| Vacationers love Southern California because there's | | | | old handbags, and more. |
| so much to see and do. But with so many attractions | | | | You can -- and should -- do a little bargaining here, but |
| to choose from, many travelers never get around to | | | | don't come looking for steals. |
| hitting the flea markets. Southern California has some | | | | The Long Beach Outdoor Antique Market, which takes |
| of the best in the world. So whether you are a serious | | | | place on the third Sunday of each month, is held in |
| collector, or just looking for a fun souvenir, chances are | | | | Veterans Stadium. It's been going strong since starting |
| you'll find something cool. You'll also experience a slice | | | | in 1982 and has more than 800 dealers. It's good for |
| of local culture and maybe even see a star or two. | | | | old furniture, vintage clothes, rugs, lamps, and other |
| If you're here on the weekend, you're in luck, because | | | | items for the home. As one of the biggest markets on |
| there's a flea market somewhere every Sunday. | | | | the west coast, it's worth the drive. |
| Some are good for an hour or so, others can take | | | | Trend-setters and fashionistas will enjoy the Melrose |
| most of the day. Lather up with sunscreen, bring some | | | | Trading Post in the parking lot of Fairfax High School. It |
| cash, and get ready to bargain. | | | | takes place every Sunday. About 3,000 people show |
| Housed in the parking lot of the Pasadena football | | | | up to look for vintage clothing, alternative music, 1970s |
| stadium, the Rose Bowl Flea Market is the most | | | | stuff, and kitschy items. Live music and a few food |
| popular one in Los Angeles. It takes place on the | | | | trucks round out the scene. Young celebrities and set |
| second Sunday of the month. On nice days, more than | | | | designers often visit. |
| 20,000 people might show up. There are usually about | | | | The Santa Monica Airport hosts the Santa Monica |
| 2,500 vendors selling everything from old record | | | | Outdoor Antique & Collectible Market on the first and |
| albums to vintage clothes to fine antiques. There are a | | | | fourth Sundays. The market at the end of the month is |
| couple of food stands, so you can grab a bite and | | | | more popular, with around 175 vendors. Doors open at |
| keep shopping. | | | | 6AM. The goods here are of better quality than at the |
| If you're an avid collector, come early. Your admission | | | | other markets, and you'll find real antiques, nice carpets, |
| fee will vary based on when you arrive. Gates open at | | | | painting, textiles, and decorative objects. |
| 5AM, but a lot of stands don't set up that early. | | | | The only market with no admission fee, Pasadena City |
| Admission starts at $20 and goes down until the box | | | | College Flea Market takes place on the first Sunday of |
| office closes at 3 o'clock. | | | | the month. It's the favorite of bargain hunters and |
| Many of the Rose Bowl vendors specialize in one | | | | others just looking for a low-key afternoon. There are |
| type of antique or collectible. And you can find almost | | | | usually around 500 vendors selling everything from |
| anything here. In addition to the expected, you'll find old | | | | costume jewelry to old bicycles. |
| typewriters, musical instruments, paintings, rugs, jewelry, | | | | |