Whether you’re on the hunt for cool vintage toys or an antique baby crib, LA has world-renown flea markets filled with incredible treasures just waiting to be discovered. And kiddos can learn a lot from exploring these treasure troves with you on weekends. They’ll learn about small businesses, they’ll learn the importance of being eco-conscious in their community and how to create groovy items by simply recycling and upcycling. They’ll even learn how to bargain and negotiate for a better price. So grab some sunscreen, a hat and your best shopping bag because we’ve rounded up the top 6 fleas you need to check out, stat!
photo: Melrose Trading Post via Facebook
Melrose Trading Post
Every Sun., neighborhood families flock to the Melrose Trading Post at Fairfax High School. Filled with a thoughtfully curated selection of handcrafted artisan goods, one-of-a-kind finds, vintage clothing, albums, and antique furniture, there’s definitely something for everyone. Kids will dig the Melrose Sunday Music Series featuring tons of live music by local talent on the Greenway Arts Main Stage. There are also food trucks and a snack stand or two to keep hangry tots happy. Also, this is one of the only markets where dogs are welcome – so be sure to bring Fido along! But the very best part is that general admission and vendor fees help provide jobs for Fairfax High students, fund field trips, sports equipment, campus beautification projects, teachers programs and more – truly giving back to LA’s educational community.
When: Every Sun, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: $3
Parking: A limited amount of free on-campus parking is first come, first serve.
Good to Know: Limited valet service is available for $5 at the Melrose and Gennessee entrance but most guests park in nearby neighborhoods and hoof it over to the market. Just be sure to pay attention to permit only and time restriction signs.
Melrose Trading Post
Fairfax High School
7850 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: melrosetradingpost.org
photo: Topanga Vintage Market via Facebook
Topanga Vintage Market
The 4th Sun. of every month, stop by the Topanga Vintage Market at Pierce College in Woodland Hills for some of the coolest vintage and most unusual antiques in town. Whether you’re browsing for antique globes, fine China, or an old-timey Mickey Mouse phone that reminds you of childhood – you’re bound to find it here. Arrive early and ensure your pick of the best inventory possible. There are also plenty of food trucks and live entertainment on hand to feed little ones’ bodies and spirits while you get your shop on.
When: The 4th Sun. of every month, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $3; 12 and under, veterans and active military are free.
Parking: Free parking is available – be sure to enter campus at the Mason Ave. entrance.
Good to Know: You can take the Metro here! The Orange Line stops right across the street from the market at the Pierce College stop.
Topanga Vintage Market
Pierce College
Victory Blvd. at Mason Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: topangavintagemarket.com
photo: Rose Bowl Flea Market via Facebook
Rose Bowl Flea Market
Keep an eye peeled because you’re bound to spot some of Hollywood’s biggest celebs browsing next to you at LA’s most unique flea market, the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena. For over 50 years, on the 2nd Sun. of every month, vendors have been selling their wares to LA’s enthusiastic treasure hunters. With an average of 2,500 vendors on site, you may not be able to reach them all in one sitting – but hey, that’s more to explore next time! There’s plenty of food (check out the market special of a hot dog and beverage for $4) and drinks available throughout the market, including wine and beer – holla!
When: 2nd Sun. of every month, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $9; 12 and under are free.
Parking: Plenty of free parking is available on site or you may pay for VIP preferred parking closer to the entrance.
Good to Know: Tickets are available at the gate or in advance online through the Rose Bowl Flea Market site. Express admission is also available from 8 a.m. – 9 a.m. for $12 per person, early admission is available from 7 a.m. – 8 a.m. for $15 per person or VIP admission is available from 5 a.m. – 7 a.m. for $20 per person. But just know not all vendors are even moved in and completely set up until 9 a.m.
Rose Bowl Flea Market
1001 Rose Bowl Dr.
Pasadena
Online: rgcshows.com/rosebowl.aspx
photo: Long Beach Antique Market via Facebook
Long Beach Antique Market
Often named one of the top flea markets in the country, the Long Beach Antique Flea Market has been the go-to destination for treasure hunters and bargain seekers in the know since 1982. With over 20 acres of home décor, clothing, jewelry and vintage collectibles, it’s more than worth your time to drive to the LBC the 3rd Sun. of every month. Chances are you’ll spot everything from a vintage Louis Vuitton baby bag and gorgeous turquoise bracelets to a stunning mid-century dresser and indigo shibori throw that would look fab in your tyke’s nursery. You have to hit the market early to get the really great finds, but on many items, you’ll really snag a bargain here. There are food and beer options as well so shoppers (big and small) keep smiling.
When: 3rd Sun. of every month, 6:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cost: $6; 12 and under are free.
Parking: Free parking is available around the market area.
Good to Know: $12 early admission with entrance to market from 5:30 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.
Long Beach Antique Market
Long Beach Veterans Stadium
4901 E. Conant St.
Long Beach
Online: longbeachantiquemarket.com
photo: Pasadena City College Flea Market via Facebook
Pasadena City College Flea Market
The Pasadena City College Flea Market held on the 1st Sun. of the month is known for its wonderful selection of antiques and collectibles and boasts one of the best record marketplaces in all of Southern Cal. So if you’re looking to introduce your littles to the vinyl of your younger years, this may just be the spot to find it. Vendors are super friendly and accommodating, prices are fair and pooches are welcome – what more could you ask for!?
When: 1st Sun. of the month, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free.
Parking: $2 parking is available at the structure on the corner of Hill and Del Mar.
Pasadena City College Flea Market
1570 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena
Online: pasadena.edu/community/flea-market
photo: Artists & Fleas via Yelp
Artists & Fleas
Brooklyn-born flea market empire, Artists & Fleas, finally made its way out west and serves up some of the chicest artisan and craft fare around every 2nd and 4th Sat. in Venice. Smaller in size and expertly curated, this market is much easier to navigate than some of the other behemoths out there. From vintage clothing and cool jewelry to beauty products and healing crystals (it is Venice after all), Artists & Fleas is a relaxing weekend outing for LA families. A variety of small batch confectioners and food trucks are on site as well providing much-needed nourishment for haggling and hunting. Pups are welcome too!
When: 2nd and 4th Sat. every month, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: Free.
Parking: Street parking, nearby lots and free bike parking
Artists & Fleas
Westminster Avenue Elementary School
1010 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice
Online: artistsandfleas.com/la-venice
Final Treasure Hunting Tip: Don’t forget to bring lots of cash when you hit the flea market circuit. Though some vendors are happy to take credit cards, some may not and cash is king when it comes to easier bargaining.
What are some of your fave flea markets around town? Give us the scoop and let us know if we missed yours in the comments below!
—Meghan Rose & Jennifer O’Brien
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