The 4 Best Flea Markets in Calgary for Unique and Out-of-This-World Finds
One of my favorite things to do online is watch celebrity house tours. Apart from admiring the architecture, I love seeing all the unique decor and furniture they have. It seems as if every one of them has a dramatic statement piece.
And more often than not, they say it’s vintage. After hearing this so much, I was influenced to find something cool for my apartment, too. But I didn’t want to just buy one online, I wanted to find something out in the wild.
This is why I did the research and asked the coolest people I know for recommendations. Below, I’ve listed all the flea markets where locals get unique novelties and curiosities.
1. Iron Crow Antiques and Objects of Intrigue
– Media credit: ironcrowyyc
Address: 5746 Burleigh Crescent SE
Contact details: +1 403 287 8770
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
In case you didn’t know, crows have a habit of hoarding shiny objects and interesting knick-knacks in their nests. Well, you’ll be feeling like one of these birds when you visit Iron Crow Antiques and Objects of Intrigue.
This huge shop houses an impressive selection of all kinds of curiosities, from old 8mm movie cameras to taxidermied decor. And if you weren’t aware that it’s a store, there’s a chance you might mistake it for a museum.
Honestly, I could spend days just wandering and exploring inside. You can tell that the owners love what they do based on how they curate the collection and display items.
I promise it’s not all weird and quirky stuff, though. They also sell a bunch of vintage furniture that can still be used today. You’re bound to find something cool for your house, whether that’s a decorative plate or a mantel clock from the 1920s.
| Pro tip: Iron Crow Antiques and Objects of Intrigue adds a new item to their inventory almost every day. In case you’re looking for something specific, you can reach out to them via email at [email protected] |
2. Where On Earth Did You Get That Antique Mall & Vintage Marketplace
– Media credit: whereonearthantiques
Address: 325 Edmonton Trail SE, Airdrie
Contact details: +1 403 948 3669
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to be Indiana Jones, this place should be your next stop. Where On Earth Did You Get That Antique Mall & Vintage Marketplace is a treasure trove of collectibles, trinkets, and vintage finds.
Be warned, though: you should probably block off a whole day if you plan on going here. There are more than 60 vendors inside, with each one selling a fascinating collection of items — you’ll be ooh-ing and ah-ing for hours.
One thing we noticed, too, is that despite most items being over 20 years old, they’re all still in pretty great condition. It’s extremely convenient that they’re always neatly displayed and labelled as well.
Oh, and did we mention that this place is record central? Anyone with a turntable is sure to find a new vinyl to add to their collection.
| Pro tip: It gets pretty busy at this mall, especially on the weekends. If you plan on going here with a car, it’s recommended to arrive early to find parking. |
3. Inside Avenue Antiques
– Media credit: insideavenue
Address: 3419 8 St SE
Contact details: +1 402=3 287 1988
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Stepping into Inside Avenue Antiques feels just like travelling back in time. Here, you’ll be surrounded by antiques, memorabilia, and collectibles from the previous decades.
I think die-hard fans of all kinds will especially like it here. One look around and you’ll already see some vintage jerseys, comic books of every superhero, video game consoles that still work, toys in their original packaging, and so much more.
There are over 70 stalls inside, so you’re bound to find something that speaks to you. Just keep in mind that the mall is split into two and you have to switch buildings to see everything. Some people sadly end up missing the other side completely.
It’s best to come prepared with a budget, too. It usually varies per vendor, but some prices feel like a steal, while others are jaw-droppingly steep.
| Pro tip: Most people agree that 2 hours isn’t enough to see everything in Inside Avenue Antiques. If you’re in a rush, you can just approach the owners of the mall, and they can direct you to certain stalls. |
4. The Hidden Gem Local Market
– Media credit: thehiddengemkensington
Address: 1145 Kensington Crescent NW
Contact details: +1 403 560 0964
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
True to its name, The Hidden Gem Local Market is one of Kensington’s lesser-known but most charming spots. This is where the best gift-givers in any family or friend group go to shop.
What makes this place special is that it’s a healthy mix of antiques and handmade crafts. Each stall is guaranteed to sell something that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
With almost 100 vendors, it’s impossible to leave empty-handed. There’s jewelry and clothing, seasonal ornaments, photography and artwork, skincare and food products, and lots of other goodies.
This is also a place I often recommend to out-of-towners. Instead of going to a mall for souvenirs, I tell them to head here. It’s like killing two birds with one stone — they get to support local artists while getting something distinctly Calgarian.
| Pro tip: The Hidden Gem Local Market is the best flea market for fur parents. It’s not just pet-friendly, there are also several stores selling pet-related products. |