Spence’s Bazaar

Description

Spence’s Bazaar is a real gem tucked away in Dover, Delaware. It’s not your average flea market – this place has character in spades! I’ve been coming here for years, and let me tell you, it never disappoints. The bazaar is a mishmash of vendors selling everything from vintage treasures to fresh produce. And don’t even get me started on the Amish baked goods – they’re to die for!

The atmosphere here is electric, especially on auction days. You’ll hear the rapid-fire chant of auctioneers as they sell off antiques and collectibles to eager bidders. It’s like stepping back in time, with a dash of modern flair thrown in for good measure.

One of my favorite spots is Room 9, where you can find an array of scented goodies. The candles and incense there are top-notch, perfect for creating a cozy ambiance at home. And if you’re into designer-type body oils, you’re in for a treat. On nice days, these vendors set up shop outside, adding to the lively outdoor market vibe.

Now, I’ll be honest – Spence’s Bazaar isn’t some polished, touristy attraction. It’s a bit rough around the edges, but that’s part of its charm. You might have to dig a little to find those hidden treasures, but isn’t that half the fun?

Key Features

• Diverse array of vendors selling antiques, collectibles, and fresh produce
• Regular auctions featuring unique items and collectibles
• Delicious Amish baked goods (seriously, don’t miss out on these!)
• Specialty shops like Room 9 offering candles, incense, and body oils
• Mix of indoor and outdoor shopping areas
• Lively, bustling atmosphere with a touch of nostalgia
• Great place for bargain hunting and finding one-of-a-kind items
• Family-friendly environment with something for all ages
• Local favorite that’s been around for generations
• Opportunity to support small businesses and local artisans

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let’s talk timing. Spence’s Bazaar is open year-round, but in my experience, there are definitely some sweet spots for visiting.

First off, the bazaar is bustling on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. These are the main market days, and that’s when you’ll find the place in full swing. If you’re after the full Spence’s experience, aim for one of these days.

Now, if you’re into auctions (and who isn’t?), you’ll want to hit up the bazaar on Wednesdays. That’s when the antique and general merchandise auctions happen. Trust me, it’s a hoot watching the auctioneers do their thing, even if you’re not planning to bid.

As for seasons, spring and fall are my personal favorites. The weather’s just right for meandering through the outdoor stalls without breaking a sweat or freezing your toes off. Plus, you get to see the seasonal produce and goods on offer.

But here’s a little insider tip: if you’re after the best deals, try visiting in the off-season. Winter can be a bit chilly, but you might snag some great bargains as vendors try to clear out inventory.

And if you’re a early bird, get there right when they open. You’ll have first dibs on the freshest produce and the best antiques before the crowds roll in.

How to Get There

Getting to Spence’s Bazaar is pretty straightforward, but I’ll admit, I got a bit turned around the first time I visited. It’s located in Dover, Delaware, which is easy enough to find on a map.

If you’re driving from out of town, your best bet is to use a GPS or smartphone navigation app. Just punch in “Spence’s Bazaar, Dover, Delaware” and you should be good to go. It’s not too far off the main roads, but it’s tucked away enough that you might miss it if you’re not paying attention.

For those coming from within Dover, it’s on the west side of town. You’ll want to head towards the fairgrounds area. It’s in that general vicinity, but don’t confuse it with the actual fairgrounds – that’s a different place entirely!

Public transportation options are a bit limited, I’m afraid. Dover does have a bus system, but I’d recommend checking the routes and schedules in advance if you’re planning to use it. Honestly, driving or getting a ride is probably your best bet.

Oh, and here’s a heads up – parking can get a bit hectic on busy days. There’s a decent-sized lot, but it fills up fast. If you can, try to arrive early to snag a good spot. And don’t be surprised if you end up parking on the grass or along the road during peak times. Just be mindful of any no-parking signs!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, folks, gather ’round for some pearls of wisdom from a Spence’s Bazaar veteran. First things first: bring cash! While some vendors might accept cards, cash is king here. There’s an ATM on-site, but save yourself the fees and come prepared.

Wear comfy shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking. And dress in layers. The indoor areas can get warm, but you’ll want a jacket for browsing the outdoor stalls, especially in cooler months.

Don’t be afraid to haggle, especially at the flea market sections. It’s part of the fun! But remember, these are small business owners, so be respectful.

If you’re after fresh produce or baked goods, come early. The good stuff goes fast! And speaking of food, come hungry. The Amish pretzels are out of this world, and there’s usually a good selection of other snacks and treats.

Bring a reusable shopping bag or two. It’s better for the environment, and you’ll be glad to have them when your arms are full of treasures.

Take your time exploring. Some of the best finds are hidden away in corners or under piles of stuff. It’s all part of the treasure hunt!

If you’re into antiques, bring a magnifying glass and a small flashlight. They’ll come in handy for examining items closely.

Don’t be shy about striking up conversations with the vendors. They often have fascinating stories about their wares and can give you great tips on finding what you’re looking for.

And finally, keep an open mind. Half the fun of Spence’s Bazaar is discovering things you never knew you wanted. Who knows? You might stumble upon your new favorite collectible or the perfect gift for that hard-to-shop-for relative.

Happy bazaar-ing, folks! And remember, if you see a one-eyed garden gnome holding a rubber chicken, tell ’em I sent you. (Just kidding, but wouldn’t that be a find?)

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