Best Flea Markets in Los Angeles
Mixing contemporary with vintage is a signature of Los Angeles style (both in fashion and home décor), and there’s perhaps no better place to hunt for that eclectic look than local flea markets. Hipsters, designers, and even celebs flock to these five for a cornucopia of funky finds.
Downtown Flea
Launched in 2013, this downtown bazaar–cum–block party is a newcomer to the flea market scene. While there are some antiques and collectibles stalls, the emphasis is on handmade creations (à la Etsy) by local indie designers (think silkscreened T-shirts and organic jams). DJs and food trucks keep things festive. 4th Sundays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., $5.
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Melrose Trading Post
The punk-rock spirit of nearby Melrose Avenue spills over to this eclectic weekly market held at (and benefiting) Fairfax High School, so it’s not unusual to find tattooed denizens hunting for vintage boots and Burning Man goggles. But you’ll also discover old-time treasures from art to furniture to jewelry and a swinging jazz band. Sundays, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., $3.
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Pasadena City College Flea Market
Record collectors will have a field day at this Pasadena market known for its Record Swap, a section featuring more than 50 vintage record vendors hawking tunes from big bands to modern rock. The rest of the market focuses on antiques and collectibles of both the high-end and rummage-sale variety. Proceeds benefit PCC students. 1st Sundays, 7 a.m.–3 p.m., free.
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Rose Bowl Flea Market
Retro fashionistas, antique hunters, movie set dressers, and even celebs collide at this behemoth flea market at the Rose Bowl stadium, featuring 2,500 vendors. It helps to come with a specific mission, as overwhelming doesn’t even begin to describe the seven miles of vintage clothes, Hollywood memorabilia, kitchenware, jewelry, art, and home furnishings. 2nd Sundays, regular admission: 9 a.m.–3 p.m., $8; express admission: 8 a.m.–9 a.m., $10; early admission: 7 a.m.–8 a.m., $15; VIP admission: 5 a.m.–7 a.m.
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Santa Monica Airport Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market
Shopping at this distinctive market is like raiding a large, elegant estate sale. You’ll find everything to lavishly feather your nest, from shabby chic and Midcentury Modern furnishings to chandeliers and candelabra to exotic plants and tribal art. Dress the part with vintage couture and antique jewelry finds. 1st Sundays, 8 a.m.–3 p.m., $4. 4th Sundays, 8 a.m.–3 p.m., $5; 6 a.m.–8 a.m., $7.