When you think of vibrant weekend experiences in Colorado, the Mile High Flea Market should absolutely be on your list. Located just outside Denver in Henderson, this sprawling 80-acre marketplace has earned its reputation as the state’s largest year-round, open-air market. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Colorado Springs Flea Market for another great local experience. Discover even more amazing flea markets in Colorado to plan your next treasure-hunting trip. It’s not just a place to shop it’s an entire experience that brings together thousands of locals and tourists every weekend, creating a unique cultural destination that has become an integral part of Colorado’s community.
What Makes Mile High Flea Market Special?
The Mile High Flea Market isn’t your typical shopping center. This is a dynamic, vibrant hub that combines shopping, dining, entertainment, and family-friendly fun all in one massive outdoor space. With over 3,000 vendors spread across 80 acres, you’ll discover an incredible variety of goods that caters to every taste and budget. Whether you’re a serious collector hunting for rare antiques, a bargain seeker looking for incredible deals, or a family wanting to spend quality time together, this market has something special waiting for you.
What sets this flea market apart from other shopping experiences is its authentic, community-driven atmosphere. The energy you feel when walking through the vendors is palpable there’s a sense of excitement and discovery that you simply won’t find in traditional retail environments. From early morning to late afternoon, the market buzzes with activity, laughter, and the thrill of the hunt.
Location and Easy Access
Situated at 7007 E 88th Ave, Henderson, CO 80640, the Mile High Flea Market is conveniently positioned near major highways. Located at the intersection of I-76 and 88th Ave, getting there is straightforward whether you’re driving from downtown Denver or coming from surrounding areas. visit these flea markets throughout Colorado. The market’s excellent accessibility makes it a stress-free destination for travelers from all over Colorado and beyond.
For those using public transportation, local bus routes make visiting simple and accessible. This inclusive approach to transportation ensures that everyone in the community can enjoy this landmark experience, regardless of whether they have a vehicle or not.
Contact Information
- Phone: (303) 289-4656
- Address: 7007 E 88th Ave, Henderson, CO 80640
- Website: Available for vendor inquiries and additional information
Operating Hours and Schedule
The Mile High Flea Market operates year-round, making it an excellent weekend destination throughout all seasons. Understanding the schedule helps you plan your visit effectively and take advantage of the best days for deals.
| Day | Operating Hours | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Closed | – |
| Tuesday | Closed | – |
| Wednesday | Closed | – |
| Thursday | Closed | – |
| Friday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Open |
| Saturday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Open |
| Sunday | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Open |
The market opens its gates every Friday through Sunday, giving weekend shoppers plenty of opportunity to visit. The early 7 AM opening time is particularly beneficial for serious treasure hunters who want to get first pick of the newest inventory and the best deals.
Admission Pricing and Entry Options
One of the most appealing aspects of the Mile High Flea Market is its affordable admission structure. The tiered pricing system ensures that everyone can afford to visit without breaking the bank, whether you’re coming for a quick weekend visit or planning multiple trips.
Ticket Pricing Breakdown
| Ticket Type | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Friday Admission | $2 per person | Most affordable single-day option |
| Saturday Admission | $3 per person | Mid-week pricing |
| Sunday Admission | $4 per person | Peak weekend day |
| 3-Day Weekend Pass | $6 per person | Best value for full weekend experience |
| Children Under 8 | Free | Complimentary entry for young children |
| Annual Buyer’s Pass | $89 | Unlimited entries for one year |
For families and frequent visitors, the pricing structure is designed to be accessible and rewarding. If you plan to visit more than a few times per year, the Annual Buyer’s Pass at just $89 quickly pays for itself. For a single weekend family outing, the 3-Day Weekend Pass at $6 per person offers exceptional value for an entire day’s entertainment.
Parking and Transportation
The Mile High Flea Market understands that getting around comfortably is essential to enjoying your visit. The facility offers ample, completely free parking designed to accommodate the massive influx of visitors every weekend.
Parking Features
The spacious parking lots can handle thousands of vehicles including cars, buses, and RVs. Even during peak weekend hours, the parking infrastructure is designed to make entry and exit convenient and stress-free. This thoughtful planning ensures that families and visitors don’t spend excessive time searching for parking spots, allowing them more time to explore the market itself.
RV and bus parking areas are specifically designated, making this an excellent destination for group trips and travelers. Whether you’re pulling up in a sedan or a large recreational vehicle, you’ll find accommodations that suit your needs without any additional charges.
What You’ll Find at Mile High Flea Market
With over 3,000 vendors on site, the product diversity is truly staggering. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you can expect to find during your visit.
Product Categories and Vendor Types
The market features an astounding variety of goods across multiple categories:
Antiques & Collectibles: This section is a treasure trove for collectors and history enthusiasts. You’ll find vintage furniture with authentic patina, restored retro pieces, vinyl records from every era, rare coins and numismatic items, vintage signs and memorabilia, and unique artifacts that tell stories of the past. These vendors often have deep knowledge about their items and love sharing the history behind their finds.
Handmade Crafts and Artisan Products: Support local artists and makers at these vendors selling unique jewelry pieces, hand-painted art and original paintings, custom home décor items, artisan candles and soaps, and one-of-a-kind crafted goods. Each item purchased directly supports Colorado’s creative community.
Fresh Produce and Farmers Market Goods: This vibrant section features locally grown fruits and vegetables at their freshest, seasonal produce you won’t find in regular grocery stores, locally produced honey and preserves, homemade jams and jellies, fresh flowers and plants, and farm-to-table products that support local agricultural businesses. The Farmers Market Section is particularly popular on weekend mornings.
Clothing and Fashion Accessories: Browse through new garments, quality used clothing and vintage fashion pieces, designer-inspired items at bargain prices, accessories like belts and handbags, and seasonal clothing perfect for Colorado’s changing weather.
Electronics and Tools: Find affordable tech gadgets and electronics, used and refurbished computers, car parts and automotive accessories, power tools and home improvement supplies, and hard-to-find replacement parts at competitive prices.
Food and Dining Options: The culinary experience at Mile High Flea Market deserves special mention. Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy classic American burgers and BBQ, international street food from various cultures, homemade baked goods, churros and sweet treats, beverages and refreshments, and full meal options to refuel during your shopping marathon.
Vendor Rental Information
If you’re interested in becoming a vendor, the market offers flexible rental options to accommodate different business models and budgets:
| Space Type | Size | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farmers Market Space | 10×10 feet | $15–$32 per day | Small produce vendors, crafters |
| Standard Outdoor Space | 12×25 feet | Approximately $444/month | Established vendors with regular inventory |
| Corner Spaces | Variable | Premium pricing | Vendors seeking high-traffic visibility |
| Daily Rental | Any size | Day-specific rates | New or occasional vendors |
| Weekend Rental | Any size | Weekend package rates | Vendors testing the market |
| Monthly Rental | Any size | Monthly rates | Full-time market vendors |
The flexibility of the rental structure makes it possible for newcomers to test the market with minimal financial commitment, while established vendors can secure consistent placement for year-round operations.
Iconic Shops and Must-Visit Stalls
While the beauty of the Mile High Flea Market is discovering your own hidden gems, certain stalls have become legendary among regular visitors and deserve special mention.
The Farmers Market Section
This colorful hub bursts with energy and fresh aromas. Picture rows of vendor stands overflowing with seasonal produce, vibrant green vegetables, baskets of freshly picked fruits, jars of artisan honey and preserves, bundles of fresh flowers, and homemade products from local farmers. It’s the perfect place to support local agriculture while stocking up on dinner ingredients or fresh snacks.
Vintage Collectibles Corner
For those who appreciate history and nostalgia, this section is absolutely magnetic. Vendors here specialize in authentic antiques, vinyl records from every generation, retro furniture pieces, vintage signs and memorabilia, rare collectible items, and preserved pieces that transport you back in time. Many vendors in this section are passionate collectors themselves who love connecting items with enthusiastic buyers.
Clothing and Accessories Vendors
Whether you’re looking for trendy contemporary fashion, vintage clothing finds, designer-inspired pieces at a fraction of retail prices, or unique accessories to complete your wardrobe, the clothing section offers exceptional value. With so many vendors competing for attention, prices are remarkably competitive.
International and Local Food Stalls
The food court area showcases culinary diversity, featuring everything from classic American BBQ and burgers to authentic Mexican street food, Asian cuisine, Mediterranean options, traditional churros and desserts, and fresh beverages. Many vendors have built loyal followings, with regular customers seeking them out by reputation.
Carnival Rides Section
Families particularly love this area, with attractions designed for children and teenagers. The rides add a carnival atmosphere to the market, transforming it into more than just a shopping destination. Kids can enjoy games and entertainment while parents browse nearby vendor stalls.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips for First-Timers
Visiting an 80-acre flea market for the first time can feel overwhelming. With so much to see and experience, having a solid game plan makes your visit infinitely more enjoyable and productive.
Arrive Early for the Best Selections
The early morning hours, especially right when the market opens at 7 AM, offer significant advantages. Vendors are freshly restocked with their best inventory, making this the prime time to discover hidden gems and the best deals. Early birds also encounter smaller crowds, allowing for more leisurely browsing and conversation with vendors. If you’re a serious collector or bargain hunter, arriving within the first hour is highly recommended.
Bring Plenty of Cash
While the market does have ATMs available, many vendors—particularly the older, established ones—prefer or exclusively accept cash. Having cash on hand makes transactions quicker and can sometimes lead to better negotiating opportunities. Additionally, cash reduces the need to leave the market to find an ATM, which could cause you to miss other vendor stalls. Consider bringing a mix of small bills and coins to facilitate quick transactions.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
This cannot be overstated: comfortable shoes are absolutely essential. With 80 acres to explore and potentially thousands of vendor stalls to browse, you’ll be doing substantial walking. Worn-in sneakers, supportive walking shoes, or comfortable casual footwear will make the experience far more enjoyable. Blisters and sore feet can quickly turn a fun day into an uncomfortable one.
Stay Hydrated and Don’t Skip Meals
Bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during summer months. While the market offers abundant food options, prices at vendor stalls are competitive but still add up over the course of a full day. Consider eating breakfast before arriving or packing light snacks. However, part of the market experience is sampling the various food vendors—try to balance hydration and nutrition with enjoying the culinary offerings.
Check the Weather Forecast
Since the Mile High Flea Market is completely open-air, weather significantly impacts your experience. Check the forecast before your visit and dress appropriately. In summer, bring sunscreen and a hat for protection. During spring and fall, bring a light jacket for temperature changes. If rain is predicted, bring an umbrella or rain jacket, as the open-air setting offers limited shelter. Colorado weather can be unpredictable, so checking conditions the morning of your visit is wise.
Create a Strategic Route Plan
Given the massive size of the market, having a loose plan increases your efficiency and enjoyment. Mentally map out your must-visit sections—whether that’s the Farmers Market, Vintage Collectibles, or Food Court areas. Plan a logical route that minimizes backtracking. However, leave room for spontaneous discoveries; some of the best finds come from wandering into unexpected vendor stalls.
Why Mile High Flea Market Deserves Your Visit
Beyond the practical details of what to buy and where to go, the Mile High Flea Market represents something more significant in Colorado’s cultural landscape. It’s a place where community, tradition, and entertainment intersect in a uniquely American way.
A Treasure Trove for Every Interest
Whether you’re a serious antique collector seeking that missing piece for your collection, a bargain hunter thrilled by the challenge of finding exceptional deals, a family looking for weekend entertainment that won’t break the bank, or someone simply interested in experiencing authentic Colorado culture, this market accommodates all interests. The sheer diversity of vendors ensures that you’ll find something appealing regardless of your preferences.
Accessible to Everyone
The affordable admission pricing, free parking, public transportation access, and free entry for young children make this destination genuinely inclusive. This isn’t an exclusive shopping experience reserved for those with disposable income; it’s a community gathering place where people from all socioeconomic backgrounds participate. This accessibility is a core part of why locals have embraced it as a beloved tradition.
A Living, Breathing Community Space
The market isn’t static or sterile. It’s alive with energy, personality, and human connection. Vendors build relationships with regular customers, local farmers reconnect with community members who value their produce, craftspeople find audiences who appreciate their work, and families create memories together exploring the stalls.
Supporting Local Economy
Shopping at Mile High Flea Market directly supports Colorado businesses, artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs. When you purchase from a vendor, you’re not enriching a distant corporation you’re putting money directly into local hands and supporting small business growth in your community.
Instagram-Worthy Moments: Capture Your Experience
In today’s world, part of the fun is sharing your experiences on social media. The Mile High Flea Market provides abundant opportunities for memorable photos and shareable moments:
Colorful Vendor Stalls: The sheer variety and eclectic presentation of goods creates naturally vibrant photo backdrops. Rows of vintage items, artistic arrangements of handmade crafts, and the rainbow of seasonal produce all make excellent subjects for photography.
Fresh Produce Displays: The Farmers Market section is particularly photogenic, with baskets overflowing with colorful fruits and vegetables, creating naturally appealing compositions that evoke farm-to-table authenticity.
Families Enjoying Attractions: Capture candid moments of families laughing on carnival rides, children enjoying treats, and genuine joy that characterizes the market atmosphere. These authentic human moments resonate powerfully on social media.
Food Photography: The culinary offerings are undeniably photogenic. Perfectly plated BBQ, artfully presented churros, colorful international dishes, and refreshing beverages all photograph beautifully and tell the story of the market’s diverse food scene.
The Expansive Open-Air Layout: Step back and capture the sheer scale and energy of the market. Wide-angle shots showing the vast vendor setup, the morning light hitting rows of stalls, and the bustling crowds convey the market’s dynamic character.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mile High Flea Market
Q1: What are the exact operating hours of Mile High Flea Market?
The Mile High Flea Market is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the entire year. This consistent schedule makes it easy to plan your visit as a regular weekend tradition or special outing.
Q2: What is the admission cost and are there discounts available?
Admission is tiered based on the day of the week: $2 on Friday, $3 on Saturday, and $4 on Sunday. Children under 8 enter free, and a 3-Day Weekend Pass is available for $6 per person. For frequent visitors, the Annual Buyer’s Pass at $89 offers unlimited entries for 12 months.
Q3: Is parking really free and can I bring an RV?
Yes, parking is completely free for all vehicles including cars, trucks, buses, and RVs. The market provides ample parking with designated areas for larger vehicles, making it convenient regardless of what you drive.
Q4: What kind of payment methods do vendors accept?
While most modern vendors accept credit and debit cards, cash remains popular and often preferred, particularly at traditional vendor stalls. ATMs are available on-site, but bringing cash beforehand is recommended for smoother transactions and potential negotiating opportunities.
Q5: Are pets allowed at the Mile High Flea Market?
The official website does not specify a comprehensive pet policy. To ensure your pet is welcome and to understand any restrictions that might apply, contact the market directly at (303) 289-4656 before bringing your furry friends.
Q6: How can I become a vendor at Mile High Flea Market?
Vendors can rent spaces with flexible options including daily, weekend, or monthly rentals. Farmers Market spaces (10×10 feet) range from $15–$32 per day, while larger outdoor spaces (12×25 feet) cost approximately $444 per month. For information about available spaces and the application process, contact the market directly.
Q7: What is the best time of year to visit Mile High Flea Market?
The market operates year-round, so you can visit any time. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather conditions. Summer weekends are particularly busy with families. Winter visits are less crowded but require weather-appropriate clothing. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (spring/fall) for ideal conditions with moderate crowds.
Q8: How long should I plan to spend at the market?
With 80 acres and over 3,000 vendors, plan for at least 3–4 hours for a meaningful visit. Serious collectors and bargain hunters often spend 5–6 hours. Early risers can make a full day of it, arriving at opening and staying through mid-afternoon.
Q9: Are there dining options available at the market?
Yes, abundant food and beverage options are available throughout the market. From classic American BBQ and burgers to international street food, baked goods, churros, and refreshments, you can enjoy meals and snacks without leaving the premises.
Q10: Is the market accessible for people with mobility challenges?
The open-air layout with paved parking and vendor aisles is generally accessible. However, with 80 acres to cover and the potential need to walk significant distances, visitors with mobility concerns should plan accordingly. Contacting the market directly for specific accessibility accommodations is recommended.
Nearby Accommodations for Extended Visits
If you’re planning a longer trip or traveling from out of state, Henderson and surrounding areas offer various lodging options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
For travelers watching their expenses, Henderson and Commerce City have several affordable motels and inns that provide basic, clean accommodations. These options are perfect for weekend trips where you’re spending most of your time at the market and just need a place to sleep and freshen up.
Mid-Range Hotels
Popular hotel chains in the area offer family-friendly amenities including free breakfast (which is convenient before an early market visit), reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, and often swimming pools. These options provide a good balance between comfort and value.
Upscale and Boutique Options
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, downtown Denver offers sophisticated boutique hotels and upscale chains with stylish rooms, premium amenities, and proximity to other Denver attractions. Staying in downtown Denver allows you to explore Colorado’s capital in the evenings after market visits.
The proximity of accommodations makes Mile High Flea Market an excellent centerpiece for a longer Colorado weekend getaway.
Exploring Beyond Mile High: Other Colorado Flea Markets
While Mile High Flea Market is the state’s largest year-round market, Colorado has other excellent flea markets worth exploring as you develop your collecting interests or bargain-hunting hobby.
The Colorado Springs Flea Market offers a similar experience in a different setting. Exploring multiple markets across the state can diversify your finds and introduce you to different vendor communities. Each market develops its own character and vendor base, providing unique shopping experiences.
Final Thoughts: Your Invitation to a Colorado Tradition
The Mile High Flea Market transcends the typical definition of a shopping destination. It’s a cultural institution, a weekend tradition for thousands of Coloradans, and a unique experience that captures something essential about American community life. The affordability of admission, the incredible diversity of products, the entertainment options, and the palpable energy create an experience that genuinely justifies its status as one of Colorado’s most iconic attractions.
Whether you’re a seasoned flea market veteran or visiting for the first time, the Mile High Flea Market welcomes you to join the thousands of locals and tourists who visit every weekend. Come hunting for treasure, supporting local artisans, finding exceptional bargains, or simply experiencing the vibrant community that makes this 80-acre marketplace special. Whatever brings you through the gates, you’ll discover that the Mile High Flea Market lives up to its legendary reputation.
