Tanque Verde Swap Meet
Tucson's largest swap meet, offering a vibrant evening marketplace with diverse vendors and a popular food truck park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & full vendor setup
Tanque Verde Swap Meet
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere & full vendor setup

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tucson's largest swap meet, offering a vibrant evening marketplace with diverse vendors and a popular food truck park.
"Arrive after 6 PM for the best experience; it's a lively evening marketplace with great food and unique finds."
🎯 Arrive After 6 PM
Most vendors and shoppers don't arrive until after 6 PM. Arriving earlier can lead to a disappointing, empty experience.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors may accept cards, having cash on hand is recommended for easier transactions and potential bargaining.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Comida Food Truck Park
4100 S. Palo Verde Rd.
A vibrant hub of diverse food trucks offering everything from birria to bubble tea. A must-visit for foodies!
Unique Finds & Local Crafts
Various vendor stalls
Discover handmade jewelry, 3D printed items, vintage apparel, and unique Mexican imports. You never know what treasures you'll uncover!

Old-School Glamour Shots
Inside the swap meet
Step back in time with fun, on-the-spot photo sessions for a unique souvenir. Perfect for a quirky memory!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Vendor Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive After 6 PM
Most vendors and shoppers don't arrive until after 6 PM. Arriving earlier can lead to a disappointing, empty experience.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors may accept cards, having cash on hand is recommended for easier transactions and potential bargaining.
🌮 Explore Comida Park
Don't miss the diverse food truck options at Comida Park for delicious eats and a lively atmosphere.
🛍️ Bargain Hunter's Paradise
Be prepared to haggle for the best prices, especially on apparel and trinkets.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive After 6 PM
Most vendors and shoppers don't arrive until after 6 PM. Arriving earlier can lead to a disappointing, empty experience.
💰 Cash is King
While some vendors may accept cards, having cash on hand is recommended for easier transactions and potential bargaining.
🌮 Explore Comida Park
Don't miss the diverse food truck options at Comida Park for delicious eats and a lively atmosphere.
🛍️ Bargain Hunter's Paradise
Be prepared to haggle for the best prices, especially on apparel and trinkets.
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware that there might be parking fees, especially after a certain time. Check for current rates.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Tanque Verde Swap Meet offers a vibrant evening experience with diverse food options at Comida Park and a wide array of vendors. However, recent reviews suggest a decline in customer traffic and vendor numbers, with some finding it overpriced and less of a treasure trove than in the past. Timing your visit for the evening is crucial for the best atmosphere.
"Actual hours are 6pm to 10pm all days.
Its empty. Some Vendors are trying but there is a lack of customers. Fading paint and old aging aesthetic is in abundance. $2 to get in is reasonable just do not do it before 6pm or you will be let down. There are only a few garage sale type vendors so if you are looking for treasure this isnt it jack.
It sucks coming as a vendor from a different area setting up at the "open" times only to find out nothing actually opens until 6pm. Its to hot and there isnt much shade or misters or anything so nobody shows until the sun is going down. Ground is dirt in vendor areas, there is no fence or gates for security either.
It will need major updates before we return. It was empty all weekend that we were setup. Sunday was a ghost even after 6pm. Vendor beware of this place."
Mike Flores
"I was selling at the TVSM Saturday night and got charged for an extra space for small 4 foot table, a tub of children's clothing, and another tub of kids gift bags. I was packing up (9pm) because no one was buying and they still charged me for the space $28, she gave me a discount of $8, as if that made it right. Then she said she could charge me another space for parking my vehicle in back of the spot I was selling. She said you need to unload your vehicle.Go park it in the parking lot.And then when you're done you bring your vehicle back to load. Honestly that's how they treat the seller's who are responsible for bringing customers into there business. WITHOUT SELLERS THERE IS NO TANQUE VERDE SWAP MEET!
It cost $36 for Saturday 11am - 11pm
But buyers don't show up until after 5. Spend most of their money on food and drinks. So they are just looking and not buying and by 8-9 no more sales. So as a seller who "sold" not going back... you only have a couple of hours of sales compared to all the work preparing your items to sell, loading up into your vehicle, driving there, unloading your vehicle, loading your vehicle, driving home, unloading your vehicle and putting away your sale item. Is not worth it!
$156 in sales minus the cost of goods
$64 for two spaces
$30 for food
I have two words
YARD SALE"
Darla Kriehn
"A note for the owners $2 a person when you park it's too much. Especially when it's slow. There shouldn't be any charge for parking before 5:00 p.m. I watched customers leaving because none of the stores are even open. My suggestion is $5 Max for parking after 5:00 p.m.
Also rent for the sellers is putting them out of a business. They keep raising the rent"
Brenda Merrell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tanque Verde Swap Meet is located at 4100 S Palo Verde Rd, Tucson, AZ 85714. Driving is the most common method, with ample parking available, though fees may apply. Public transportation options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable.
Yes, parking is available at the Tanque Verde Swap Meet. However, be aware that parking fees may be charged, especially during peak hours or evenings. Some reviews suggest these fees can be high when the swap meet is slow.
The swap meet is located on South Palo Verde Road in Tucson. It's a large, well-known spot, so using GPS or following signs should make it easy to find.
Yes, you can arrange for a drop-off. If you're using a ride-sharing service, confirm the exact drop-off point with your driver.
To avoid potential traffic and ensure you catch the main buzz, aim to arrive after 6 PM on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday evenings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically a small admission fee per person, often around $2-$3. Some reviews mention a $2 entry fee, while others note a $36 charge for vendors on a Saturday. It's best to have cash ready for entry.
The Tanque Verde Swap Meet is generally open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. While some sources suggest opening times around 11 AM, many vendors and customers don't arrive until after 6 PM, with operations continuing into the late evening.
Vendors often begin setting up in the late afternoon, with most activity and customers arriving after 6 PM. Some reviews indicate that vendors may not be fully set up or present until 4:30 PM or later.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the entrance. There's no indication of advance ticket sales being available.
The swap meet hosts various events, including live music performances and special vendor appearances. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You can find a wide variety of items, including apparel, Mexican imports, handmade crafts, jewelry, vintage signs, toys, and unique trinkets. Food vendors are also a major draw.
Many visitors look for deals and bargains, especially on clothing and imported goods. Haggling is often expected and can lead to better prices.
Look out for vendors selling unique handmade items, vintage clothing, Mexican candies and imports, and artisanal crafts. The food trucks in Comida Park are also a highlight.
Yes, you can rent a space to sell your items. However, recent vendor reviews suggest that rental costs can be high and sales may not always justify the expense.
Vendors like Joyeria Sky for jewelry, Zoodoo Dolls for horror collectibles, and various food trucks in Comida Park, such as Birria Munchies and El Hefe Street Food, are often mentioned.
🍽️ 🌮 Food & Dining
The Comida Food Truck Park is a major attraction, offering a wide array of cuisines from various food trucks. You can find birria, Sonoran dogs, Ukrainian food, bubble tea, and more.
Some reviews indicate that food vendors can be overpriced, and the quality may not always meet expectations. However, many visitors find the food delicious and worth the experience.
Yes, you can find traditional Mexican snacks like churros, elotes, and various candies.
Yes, Comida Park, located within the swap meet, features a bar area where you can enjoy drinks.
Popular items include birria plates, quesadillas, Sonoran dogs, and the viral Dubai chocolate strawberries.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the swap meet offers a vibrant and eclectic backdrop for photos, with colorful stalls, unique items, and lively crowds. The Comida Park area also provides interesting visual elements.
One vendor offers old-school glamour shots, printing 4x6 photos on the spot for a small fee. This can be a fun and unique souvenir.
The evening hours, when the swap meet is fully operational and lit up, offer the most dynamic and atmospheric opportunities for photography.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their merchandise. Many are happy to oblige, especially if you're a customer.
Street photography, candid shots of shoppers and vendors, and detailed shots of unique products would all work well. The vibrant colors and diverse offerings provide ample subject matter.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to visit after sunset for the best experience, as many vendors and customers arrive later. Be prepared for crowds and keep a close eye on children. While there are many interesting sights, some areas might be more geared towards adults. Consider bringing a stroller for very young children, as there's a lot of ground to cover.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, focus on areas known for good deals and be discerning. The food trucks in Comida Park can be a bit pricey, so if you're on a tight budget, you might consider eating before or after your visit, or opting for more affordable snack options.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
Consider arriving after 6 PM to catch the full vibe. You can enjoy people-watching, discover quirky items, and sample a variety of foods and drinks. It's a more casual and adventurous alternative to a traditional dinner and a movie.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Tanque Verde Swap Meet
In recent years, the swap meet has seen changes, with some reviews noting a decline in vendor numbers and customer traffic, attributing it to new ownership and potentially higher vendor fees. Despite these challenges, the introduction of areas like Comida Park, a dedicated food truck hub, has brought a new wave of energy and attracted a different crowd. This diversification aims to keep the swap meet relevant and appealing to a broader audience, blending traditional flea market finds with modern culinary experiences.
Despite mixed reviews regarding its current state, the Tanque Verde Swap Meet continues to be a place where you can find everything from everyday necessities to quirky collectibles. The evening hours are crucial for experiencing its full potential, as the atmosphere truly comes alive after sunset with lights, music, and a bustling crowd.
Navigating the Vendor Landscape
However, it's important to note that the vendor landscape has been subject to change. Recent feedback suggests a potential decrease in the number of vendors and a shift in the types of goods available, with some describing it as more akin to a 'yard sale' than a traditional flea market. Despite this, dedicated shoppers can still uncover unique finds and support local artisans. Keep an eye out for old-school glamour shot photographers offering a fun, retro souvenir.
For those interested in selling, renting a space is an option, but be sure to research current vendor fees and expected customer traffic. Some vendors have expressed concerns about the cost versus sales potential, especially during slower periods.
A Culinary Adventure at Comida Park
The atmosphere at Comida Park is lively and social, often featuring music and lawn games, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy your meal. It's a place where you can sample a variety of dishes from different trucks, creating a unique dining experience. Popular trucks include The Birria Munchies Truck and El Hefe Street Food, known for their delicious offerings.
While some reviews mention that food prices can be on the higher side, the quality and variety often make it a worthwhile indulgence. It's recommended to explore the different trucks and try a few things to get the full Comida Park experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit