Mongers Market Bridgeport: What to know, why to go and more

First of all, let me say: If you’ve never been to Mongers Market and you live within a reasonable distance to Bridgeport, CT… go! If you love vintage art, antique furniture, thrifting, or old stuff in general, this place is like a little slice of heaven.

I first went to this Connecticut flea market in 2018, and I’ve been about a dozen times since then. I try to go every few months to see what’s new, but I’d get there more often if I had time.

If you’re planning a trip to Mongers Market, here’s a rundown of everything you need to know, plus a few of my favorite finds that I’ve come home with.

What is Mongers Market?

Mongers is technically two things: an indoor flea market, and an architectural salvage warehouse.

What most people think about when they think about Mongers Market is the flea market. The flea market, which is housed inside a 75,000 square foot warehouse building in Bridgeport, CT, brings together dozens of vendors and thousands of people each Sunday for a festival of all things old.

Each vendor has a stall, which is rented on a long-term basis, where they set up their wares. The items you’ll find range from vintage art, to antique furniture, to handmade decor and lighting, and various collectibles. Prices range from budget friendly (I bought the mirror in my downstairs bathroom there for about $15) to high-end (I once asked about a taxidermy bear that I wanted for our Vermont cabin, which was somewhere around $8,000). It really just depends what stall you’re in and what you’re looking for.

Most of the items at Mongers Market are home-related, and most of it is smaller decor, lighting, and art. But, you will find some booths with larger furniture pieces, as well as a handful of vintage clothing booths, and some dedicated to specific collectible items.

In addition to the flea market, Mongers is also standalone architectural salvage warehouse filled with things like old factory lights, more steamer trunks than you’ve seen in one place, old millwork and doors, and more. It’s really a unique place to see.

What’s so great about it?

In my opinion, Mongers Market is one of the best flea markets in Connecticut (and in the metro New York area), for a few reasons.

First, it’s all indoors, so it’s open year-round. This is excellent news if you, like me, spend your winters waiting for outdoor flea markets like The Elephant Trunk or Brimfield Flea Market to open again. Mongers is a great way to spend a Sunday in the middle of the winter. Note that it’s not climate controlled, so it can get a little chilly in the winter and a little hot in the summer. Dress accordingly!

Second, there’s something for everyone there. A few years ago the flea market almost doubled its capacity to nearly 80 vendors, and there’s usually a vendor turnover or two, as well, so there are plenty of options. The vendors also represent all different styles. Some specialize in Americana, others in a shabby chic look, or midcentury items.

My husband, who is a reluctant flea market attendee, has even found some things that have gotten him excited. They’re usually golf-related, so like I said, there’s something for everyone. I never leave empty handed.

Another thing I like about the market is that, if you find something that’s bigger than you’d intended to purchase that day, or that won’t fit in your car, you can arrange to pick it up at a later time, or have it delivered.

Is it worth visiting?

If you haven’t guessed yet, I’m a big fan of Mongers, and I think it’s definitely worth visiting if you’re the kind of person who loves vintage decor, antique furniture or collectibles.

Even if you don’t it’s a fun way to spend a Sunday if you have nothing to do. I tend to go every few months, or a often as I can get there, since the selection changes so often.

Are dogs allowed at Mongers Market?

For a long time, Mongers Market was dog friendly, but that changed in April 2023. Dogs are no longer allowed at Mongers Market.

When is Mongers Market?

The Mongers Market flea market is every Sunday from 10am-4pm, unless the Sunday falls on a major holiday, like Easter.

The architectural salvage warehouse is open by appointment.

Do you have to pay for Mongers Market?

Mongers Market used to be free to get in, but now there is a small entry fee.

It costs $3 per adult, and kids 12 and under are free. The market is also free after 3PM.

The entry fee is cash only, and there is an ATM on site in case you show up with only a card.

Is Mongers Market cash only?

Since each vendor operates as their own business, the type of payment accepted varies from stall to stall. Most sellers accept Venmo or credit card in addition to cash, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. Again, there is also an ATM by the front entrance if you need it.

How to get to Mongers Market and parking

The easiest way to get to Mongers Market is by car. It’s located right off of I-95, so it’s pretty convenient to get to. There is free parking on site. You can usually find a parking spot in the lot, but there is also overflow parking along the street if you can’t snag one (I’ve never had a problem parking in the lot, though!)

If you are coming from New York City, you can also take the Metro North train, and then grab an Uber to Mongers. It’s about a 7-minute drive (just under two miles) from the Bridgeport Metro North stop.