LA’s Melrose Trading Post

Recently, we had a cross-country adventure. We helped our daughter move from NYC to LA! We didn’t get to visit any thrift shops or flea markets along the way, cause we had lots of driving to do, and no place to stash purchases in our packed to the brim vehicle. Imagine! Driving across the entire country and not being able to thrift shop or hit a flea market! I know, it was SO hard. But, lucky for us the morning after we arrived in LA, our daughter and her friend took us to check out a very cool market.

Melrose Trading Post
7850 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Sunday 9am – 5pm  Admission: $3.00
Contact Info.
*Restrooms and wheelchair accessible, food and beverages available

The Melrose Trading Post has been going on every Sunday, for over a decade, in the area surrounding Fairfax high school. The non-profit community based organization that runs the market uses the proceeds to fund programs and award grants for Fairfax High School. The market also acts as a small business incubator of sorts, by providing affordable retail and performance space for vendors, artists and musicians.
Set on a paved area shaded by palm and other trees, the market is large but not un-manageable and is wheelchair and stroller friendly. Pets were also allowed.

During our visit, there were probably over 100 vendors spread out across the market with plenty of room to browse, and a nice variety of goods for sale.
This is not a typical flea market (like we’re used to back East) with folks selling the remnants of their spring cleaning, from the back of a pick up truck. The Melrose Trading Post seems more like a curated show, but don’t be put off by this, as there was affordable things to be found, and vendor’s were willing to “discuss” prices.
It was a challenge not to buy anything, but since we were flying back and trying to travel light I had to pass up on some neat finds.

It was a relaxing market to stroll around, enjoying the sunshine and blue skies. The food area had some really healthy, unique options – the crepes and gluten free baked goods looked delicious. I had a much needed iced coffee (organic, of course). Umbrella shaded tables and chairs, and carpets spread out on the lawn, provided a place to sit back, relax, do some people watching and listen to the live music.

Now that we’ll be visiting our daughter in LA we’re looking forward to exploring more places like the Melrose Trading Post and hopefully get to check out some of the area thrift and vintage stores.