OHIO - A treasure trove for those who love the thrill of the hunt, with a rich tradition of flea markets that draw crowds from all over the Midwest. While many fantastic markets are scattered across the Buckeye State, one destination stands out for its sheer, breathtaking scale and incredible variety: the Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market. Widely regarded as the largest flea market in Ohio and one of the biggest in the entire country, Hartville is more than just a market; it's a full-day shopping and dining adventure.
Ohio's Mega Market: A Guide to Hartville, the State's Largest Flea Market
Located in Hartville, just north of Canton, the Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market is a massive complex that offers a diverse, year-round experience.
- The Outdoor Flea Market: During the warmer months (typically April through September), the market explodes with an enormous outdoor flea market covering over 12 acres. Hundreds of vendors set up shop, selling everything from antiques and vintage collectibles to furniture, tools, plants, and handmade crafts. It's a classic, old-school treasure hunt on an epic scale.
- The Indoor Marketplace: The modern, 3-acre Indoor Marketplace is a two-story, heated and air-conditioned building that is open year-round. This space features hundreds of permanent indoor shops selling a mix of new retail items, specialty goods, and unique gifts.
More Than Just Shopping: A Culinary Destination:
The Hartville MarketPlace is also a major food destination, drawing visitors just for its culinary offerings.
- The Food Court: The indoor Marketplace features a large food court with a wide variety of options to refuel during your shopping trip.
- Sarah's Grille: For a more traditional sit-down meal, the on-site Sarah's Grille offers a full menu of classic American fare.
- Amish Foods: A significant draw is the presence of numerous vendors selling fresh, high-quality Amish meats, cheeses, and baked goods, giving visitors an authentic taste of the region's culinary heritage.
Why It's the Biggest:
The combination of its massive, seasonal outdoor flea market, its huge year-round indoor retail building, and its extensive dining options makes the Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market the largest and most comprehensive market of its kind in Ohio. It has been a beloved institution for generations, growing from a simple livestock auction in 1939 into the massive destination it is today.
Other Notable Large Flea Markets in Ohio:
- Rogers Community Auction & Flea Market (Rogers, OH): Another massive and historic market, Rogers is particularly renowned for its massive Friday flea market, where thousands of vendors and shoppers converge. It also features a variety of auctions, including livestock and produce.
- Traders World Market (Lebanon, OH): A large, primarily indoor market in Southwest Ohio, featuring hundreds of vendors selling a mix of new and used goods.
While Ohio has several large and excellent flea markets, the Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market holds the undisputed title as the state's largest. Its unique blend of a sprawling outdoor flea market for treasure hunting, a modern indoor shopping center, and a diverse food scene makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you're a serious collector, a bargain hunter, or just looking for a fun and delicious day trip, the Hartville MarketPlace offers an actual Ohio experience on a grand scale.
