Greenflea Markets

by Meredith Deliso (subscribe)

Published December 4th 2009

Looking for a gift for a friend who's impossible to shop for? Or just out there looking to treat yourself?

Flea markets are great places to find those one-of-a-kind gifts, with dozens of jewelry and clothing designers right at your fingertips.

One of the biggest and longest running in the city can be found on the Upper West Side. Since 1985, GreenFlea has provided New Yorkers with a Sunday shopping destination, while, as a non-profit organization connected with two local schools, has helped provide millions in additional funding for their educational programs.

The indoor and outdoor markets provide items in seemingly every category, including jewelry, used books, clothing, and furniture, as well as produce, baked goods and flowers in the outdoor farmer's market.

The flea follows the seasons, so right now expect coats, hats (including vintage accessories from Maria Fiore's Opera Lovers' Cafe Hat Shop), scarves and sweaters. Or, you can make your own knit-wear with help from the yarn suppliers.

While the pleasure of going to a flea market is discovering the designers and unique pieces, you can also get a peek at who's where in the indoor and outdoor markets with their handy guides.

Thanks to its location, you can also easily make a day out of visiting the GreenFlea. With the American Museum of Natural History right across the street, you can enjoy one of the city's best treasures and travel further back in time than any of your vintage finds.

Hungry? Many restaurants line Columbus and Amsterdam avenues, though one neighborhood favorite has to be Shake Shack, a burger joint that won't break the bank and will leave you satisfied, and ready to get back to shopping.

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