This gigantic flea market near Tampa is the place to be when it's cold & dreary outside

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Do you believe that one man's trash is another man's treasure? If yes, then you'll be pleased to know of a place where this saying really holds true: Oldsmar Flea Market. It's the largest of its kind in the south, so don't let this "flea market" fool you, there's so much more here than just another man's trash. 

With the way the weather has been over the last couple of days in Tampa, you're probably looking for some retail therapy to keep you occupied until the sun comes back. If you're finally tired of shopping at your usual few spots, plan to stop at this market located in the northern outskirts of Tampa. (Pro tip #1: It's best to visit when the weather is cooler since the marketplace can become unbearably hot on warm days.)

From antiques to plant nurseries, to fruit and vegetable stands, and even a aviary pet store, whether you're just browsing or coming with specific items in mind, there's a decent chance you can find what you're looking for here --and usually as a deal.

Among the independent vendors selling new items like hand-crafted art, foods, and new items, the market features $1 stores, knock-off stores, discount stores, and of course, thrift shops! So no matter what your budget is, you can find something here worth shopping for. (Pro tip #2: ATMs are onsite so it's totally fine if you don't bring cash!)

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But how "massive" is this place really? 

"The market is a sprawling oasis of history and nostalgia spreading over 28 acres," their official website states. 

From my own experience coming here a dozen plus times, not once have I ever been able to complete a full sweep from front to the back in one visit. I usually get tired about halfway through and have to come back at a later date to visit the rest of the vendors. 

If you're planning on hitting every store, you should make this an entire day trip --and get there early because it gets crowded! 

Most of the 200+ vendors are open during weekends, but some also operate during the week too. Parking is always free, even during the busy weekend hours.

My personal favorite store in the entire place is Everything Birds, located in the very last building on the left wing, and I highly recommend stopping in if you like birds! They often have friendly parrots looking for new homes that you can interact with (or take home if you have the money and space!)

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The Oldsmar Flea Market is located at â€‹180 Racetrack Rd., Oldsmar, Florida. Typical market hours are Fri: 10a.m. - 3 p.m., Sat-Sun: 9a.m. - 4p.m.

Oh, and I highly recommend taking one of these with you so you can spare your arms the burden of carrying heavy bags all day! 

You can find out more information about the market here. 

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