Swap Shop Information

The Swap Shop in Fort Lauderdale, FL, is one of the world's largest indoor/outdoor entertainment and bargain shopping attractions. It covers 88 acres between I-95 and the Florida Turnpike and includes a little something fun for everyone:Farmers market with fresh produce2,000 vendors selling merchandise at bargain pricesGigantic flea market featuring antiques and gently used itemsAmusement rides and a giant video arcadeOne of the world's largest drive-in movie theaters, featuring 14 screensThe Swap Shop is open 365 days a year, including holidays, rain or shine. (See Hours of operation below.)Started by Betty and Preston Henn in 1963, the Swap Shop was originally called the Thunderbird Drive-In Movie Theater. Back then, the Thunderbird had just 1 movie screen. In 1966, the Henns began using the site for a weekend flea market. The main building, which opened in 1979, served as an open-air food court with vendor booths lining the perimeter. In 1988, the building was enclosed and air-conditioned. The following year, the Henns began offering regular concerts and brought in a circus to offer daily performances. They also added a carnival, video game arcade, and other attractions. Today, the Swap Shop is south Florida's second-largest tourist destination, attracting visitors from the United States, Canada, and other countriesaround the world. More than 12 million people visit each year. The Swap Shop is open 7 days a week, including all holidays.