaps it depends on the week, or the weather, or even the season—but on our visit, the experience was lackluster. If you’re into vintage shopping, there are far better options elsewhere in the city

Jessica Bricker

Google

I went in with low expectations because recently the last several “flea” markets I traveled to were more like boutique markets or too many vendors all the same. At the time I went the vendors were great! Wide variety and reasonable prices.

Arlene James

Google

I love this fair! It's so much fun. The vendors are diverse and interesting and the location can't be beat. Chances are, you'll run into a friend or two. Shout out to the African brother who sells the most beautiful textiles and jewelry. I bought a fantastic ring from him. You should go!!

0127 C

Google

As a tourist, it’s a great spot to experience different lifestyles. The most popular vendor was selling vintage digital cameras. Other vendors were selling clothes, jewelry, home décor, and more.

Nick S

Google

Brooklyn Flea is a weekend outdoor market selling a wide range of goods such as vintage digital cameras, designer bags, jewelry, and clothes. There are also public restrooms and food offerings during the flea market. The market itself was quite crowded, with little walking room due to the amount of people but overall was still walkable. The storefonts extend under the bridge but also around the bridge, with a wide range of offerings. Prices are on the expensive side, though some good deals were found for various pieces. Overall, a fun spot to go on a date or on an outing in the DUMBO area.

Karol Novaes

Google

Great variety of products. Some sections are a bit overpriced though I really like the camera selection. We got a Fuji for $40!

Anusha reddy (anshaaa)

Google

Went to Brooklyn Flea on the hunt for vintage cameras and I found some gems! 📸✨ Loved every single one I picked up. Aside from that, I noticed most of the jewelry stalls were pretty pricey, definitely on the higher end. Still a fun place to explore if you love vintage finds and unique pieces!

Tony W.

Yelp

What a fun flea to go to! This small flea is great to add on to your walking around Brooklyn. Only thing for me is prices were very spendy on stuff thrifted coats for $200 or vintage NYC maps for $95 bucks. Don't expect to get a steal of a deal here but expect to find unique items for sure.

Tiffany W.

Yelp

The day we went, this market was held outside. Please note I believe it normally is held indoors but due to a wedding, it was moved? Regardless, 4 stars simply for being an open air market (again, at least the day we went). The sun was out, the fresh air felt nice and the vendors were very kind. Many of the items are high priced yet it makes sense as it's not a bargain flea. Contrary, seek out the steals and you will find them or they might come to you! For example, I am not a croc gal but purchased my first pair at this market and I am 99% sure they were brand new. I even got the vendor to knock $5 bucks off bargaining. Additionally when we first entered the space, a food vendor handed us free popcorn chicken with delicious dipping sauce because they claimed it was slow. If you're in the area, there's plenty to check out from jewelry, jerseys, hats, tote bags, concert music tops, antiques, and more. Enjoy!

Rebecca P.

Yelp

Such a fun market to stop by especially if you are already in the Dumbo area! There is a lot of vintage items here that are great to check out. Many of the vendors do take Apple Pay but it never hurts to make sure you have cash! It is pretty large for what it is and there is a great variety in what is offered. Das Open until 5:00pm on Saturdays!

Olivia C.

Yelp

This was a really fun and quick thing to do as an out of town visitor! The flea market is superrrr small but it there's some good, quality stuff there. I bought two beautiful jackets for like $250 because I decided I had to stop buying crap that falls apart and from SHEIN (I think the microplastics from SHEIN are rotting my brain like I drank a cup of soapy water the other day by accident...) and I want more quality items and my jackets did not disappoint. I'd check it out again if I was Brooklyn!

Katie H.

Yelp

unfortunately we went while raining so I feel like there would've normally been more vendors but it still was fun to look at the vendors that were there! Some vendors were under the arch so we could escape the rain which def helped! Dumbo area is cute & worth exploring.

Tatiana D.

Yelp

Love it here! Vendors are all super nice, I will say be prepared to spend some money if you insist on buying here. I noticed a lot of things sold here I can find on Etsy for cheaper but ALSO there was so many really cool finds you probably wouldn't think to even look for online! So still a win in my book

The Critical J.

Yelp

PROS: the flea market has vendors that sell all kinds of things rather than just one general item. Clothes, vintage cameras, toys, artwork, etc. many are priced well CONS: it's cramped so you have to squeeze on by and most of it is outdoors so it's weather permitting OVERALL: amazing shopping area that you have to go to... when the weather is good

Ed U.

Yelp

Gee, if I was a hip Manhattanite with an upscale desire to furnish my SoHo loft with period-appropriate vintage pieces, here I would be. Alas, Jamie W. and I are San Franciscans and stumbled upon the DUMBO market on a particularly crowded Sunday after crossing the even more crowded Brooklyn Bridge. The virulent reality of COVID gave us an unavoidably unsettled feeling about milling about too much, but it was hard to resist the lure of nearly eighty vendors selling furniture, vintage clothing, various collectibles, jewelry, and antiques. Of course, there was a huge food section where people were willing to line up in queues. Queues? They can't possibly be New Yorkers. Someday when the pandemic becomes endemic, we shall return. RELATED - Exploring Brooklyn? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2V51pX7

Lydia C.

Yelp

Classic flea market - had so many vintage magazines and prints as well as vintage shops. Really liked a lot of the Levi's jeans/shorts and bomber jackets but the prices weren't cheap. Wasn't as big as I expected it to be but there were definitely a lot of people (but not overcrowded). Cool Sunday hangout stop for sure

Tom T.

Yelp

An interesting collection of odd items are sold at many different booths, with some of the usual suspects available. Trash or treasure? It's in the eye of the beholder.

Benson Y.

Yelp

I have visited extensions of the Brooklyn Flea in other locations over the years, but oddly I've never visited the original one in DUMBO. One day while wandering the neighborhood I decided to check it out. The market is located around and under one of the large arches under the Manhattan Bridge. This is a perfect location as it really does embody a lot of the artsy, gritty nature of what the Flea tries to capture with its vendors selling a mixture of home made goods, vintage furniture and goods (including magazines, jewelry and more). There is a DJ playing music that echoes in the arch and you can buy vintage records from him to boot! There is a very festive atmosphere that I found welcoming. In terms of pricing, I can't really say it's too high or too low. It really depends on the specific vendor. I saw one vendor asking only a couple bucks for older comic books from the 90's. Another asking only a buck or two for vintage Hot Wheels type cars. Meanwhile, another vendor was selling handmade soap for $20/bar. It really depends on what you are looking for and I presume there is a fair amount of haggling that occurs for vintage items. If you're in DUMBO, definitely take a walk through the Brooklyn Flea. It will be a highlight of the fun walking experience that is this area.

Michael N.

Yelp

The flea market is quaint and fun, and the vendors are very personable. This is a must-visit spot whenever I go to Brooklyn, and it's conveniently located next to the water and Time Out Market.

Truman F.

Yelp

Possibly the "trendiest" flea in New York, you'll be surrounded by gen Z, upcycled (and up-priced) vintage, and a fair amount of junk. While there is a range of prices they definitely skew higher. A fun assortment of vendors and items though most of it will be clothing or antique accessories. The location is iconic, and the partial shade makes it one of the more comfortable fleas. Not the largest.

Michelle G.

Yelp

Clothes are pretty pricey, which is fine if you're willing to spend that amount on unique pieces. I walked away with an art print, vintage postcards, and an original cover of The New Yorker! Would love to come again!

Jeep B.

Yelp

Well, I went with a friend on a very hot August Saturday morning and even through the heat I just loved it. I thought the uniqueness and inspiration was abundant. Of course the prices aren't cheap, but they aren't that expensive either! There were so many unique items and the vendors were so friendly. They take a mix of cash, Zelle, and Venmo. Some only Zelle or Venmo. It was quite crowded which is to be expected in NY. No restrooms so take care of that before you come. I did notice it wasn't very accessible for people with disabilities.

Flora H.

Yelp

After walking the Brooklyn bridge and finding ourselves in Dumbo, we tried to figure out what to do. A quick google search directed us to the flea market which was a bit underwhelming. It was overrun with tourists (like us) that made it difficult to navigate given its small size. But, there was a Tony's Chocolonely guy handing out free candy bars that day so that was a perk. I saw some cool vintage furniture and random collectors items, but nothing that I would actually buy. More for window shopping than actual shopping.

J S.

Yelp

Neutral star rating. I think this is a cute place to visit but I think calling it a flea market is a little outstretched. It's more like a hipster market where you can find some neat items, some vintage, some handmade, etc- but prices will be that of boutique range and not "flea market." Friends of mine who visited the city were disappointed in price points and so was I. It's a small area, not as large as expected but if you enjoy the hunt then you will enjoy it either way. Each to their own! The people selling are very friendly :) Particularly the woman selling socks. The socks are so cute. I didn't purchase because I don't really care about my socks (I lose them after doing laundry ), but she had some adorable designs!

Georgio B.

Yelp

I don't know if it was the Covid cloud or what, but it was a disappointing visit. Def did not live up to the hype. If you're close by, why not, but otherwise you can skip this flea. Only redeeming thing was the Bar car.

Paul B.

Yelp

TL;DR - Hipster heaven. Each time I come to New York, I make a trip to the Flea. I follow their Instagram and love seeing all the weird and wonderful things which come up for sale. Basically you're coming to see a whole host of second hand vendors, and you can find all sorts here from old action figures and badges through to clothing and vintage New Yorker covers. You'll find all kinds of unique and interesting pieces for your home... as long as you like that vintage hipster vibe! My biggest grumble was that I kept seeing things I liked but which I wouldn't trust airline baggage handlers not to break in transit. Also some of the pieces on sale have surprisingly high prices - naturally this is due to their rarity and scarcity but the vendors here know what they've got... come here looking for something unique and quirky, but don't expect to find something priced low by mistake.

Carla L.

Yelp

What a fun experience. We wanted to do something different and love to window shop. This was indoors and offered some great grub too. We found some really awesome art and vintage jewelry even though we went just to look. I would have loved to purchase some of the furniture but since we don't like in NY it would have been a bit difficult to ship. It is a great place to hang out but was pretty full.

Erin K.

Yelp

A third of the "flea" market was a true flea market but the other two-thirds were overpriced thrift stands, vendors selling handcrafted goods, and food stands. I was looking for some good deals, but didn't come across anything I wanted. Most of the flea stand items were trinkets like pins and souvenir spoons, and other knick-knacks. I was looking for a "New York" souvenir spoon but there were only spoons from the other states! Same with the pins. There were purses (saw some Dooney & Burke bags) and t-shirts that you could probably get cheaper at a Goodwill. The thrift vendors had some cute clothing items, but still more expensive than what you could get at Goodwill (which is where they undoubtedly got their merch). Overall, a nice market to check out if you're not necessarily looking for a good deal. It makes a nice morning stroll, and tourists can head to the Brooklyn Bridge afterwards. There are also some cute shops on the bordering streets that would be fun to check out.

Gigi A.

Yelp

Funnn - really, really fun. Lots of chachkies and various items to purchase. You gotta be in the know but once you are, it's awesome. Vendors selling their wares priced to move. Lots of fun items when I went, such as... - $1 fridge magnets! Like if Anthony Weiner! And Mayor Quimby! - A bar cart that I've always wanted for under $100 - Maps! Globes! Other 1900's navigation shit! -Toys and vintage toys -all served under the Brooklyn bridge in an atmosphere of whimsy! -Food trucks and benches to each delicious food such as pizza and fries! I love mayo! They have other non-carb food. Or, you can bring a snack. -accessible via Manhattan commuter ferry God, I love coming here.

Alvin G.

Yelp

Although its not huge I will say that some folks had very unique items, although I think their pricing is questionable depending on the item but sti recommend folks to at least check it out

Linda M.

Yelp

It's super cute but was very crowded. Lots of eclectic stuff. Love the vendors. I would def recommend if you like vintage clothes, Knick knacks, etc and then you can walk around Dumbo where there are so many incredible shops and restaurants

Brenda C.

Yelp

They have a lot of stimulating things going on. It's got an artsy feel to it and the prices are a little bit more expensive but it really is interesting. We saw everything from toys from Dan's Basement to Moonshine. Yes, got two bottles of these. There are food stalls as well. We tried the Jianbing and the Home Frite. For dessert, we had to go for the Dough. We snacked till our bellies were popping out because it was so good. People are really nice and we will definitely come back. This place is not opened on Saturdays.

Leah B.

Yelp

Great selection of vintage, jewelry, cameras, jewelry, clothes and much more. Nice selection of vendors. Great way to spend the morning.

Jema H.

Yelp

This was a super fun thing to discover. We did not know about it but stumbled through on our NY adventure and were really happy we did. Lots of fun items here!

Kaley R.

Yelp

I debated on a three or four for Brooklyn Flea but, alas, have landed on a three. The majority of the vendors' items are quite pricey, and sometimes I'm just not feeling spending an arm and a leg on something that's kind of overpriced, even if it is a really unique piece. (But, negotiating prices could very well be a thing here, I'm not sure though.) But, other than the prices, the market is in a super interesting location, right under the Manhattan Bridge (so the trains above you are pretty noisy), but it adds a lot of charm in a weird, loud way. It feels very secluded and sort of like a secret, even with the masses of people there. There are quite a lot of vendors with lots of unique goods - vintage clothes, kimonos, postcards, jewelry, woodwork, furniture, leather wallets/bags, old subway maps, etc. You could honestly find some really awesome, one-of-a-kind items if you dig enough. I'll definitely come back, especially in the fall for good weather (and hopefully someone selling cider). If you're in the area and want to leisurely stroll around, and may or may not be looking for unique items for your home, definitely check this place out.

Andria M.

Yelp

Loved Brooklyn Flea! Lots of variety and good deals. I found a unique and affordable pair of sunglasses. I didn't buy much since I was visiting from out of state, but thoroughly enjoyed perusing the vendors!

Ceren A.

Yelp

May 1st and it is still rainy and cold outside so Flea Market got it's unfortunate share for the day. We were wandering in DUMBO today and wanted to check flea market too but only 10-15 stands were open. I have seen some furniture, glasses stands, bracelets, necklaces and paintings. There is a light house shaped store selling food and beer as far as I have seen. Dog sculptures were nice around. I do not think they were there before and I do not know if they will stay forever but keep in mind for taking photos when you are around to shop.

Allana D.

Yelp

This is a pretty cool flea market. Fun accessories, cool decor and junk food stands are some of the things you'll find here. I've passed through a few times and don't always pick something up but the shops are always interesting and I enjoy chatting up the shopkeepers as well. It's fun to talk to the artist or creator of the piece you're looking at and they're pretty much always looking to give you a deal that makes it impossible to walk away-pretty win win! The area is great and the location is obviously super cool right next to/under the bridge. Great for a stop during a long walk through Brooklyn : )

Super B.

Yelp

cool place. def worth going. clothing. knick knacks. makes for a nice day trip to dumbo/brooklyn bridge/waterfront.

Natalie H.

Yelp

This review is for the winter market at Atlantic Terminal. Located in an old empty big box store, this is an ideal location for a pop up market, though it's not very romantic or aesthetically pleasing. I was happy to have a place to browse inside though and not be stuck in the cold. I was disappointed that there weren't that many flea market vendors and most of the venue was food vendors with Smorgasburg. Compared to the Christmas markets set up throughout NYC this time of year, there was very little variety available here and not alot of good gift options, which was primarily what I was looking for. The craft/handmade goods vendors were still the highlight of the market though. Purveyors of vintage items and typical flea market stuff were very disappointing - you could find more interesting items at pretty much any thrift store or Goodwill in Brooklyn for half the price.

J G.

Yelp

I went today for the first time. I have been to this location with food trucks setup but my first time experiencing the flea market. It is a nice location. After 20 minutes or so you drown out the noise from the bridge traffic & trains. There was interesting items. I found it to be unique & very pricey. The area was set up well. I kept saying to myself...where do they get this stuff from? It was like turning the calendar back when I saw items from my childhood era. I purchased a butternut squash donut & ginger drink combo for $5. It was very good.

Caro P.

Yelp

Total hipster fun place. Need a new vintage coat, no problem, need old Pyrex dishes, they got it. The list of fun and weird goes on. This is a place more to locals, if you are a tourist you will enjoy it but it really isn't that different from the flea market in your home town. A flea market is a flea market, this is just a fun one.

Ko G.

Yelp

I LOVE IT!! Great prices and excellent ambient. Many different stands with vintage and antiques! One of my favorites places!

Charlotte D.

Yelp

This place is a great mixture of hand crafted finds and thrift stands. A lot of designers and artists selling clothing, upcycled items and knick knacks. There is a beer and wine stand but you can only drink under the bridge. I wish they would open up this regulation to walk throughout the entire flea market (come on, NYC!). Bring money because those hand-made pieces (jumpsuits, upcycled kimonos) are pretty amazing.

Julianne B.

Yelp

I will start by saying I am a bit spoiled because this is right outside my door step every Sunday. Some would say that makes me overexposed, others may say that would make me an experienced commentator on the Dumbo Flea. It is fairly small and being under the manhattan bridge, it is quite loud. It also gets quite crowded no matter what the weather. This makes it tough to walk around and do more than gander at the items for sale. The whole fun of fleas is to dig in there and use your imagination, not shuffle and bump and squeeze. There are several people selling vintage clothes and furs, 70's style furniture, vintage jewelry stands, and children's toys. The guy who sells old ties only seems to show up if its sunny and there is someone making a killing on up selling jewelry with engravings. There is food ! This is the flea's one true redeeming quality. Dough donuts is always there mmmm... I had my cinnamon sugar donut today and it did not dissappoint. Dough is a regular, but sometimes there are ices, pizza, and other vendors too. Ultimately, I find its a poor excuse the leave the apartment and look at old clothes and overpriced knick knacks, but if you want to walk through Brooklyn Bridge Park anyway, then stop and take a look.

Fatma B.

Yelp

I enjoyed going to the flea market, variety of items to see, eat and drink and maybe buy(although kinda pricy).

Rudy R.

Yelp

Their website says there are 80 vendors. I don't know if that was supposed to include food purveyors. Even so I'd say no more than 50 were there yesterday. Weather was amazing, so that's no excuse. We had no issue with the noise, but parking requires patience. We were lucky to find a spot four blocks away. We knew we wouldn't be spending a ton of money unless something amazing appeared, which it didn't. With the internet, and ebay, everyone thinks their stuff is priceless. We came a good ways and were disappointed, so much so that my wife apologized for suggesting we go. Another one off the Bucket List.

Robyn A.

Yelp

Perfect place to stroll, browse, eat, and people watch. Short walk from the F train York St stop and right next to Brooklyn Bridge Park and waterfront. Please note there are only port-o-potties.

Drew P.

Yelp

My rating is solely based on the location. Having enjoyed the Ft Greene and Hanson Place locations for years I will say this one is a bit of a let down. Dumbo is a very nice area to come and visit but I think it was a huge miss to put the flea right under a train track. The constant noise made it hard to talk with the people you were with and the vendors. I will also say the area felt cramped and really tight. The space under the bridge is not as bright and open. Very weird and awkward flow thru the vendors. The other locations of this Flea are all way better. So if you go id suggest going on another day to another location.

Jenna F.

Yelp

Crowded but good food pop-ups. I wasn't too impressed with the flea market items , I feel that you could get things for a better price. Great people watching, funkies welcome.

Fanny S.

Yelp

One of the best flea markets... maybe the best. Really special finds guaranteed. Love to go because I know I'll find something I love!!

Genavee W.

Yelp

Very tight. They have tons of vendors with different things from clothing. Majority of it is vintage and some smaller businesses as well. The food section is awesome with different street food vendors. They have portable bathrooms. It's a little pricey for a flea market but they are some nice finds they.

Ellen S.

Yelp

Curated diverse market of antique, vintage, artisan goods that change weekly. Dumbo under the Manhattan Bridge Arches is like visiting a European Flea Market. Perfect for artists, collectors, decorators andpeople looking for that unique perfect gift. A tourist magnet every weekend, you will hear every language imaginable. A unique must see.

George C.

Yelp

Add trip-friendly cobblestone streets to the always-crowded flea and you have this new Sunday location where the best part is how close it is to the water (though it's unfortunately not on it, nor is there much sunlight), but at least it's nicer than Fort Greene.

Geo V.

Yelp

Really enjoyed our trip to the Dumbo Flea market. It was much larger and more resale vendors than the LIC flea market. The location is fabulous. You can stroll under the Manhattan bridge and shop for vintage goodies. Fun eclectic mix. Take a few minutes to walk down to the waterfront for a view that doesn't disappoint. Loved this place.

Penny W.

Yelp

Great finds, friendly vendors & easy location. I'll return for more vintage threads & jewelry on my next visit in.

https://ny.eater.com/2024/10/1/24258833/bq-flea-market-vintage-food-stand-betty-jo

Can a New Flea Market Attract Shoppers Under the BQE? | Eater NY

https://www.eater.com/23353137/baby-boom-movie-diane-keaton-romcom-artisan-baby-food

Nancy Meyers’s ’80s Rom-Com ‘Baby Boom’ Predicted the Artisan Food Boom of the Aughts | Eater

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