Your Guide to Shopping in LA
Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels, is a shopper’s paradise. From luxury boutiques to thrift stores, the city has something for every fashion taste and budget. If you’re planning a shopping spree in Los Angeles, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your trip.
The first thing to consider is transportation. Los Angeles is known for its heavy traffic, so it’s best to plan your shopping destinations in advance and group them by location. Public transportation is available, but it can be slow and not always reliable, so renting a car or using a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft may be a better option.
For high-end luxury shopping, head to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. This famous street is lined with designer boutiques, including Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. Even if you can’t afford to splurge on a new handbag or pair of shoes, it’s worth strolling down the street to admire the window displays and people-watch. You might even spot a celebrity or two.
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, head to the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. This outdoor shopping center has a mix of chain stores like H&M and Zara as well as independent boutiques and restaurants. The promenade is also home to the Santa Monica Place mall, which has a range of mid-priced stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s.
For vintage and thrift shopping, head to the Melrose Trading Post. This outdoor market is held every Sunday at Fairfax High School and features over 200 vendors selling everything from vintage clothing and accessories to handmade jewelry and artwork. The market also has live music and food trucks, making it a fun way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Another great spot for vintage shopping is the Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena. Held on the second Sunday of every month, this massive market has over 2,500 vendors selling antiques, vintage clothing, furniture, and more. It can be overwhelming, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
If you’re a fan of streetwear and sneaker culture, head to Fairfax Avenue. This street is home to popular streetwear shops like Supreme, Diamond Supply Co., and Undefeated. The street also has a range of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to spend a day or night out.
For something more unique, head to Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice. This bohemian street is lined with independent boutiques and restaurants, as well as art galleries and studios. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind clothing, jewelry, and home decor.
If you’re looking for something specific, like a rare book or vintage record, head to The Last Bookstore in downtown Los Angeles. This massive bookstore has over 250,000 new and used books, as well as a section dedicated to vinyl records and vintage magazines. The store also hosts author readings and other events, so be sure to check their website before you go.
Another great spot is the historic The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino. The library has a collection of over 11 million items, including rare books, manuscripts, and photographs. The gardens are also worth a visit, with over 120 acres of landscaped gardens and walking paths.
Finally, if you’re looking for something truly unique, head to the Echo Park Craft Fair. This bi-annual event features over 120 artisans selling handmade goods like jewelry, ceramics, and clothing. The event also has food trucks and live music, making it a fun way to spend a day or weekend.
Truly, Los Angeles has something for every type of shopper, from luxury boutiques to vintage markets and independent boutiques. With so many options to choose from, it’s important to plan ahead and prioritize what you want to see and do.