You’ve probably heard someone call The Windmill Farm and Craft Market a "flea market." Honestly? That’s kinda insulting. If you pull into that gravel lot in Penn Yan, New York, expecting a sea of rusty hubcaps and old Tupperware, you’re in for a massive shock. It’s more like a sprawling, 44-acre village that only exists on Saturdays.
It’s huge. It’s loud. It smells like cinnamon rolls and sawdust. And if you don't have a plan, it’s remarkably easy to spend four hours there and realize you haven't even seen the third building yet.
Why The Windmill Farm and Craft Market isn't just another roadside stop
Located right on State Route 14A, tucked between Keuka and Seneca Lakes, this place has been a Finger Lakes staple since 1987. It actually started with just 90 vendors. Back then, it was a way for local Mennonite and "English" (non-Mennonite) folks to sell their stuff without having to travel to Pennsylvania. Now? There are over 175 indoor and outdoor shops.
The "windmill" isn't just a cute name, either. There’s a massive functional windmill on the property, but the real heart of the place is the 50-acre campus. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see a Tesla parked next to a horse and buggy.
The layout is a bit of a maze
You basically have three main buildings plus "the street" and an open-air area.
- The Gunderman Building: Named after one of the founders, William Gunderman. This is where you find a lot of the heavy hitters—custom furniture and high-end crafts.
- The Produce Area: This is where the local Mennonite farmers bring the good stuff. Depending on the month, you’re looking at mountains of corn, berries, or those heavy orange pumpkins.
- The Street of Shops: Imagine a tiny town of sheds, each one hiding something different. One might be full of leather belts, the next might have 500 types of hot sauce.
What to actually eat (and what to skip)
Food is a religion here. You’ll see people walking around with "dilly dogs"—that’s a hot dog stuffed inside a pickle, battered, and deep-fried. It sounds like a dare, but people swear by them.
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If you want the real experience, look for the Amish and Mennonite baked goods. Most of this stuff is made in wood-fired ovens or kitchens that don't even have electricity. The sticky buns are legendary. Seriously, get them early because they disappear by noon.
- The Polish Princess: Go here for the pierogies and stuffed cabbage. It’s legit.
- Panda Rolls: These are weirdly popular—spicy Asian chicken wrapped in a scallion pancake. It’s a bit of a local cult favorite.
- Not The Same Ole Grind: Sharon Hobbie runs this coffee spot. She sources beans from local roasters like Keuka Lake Coffee Roasters and Seneca Sunrise. It’s the best caffeine fix on the property.
I’d honestly suggest skipping the generic "fair food" like standard burgers or fries. You can get those anywhere. Save your stomach space for the fresh-squeezed lemonade or the kettle corn that’s being stirred in giant copper pots right in front of you.
The furniture situation is serious
A lot of people come to The Windmill Farm and Craft Market specifically for the woodcraft. We aren't talking about IKEA particle board here. We’re talking about solid oak, cherry, and maple furniture built by craftsmen who don't use power tools.
If you’re looking for a custom dining table or a solid Adirondack chair that won't blow away in a light breeze, this is the spot. Most of the vendors can even arrange delivery, which is great because you probably aren't fitting a six-person farmhouse table in your SUV.
Some cold, hard truths for your visit
It’s open every Saturday from April through December. That’s it. Just Saturdays. (Well, they do open on some holidays like Memorial Day and Black Friday, but usually, it's a one-day-a-week deal.)
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1. The Crowd is Real. On a nice summer Saturday, 10,000 people show up. It gets packed. If you hate crowds, get there at 8:00 AM sharp. By 11:00 AM, the walkways feel like a busy subway station.
2. Cash is Still King. While many vendors have started using those little square card readers, a lot of the Mennonite sellers prefer cash. There is an ATM on-site, but the line is usually long and the fees are annoying. Bring a 20s and 10s.
3. It’s Pet Friendly. You’ll see plenty of dogs. Just make sure they’re on a leash and okay with loud noises and lots of ankles.
4. Wear Real Shoes. You are going to be walking on gravel, grass, and concrete for hours. This is not the place for flip-flops or heels.
Beyond the shopping: The Car Shows and Fall Festivals
The market isn't just about buying stuff. They do a lot of events. The Spring and Fall Car Shows are actually pretty huge—they get everything from classic 1950s Chevys to fully restored tractors.
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In October, the Fall Festival takes over. They do pumpkin painting, face painting, and sometimes these "dancing witches" that perform for the crowd. It sounds cheesy, but when the Finger Lakes leaves are changing and the air is crisp, it’s actually pretty great.
Is it worth the drive?
If you’re coming from Rochester or Syracuse, it’s about an hour and fifteen minutes. If you’re already staying in Watkins Glen or Penn Yan, it’s a no-brainer.
The mistake most people make is trying to "squeeze it in" between winery visits. Don't do that. Give it at least three hours. You need time to browse the antiques, taste the wines (there are six local wineries with tasting booths inside), and just sit on a bench and people-watch.
Actionable steps for your first trip
- Check the calendar: Make sure they’re open. They usually close for the season right around mid-December and don't reopen until the end of April.
- Pack a cooler: You’re going to buy cheese, meat, and produce. If it’s a hot July day, that stuff will be ruined in your trunk within twenty minutes. Leave a cooler with ice in your car.
- Start in the back: Most people enter and start at the first building. If you arrive early, head to the furthest building first and work your way back to the exit. You’ll be moving against the grain of the crowd, which makes life much easier.
- Bring a wagon: If you plan on buying heavy stuff like pumpkins, plants, or multiple bags of flour, bring a folding utility wagon. Your back will thank you.
Basically, The Windmill Farm and Craft Market is a piece of living history that happens to sell really good jam. It’s a weird, wonderful mix of old-world craftsmanship and modern Finger Lakes tourism. Just don't call it a flea market when you get there.