Renninger's Rates in Top 10 Flea Markets

When Family Money magazine went looking for the best flea markets in America, they found what people in Central Florida have known all along – Renninger's is the best place to go, no matter what you're in the market for.

Regardless of what you're looking for, it is sure to be available. Locals and day-trippers shop every weekend for fresh produce, seafood, crafts, furniture, household items, jewelry, and much more while keeping an eye out for that rare antique or collectible.

The largest of its kind in the Southeast, Renninger's gives you the advantage of two separate markets – one for antiques and collectibles, the other a farmer's and flea market – offering 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor facilities. It is a pleasant stroll around the outdoor area at the Antique Center, which is a blend of old world and country cottage shops arranged into a charming village. The spacious indoor buildings at both facilities are air conditioned for your comfort.

In the July/August 2000 issue of Family Money, Lesley Ackerman, who wrote "The 10 Best Flea Markets in America," says the domination of the retail market by chain stores with their generic merchandise has contributed to the rise in popularity of flea markets.

"Not only can you uncover one-of-a-kind items, you can also find high-quality used or antique items for a lot less money than you'd pay for something new," Ackerman wrote.

Renninger's Twin Markets in Mount Dora was among the top ten. A dozen experts contributed to the magazine's decision, which was based on the size or reputation of the market and the consistent availability of high-quality collectibles and antiques. Judges also named both the Kutztown and Adamstown Renninger's in Pennsylvania, as well as two markets in California, two in New York, and one each in Illinois, Ohio, Massachusetts, and Texas.

Renninger's Twin Markets are located in picturesque Mount Dora, about 20 miles northwest of Orlando on U.S. Highway 441. The markets are busy, even in the historically slow summer months. In the main buildings, the pole barns, and in rows outdoors, some 400 vendors set up shop in the side-by-side facilities. Renninger's is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday of the year.