Most flea and antique markets charge a few bucks for admission; pony up the big bucks and some will let you in early, before the masses arrive. Many markets shut down in the winter, so if you get the bug to browse in December, call or check the market’s Web site first to make sure it’s open.
“Alsip is mostly newer stuff, and it’s mostly an indoor market. Buyingwise, it’s a crapshoot. I’ve gone home with nothing from there; I’ve gone home with good things from there.” aWed 7 AM-2 PM, Sat-Sun 7 AM-4 PM, 4350 W. 129th, Alsip, 708-344-7300, $1.
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217-202-2847 or thirdsundaymarket.com, $5 for 13 and over (early admission $25, 6:30 AM).
Elkhorn Antique Flea Market
“Every now and then some really good stuff pops out of there. It’s a small enough market to cover pretty quickly. But you need to get there early because the buyers are really, really aggressive.” aApril-November, Sun 7 AM-1 PM, 19100 Oak Park, Tinley Park, 708-532-8238, i80fleamarket.com, $1.
New Maxwell Street Market