Escape the fast pace of Dallas and take a quick day trip to Canton. This rural town is situated southeast of Dallas on I-20, and it only takes about an hour to get there. It's known for the monthly First Monday Trade Days market, which occurs from Thursday until Sunday before the first Monday of each month.
First Monday Trade Days
This indoor/outdoor market is the largest outdoor flea market in the world. It features thousands of vendors who sell a wide variety of items such as arts and crafts, rare antiques, home decor, furniture, jewelry, clothing, kids' toys, and much more. Bring comfortable walking shoes, because this flea market covers more than 100 acres. Parking for the market averages around $5 per car.
First Monday Trade Days — Photo courtesy of Kerrie Main
Other Places to Shop
If you decide to go to Canton on an off-market day, you'll still find a wide variety of shopping venues that feature country collectibles and souvenirs. Southwest Passages sells Mexican pottery and rustic furniture, and there is a tiny quilt store situated just outside the entrance of the First Monday Trade Days market. During the spring, summer, and autumn seasons, most of the independent fruit and vegetable stands are open as well.
Other Things To Do
If you're all shopped out, visit some popular area spots, such as YesterLand Farm, a great day trip for visitors with children. It features carnival rides, an old-fashioned corn maze, hayrides and a huge pumpkin patch. It also acts as a Christmas tree farm every November and December.
In the nearby town of Edom, Blueberry Hill Farms allows visitors to pick their own bushel of blueberries during the summer months. Canton also features a zip line park and a local winery, Texas Roads Winery.
YesterLand Farms — Photo courtesy of YesterLand Farms
Where to Eat
Visitors will find numerous eateries in this small town. Most serve Texas favorites, including hamburgers and Tex-Mex cuisine.
For the best hamburger in town, visit the Dairy Palace off the main street, N. Trade Days Blvd. This burger joint features country breakfasts, world famous hamburgers, and handmade malts and shakes created with Texas-made Blue Bell ice cream. In fact, the Dairy Palace features more than 32 flavors of this favorite ice cream brand.
If you're more in the mood for down-home Tex-Mex, visit Ochoa's Cafe on E. Dallas St. If you want a delicious, fast snack, hit up the Street Taco stand for $1 authentic Mexican tacos on N. Trade Days near the market.
Ochoa's Cafe — Photo courtesy of Kerrie Main
