Cheap things to do: Best flea markets

P.S. 41 and I.S. 44
Greenflea Hipsters, blue hairs and Upper West Siders stop by these lots to purchase fresh produce, stock up on baked goods, or leaf through old encyclopedias and comic books hidden among the flea-tastic finds. Be on the lookout for booths full of tie-dye creations, buttons and baubles from granny’s attic, great vintage dresses and handmade quilts. I.S. 44, Columbus Ave between 76th and 77th Sts (greenfleamarkets.com). Sun 10am–5:30pm.

The Antiques Garage
This is the flea-market mother ship, where every weekend cantankerous sellers push their wares (late-’80s karate magazines, Ross Perot campaign pins, vintage bowling shoes, dreidels, pillbox hats and horn-rimmed glasses) in a two-story parking garage. Michael Stolbach’s booth, located on the ground floor, is especially worth seeking out: He trades in outsider art and old microgenre photos (e.g., “African-American: Civil War,” “Gay Interest: Affectionate Men”). 112 W 25th St between Sixth and Seventh Aves (212-243-5343). Sat, Sun 9am–5pm.

Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market
In one of the most culturally diverse areas of New York, this open-air market differs from your traditional flea by shilling magnificent African crafts, textiles, hand-carved arts, ornate masks and clothing for men, women and children. 52 W 116th St at Malcolm X Blvd (Lenox Ave) (212-987-8131). Daily 10am–8pm.

Aqueduct Flea Market
This supersized flea is like a Best Buy, Duane Reade, Macy’s and EMS all rolled into one. Five hundred vendors make this the East Coast’s largest outdoor flea market; prepare to rummage through mounds of clothing, boxes of shoes, tables heaped with beat-up electronic equipment, houseplants, herbal medicines and more. Savvy shoppers bring a rolling cart to carry home all the booty. Rockaway Blvd at 110th St, Ozone Park, Queens (718-738-9571). Tue, Sat, Sun 7:30am–4pm. Apr 5–Dec 2009

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Cheap things to do in New York City
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