A black and white logo for spring hollow hideaway.
A table topped with a variety of copper pots and kettles.

Discover Hidden Treasures and Local Charm at the Riverside Flea Market in Grafton

If you’re looking for a fun and gratifying way to spend a day during your stay in Grafton, consider visiting the Riverside Flea Market. This popular flea market is a local treasure that attracts visitors from all over the state and beyond. Bargain hunters and shoppers alike often find unique and rare items at the Riverside Flea Market.

A flea market with lots of tables and boxes on the ground.

about the flea market

The Riverside Flea Market is held once a month inside an old boat house, called the Loading Dock. You can find the flea market on the fourth Saturday and Sunday of the month, spring through fall. 


Aside from hosting the flea market, the Loading Dock is a bar and grill serving American food. If you get hungry while shopping at the flea market, try out the food from the Loading Dock.


So, grab your tote bags, recycled bags, purses, or whatever you like to use, and check out the Riverside Flea Market for old-new treasures.


Why you Should Shop at the Riverside Flea Market


You may wonder why anyone would want to spend a day wandering through a flea market. After all, it’s all junk for sale, right? Not at all! The Riverside Flea Market is much more than that.


It’s a great way to support local vendors and artisans. Many of the sellers at Riverside Flea Market are small business owners or independent artists who rely on events like this to make a living. Buying from them supports the local economy, and you get singular, one-of-a-kind items. 


So why should you visit the Riverside Flea Market in Grafton, Illinois? 


Because it’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, it’s a chance to support local businesses, score some amazing finds, and spend a day outside with friends and family.



What you Should Know Before Going to the Flea Market


With so many vendors and so much ground to cover, it's easy to get overwhelmed and tired. Before checking out the Riverside Flea Market, here are a few things you should know. 


  • Well, it’s a true flea market, which means you’ll find many unique and unusual items for sale. So, get there early. That’s what the die-hard shoppers do, and they buy up the good stuff in the first hour.
  • The key to a successful flea market shopping is preparation. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that’s appropriate for the weather. 
  • Take plenty of cash, as many vendors don’t accept credit cards. 
  • Take your measurements before you go.
  • Negotiate in a kind and fringe manner.
  • Have an idea of what items you hope to find.
  • And don’t forget to bring a tote bag or two to carry your purchases.


With a bit of preparation you’ll have a successful treasure hunt at the largest flea market in the region. 


Worth Spending Your Time and Money?


Shopping at a flea market is an exciting experience that goes beyond the mere opportunity to score a bargain. It’s a chance to explore a world of vintage charm, quirky treasures, one-of-a-kind finds, and discover hidden gems you won’t find anywhere else.


But the best part of shopping at a flea market is the sense of community and togetherness. Talking to vendors about their goods or connecting with other shoppers who are into vintage items – it's a really special feeling of togetherness and shared joy.


Shopping at a flea market is not about acquiring more things, it’s about experiencing a unique atmosphere that is fun and exciting. 


So, during your stay in Grafton, why not take a brief excursion to the Riverside Flea Market? You never know what treasures you’ll find. It’s a fun and affordable way to spend a day and create lasting memories you’ll cherish for years to come.


Escape the daily routine and immerse yourself in a world of vintage charm and quirky treasures. And who knows? You could end up with something great for your home or wardrobe.

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