New York’s secret markets
Forget Fifth Avenue and its famous designers, bid farewell to the big brands, and say hello to the trendiest and most original side of the Big Apple. Here’s a selection of the most authentic and unusual markets in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens in a can’t-miss tour of the city that never sleeps.
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1 Hell’s Kitchen: ode to the past
In the heart of Manhattan and just ten minutes west of Times Square, this flea market is known for its wide selection of furniture and accessories. Chairs, paintings, tables, desks, rocking chairs, necklaces, earrings, belts, wigs and shoes complete the list of one of the city’s best traditional markets. Be warned – it’s best to arrive early, as it’s one of the city’s most popular spots – a legend since 1976.
(W 39th Street and 9th Avenue – Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm – Subway: 42nd Street Port Authority)
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2 Grand Bazaar: the caring touch
This market has featured more than 100 stands since it opened in 1985, and it’s perfect for browsing in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper West Side. The sellers, who have both indoor and outdoor stands, supply everything from clothing to local crafts. It’s one of the city’s largest markets and it donates all its profits to four public schools in the district.
(100 W 77th Street – Sunday from 10am to 5.45pm – Subway: 79th Street)
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3 Dumbo: the hipsters’ favourite
At the foot of the iconic Manhattan Bridge, this market has more than 80 stalls selling practically everything. And ‘everything’ means just that – jeans from the 1970s, tie-dye jumpers, colourful dresses from the 1950s to the 1990s, antiques from the world over and unique design items. Best of all, though, is the lovely panoramic view of Manhattan, with its legendary skyline as a backdrop.
(80 Pearl Street – Sundays from 10am to 6pm – Subway: York Street)
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4 Long Island City: on the banks of the river
Leave Manhattan behind and cross the East River to Queens, the city’s most multicultural borough. Long Island City market in Queens West not only attracts people seeking clothing, antiques and accessories, it’s also a food court and an outdoor craft beer pub, which is perfect for a warm afternoon. If you’re lucky, there’ll be a DJ playing music or even a live recital.
(5-25 46th Avenue, Long Island City – Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 6pm – Subway: Court Sq-23rd Street)