If you’re looking for a low-key, reliable way to entertain the kids (and yourself) on the weekend, how about a little treasure hunting at these local indie and flea markets? The weekly or monthly events offer plenty of vintage and handmade finds for you to discover. Double-check the website to confirm any changes or updates to mask and social distancing protocol as well as confirm the event is still happening. Read on for all the details. Happy treasure hunting!
The Rose Bowl Flea Market
The mothership of all flea markets, this must-go market takes place every 2nd Sun. For over 50 years this market has been delivering one-of-a-kind, vintage pieces to Angelenos and there is no slowing down (thankfully!). No matter what you are into, there's something for everyone whether it's plants, furniture, records, tchotchkes, collectibles, arts and crafts, clothes or food.
Hours: 9 a.m. for general public; 5 a.m.-9 a.m. for VIP
Rate: VIP is $20; regular admission is $10 per person (must be exact cash only, no change); kids under 12 are free
1001 Rose Bowl Dr.
Pasadena
Online: rgcshows.com/rose-bowl
Melrose Trading Post
"Sunday Fundays" are back but this time with wider aisles and vendors being more spread out across campus to observe social-distancing so you and your little ones can hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures. There are hand sanitizing stations available but no water fountains so plan to bring your own water or expect to purchase water on site. Parking is available on campus as well but is limited.
When: Every Sun., 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Cost: $5 cash at entrance, $5 + fees for contactless tickets
Where: 7850 Melrose Ave.
Fairfax
Online: melrosetradingpost.org
Los Feliz Flea
Organized by The Odd Market (the same group that hosts Odd Nights at the Autry), the Los Feliz Flea is a curated market with over 100 vendors selling antiques, collectibles, and more. Boasting plenty of shady areas and socially-distanced tables for kids to sit and eat at, this free-to-park and free-to-enter is by far the best value for treasure hunting.
When: Every Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: John Marhsall High School
3939 Tracy St.
Los Feliz
Online: theoddmarket.com/losfelizflea
Silver Lake Flea
While it may not have the same kid-friendly games and entertainment as Melrose and Los Feliz, this neighborhood market is chock-full of colorful and unique finds (both vintage and handmade), along with friendly vendors, including some pint-sized entrepreneurs. The vibe is cool and hipster-y, but in a fun-filled, welcoming way. Added bonus: It's free.
When: Every Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 1911 Sunset Blvd. (in the lot of Taix in Echo Park)
Echo Park
Online: silverlakeshop.com
Odd Nights at The Autry
This popular artisan market and evening festival may be on hiatus during the winter months, but it's back as of Apr. and will continue through Sept. 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Bring a blanket and spread out on the sprawling Autry Museum lawn where there are inflatables in one direction and craft and toy vendors in the other. But that's not all: there's also live music and all the food trucks.
When: Every 3rd Fri. of the month
Where: Autry Museum of the American West
4700 Western Heritage Wy
Griffith Park
Online: theoddmarket.com/autry
Santa Monica Airport Flea Market
This westside affair located on the grounds of the Santa Monica Airport ($5 to enter, kid and on-site parking are free) will entertain young and old with a variety of vintage and one-of-a-kind finds. Are the kids getting bored? Wander over to the runway observation deck where you can watch small planes take off and land regularly—a must for aviation fans.
When: 1st & 4th Sun. 7:00 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Santa Monica Airport Interim Open Space
Santa Monica
Online: santamonicaairportantiquemarket.com
Topanga Vintage Market
Bring the family ($4 per person to enter, kids under 12 are free) to Pierce College in Woodland Hills to discover what is touted as "one of LA's top sources for vintage." When in session, expect 200 vendors, great food trucks, and live music at the Topanga Vintage Market. Be sure to keep an eye out for local artisans providing free demos for kids to enjoy.
When: Every 4th Sun. of the month
Where: Pierce College
Victory Blvd. & Mason Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: topangavintagemarket.com
Smorgasburg LA
While technically not a flea market, Smorgasburg LA is a free-to-enter, open-air event featuring top food vendors serving up Korean dumplings, Peruvian tacos, "Salt n Peppa Lobsta" and more. Plus, once a month the market also hosts Hecho in LA, with a live DJ and the family-friendly I Love Micheladas beer garden.
When: Every Sun., 10a.m.-4p.m.
Where: ROW DTLA
777 Alameda St.
Downtown
Online: la.smorgasburg.com
—Andie Huber
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