A Guide to Tennessee's Best Flea Markets

"Bargain Hunting" is the unofficial Tennessee State sport. Finding a great deal is one of life's truly satisfying moments and there is no better chance for it than at one of the states many flea markets. There is no feeling more delightful than finding your passion tucked between antiques and old boots.

Fall is the perfect time for browsing shelves full of hidden value and here are a few places to try out your treasure hunting luck:

If your looking for antiques Frank's Friendly Flea Market in Jackson is a marvelous find. Located at 800 South Highland it operates on the first weekend of every month and there is no admission or parking fees.There are over 200 vendors selling every variety of antique conceivable and many booths full of new items. There is a full restaurant offering a variety of food from a simple burger to a rib platter. There are vendors inside and out. Booths may be rented for $40 to $65 and there are camping facilities available.Friendly Frank's Flea Market, 901-755-6561.

The Tennessee Expo flea market is one of the biggest in the state.It operates the second weekend of each month at 1412 Hazelwood Drive in Smyrna. It has 150 vendors both indoors and out. There are concessions available through out the work day Friday 3-7; Saturday 9-6; Sunday 10-4.They boast 3 to 5 thousand customers a month and even provide camping facilities. Rent for vendors is $75.00 per booth. Tennessee Expo Flea Market, 615-223-9800 .

Chattanooga is home to one of Tennessee's first and largest indoor flea markets with 2 acres of free parking and free admission. It is the Monster Flea Market at 5615 Lee Hwy. There are more than 200 booths selling new, used, antiques and collectibles. Surely something for each of the 3000 to 5000 customers they claim each month. There is a large concession stand with your basic menu of nachos, burgers and hotdogs. The pizzas are homemade however. Booth rent starts at $100 a month. Monster Flea Mart, 423-296-3532.