Why I Love Antiquing in Connecticut

While I like to spend most Sundays wondering around a new neighborhood or town, sometimes I prefer a day trip antiquing – it’s a great way to get inspired and find something new. Recently, one of my favorite antique destinations outside of NYC has been in Connecticut.

1. Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market

Taking place every Sunday from Summer to Fall, Elephant’s Trunk in Milford, CT is a full-blown flea market. Hundreds of vendors from around the area gather up as early as 4 am and set up their tables and tarps. The mix of objects is refreshing – you might find vintage dolls, newspapers, and refined 18th century bronze sculptures all displayed on the same table. The prices are reasonable and (of course) negotiable.

Plan to arrive around 9 am to get the best deals. Most vendors start breaking down after 1-2 pm. Entry fee is $3 per person

A stunning antique poster easel that would stand outside of a theater in the early 1900s

ELEPHANT’S TRUNK FLEA MARKET
490 Danbury Rd, New Milford, CT 06776 (Map)
Open Sundays 8 am to 2 pm
etflea.com

2. Monger’s Market

After heading 40 minutes South from Elephant’s Trunk to Bridgeport, CT you’ll discover Monger’s Market — a massive warehouse filled half with large scale industrial and architectural antiques and half with individual vendors or “mongers” each showcasing a curated selection of home goods, curious antique objects, clothing, books, and more.

In the industrial salvage area you can ask for help pulling larger or heavier items

MONGERS MARKET
1155 Railroad Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06605 (Map)
Open Sundays 10 am to 4 pm
mongers-market.com

3. Stratford Antique Center

10 minutes East from Bridgeport, CT is Stratford Antique Center, which I’d say epitomizes a classic American antique center – a large warehouse building lined straight aisles of small booths and glass cabinets, each stuffed with all sorts of things — from antique paintings and posters, to furniture pieces, records, and anything in between.