Los Angeles - September 05, 2010

Where to Find Your New 'This Old Thing'

L.A.'s 5 Best Flea Markets

Though part of Los Angeles’s flea market charm is sheer abundance, navigating isn’t always easy. We’re here to help.

Rose Bowl
The big daddy of the bunch is a labyrinth of potential treasures on the second Sunday of every month. Prepare to dig and haggle amid the sprawling setup of antiques, housewares, and piles upon piles of clothes. Get there early, as this one attracts the most serious flea shoppers from all corners of the globe. Entrance is $8, and doors are open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Pasadena City College
PCC’s swap is less known than the neighboring Rose Bowl, but it’s just as much of a gem. Hosted on the first Sunday of every month, vendors set up in the parking structure and outside. Aisles are filled to the brim (think tchotchkes and old records) but worthwhile. Entrance is free, but visitors pay $2 for parking, which you can take care of at the self-service kiosks. Doors are open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Melrose Trading Post
Held every Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., it is significantly more manageable in size and less frenzied than some of the others — plus it’s conveniently located in the middle of the city. A must for any vintage lover, the Fairfax High parking lot provides great style-watching of buyers and sellers alike. It’s just $2 to get in, but be forewarned: Unless you arrive early, parking is notoriously difficult.

Long Beach Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market
Despite the 800-plus vendors, the smart grid layout makes it doable in one day (the third Sunday of every month, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.). And though the location’s not so easy, there are reasonable price tags and elbow room. The heat off the asphalt can be brutal, so take a hat to beat the sun. Entrance costs $5 and parking is free; for an additional $5, early birds get first dibs 5:30 to 6:30 a.m.

Santa Monica Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market
Located in Brentwood next to Santa Monica College, it takes place on the first and fourth Sundays of every month. Prices vary, but the market has a plethora of affordable clothing and furniture. Antique lamps, vintage silk robes, and estate jewelry are just a few items to sniff out on your hunt. Shoppers pay $5 to get in, and the market is open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can get in as early as 6 a.m., but it’ll cost you another two bucks.

Photo: looseends / Flickr

	Under-$50 Finds Swirl scoured its closet to bring you the best fashion under $50 from lovely labels like Dallin Chase and Isabel Lu. While you’re there, hit up the Gar-de sale for up to 60% off tunics, tanks, and dresses.

  Cheap, Cheap Date, Good Clean Fun, Off the Beaten Path, Vintage