LA’s Best Shopping Stops for Style, Snacks and Souvenirs

LA has shopping for every taste—let us show you where to score big!

Published: June 10, 2026
Girls Shopping in Beverly Hills

Forget packing light—Los Angeles turns shopping into a sightseeing experience all its own. Whether you want to brush shoulders with style icons on Rodeo Drive, hunt vintage treasures in quirky markets, or snap photos at pop-up boutiques and sunny plazas, LA’s shopping scene brings glamour, creativity and pure fun. We’re spotlighting everything from legendary malls to vibrant flea markets, must-visit neighborhoods, and unexpected stops that’ll fill your suitcase with treasure (and your phone with photos). Grab your sunglasses and some comfy shoes; it’s time to shop the city! 

Our favorite places to shop in Los Angeles include: 

  • Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills 
  • The Grove 
  • Melrose Avenue 
  • Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice 
  • Santa Monica Place 
  • Beverly Center 
  • Grand Central Market 
  • Melrose Trading Post 
  • The Original Farmers Market 

Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills 

When people picture shopping in Los Angeles, chances are they see the palm-lined Rodeo Drive. This world-famous stretch of boutiques offers luxury at every turn, from Gucci and Louis Vuitton to Prada, Chanel, and plenty more. You probably won’t rub elbows with Julia Roberts here, but you’ll definitely find yourself surrounded by LA’s latest and greatest fashion trends, jaw-dropping window displays, and shoppers who treat retail like a red-carpet event. The area sparkles with designer jewelry stores and some beautifully curated flagship shops set in glitzy, perfectly manicured surroundings. 

But Rodeo Drive isn’t just about shopping. The vibe is all about living your movie-star moment, even just for the afternoon. Sip an espresso on a sunny terrace, enjoy the people-watching, and snap a selfie with the historic Beverly Wilshire in the background. Don’t miss Via Rodeo—a cobblestoned, European-inspired side street perfect for photos and window browsing. Even if you only snag a small souvenir, you’ll leave feeling a little more glamorous. 

The Grove 

The Grove isn’t just a shopping mall—it’s a slice of LA life complete with a classic trolley, dancing fountains, and twinkling lights. This sprawling outdoor center in the heart of Los Angeles makes shopping fun and accessible with a blend of popular stores like Nordstrom, Apple, and Anthropologie, alongside smaller boutiques for LA-inspired style. The open-air layout, lush landscaping and festive atmosphere make every visit feel like a mini-holiday. 

The Grove is famous for its lively events calendar and A-lister sightings, so you never know who you might bump into. Movie fans, don’t miss the Art Deco-inspired theater for a cozy night out, while foodies can cross the original Farmers Market next door off their list (yes, it’s foodie heaven). Whether you need to update your wardrobe, pick up a book from Barnes & Noble, or just enjoy a people-watching break with a cupcake, The Grove delivers. 

Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue Road Sign

If unique style is your thing, Melrose Avenue promises a shopping adventure packed with character. This neighborhood’s stretches between Fairfax and La Brea bubble with vintage shops, trendy boutiques, and edgy sneaker stores. Think rare sneakers, bold LA streetwear, quirky gift shops, and racks of retro tees—perfect for curating your own California cool look. Murals and eye-catching street art are everywhere, making Melrose as much about the photo ops as the finds. 

Caffeine breaks come easy with sidewalk cafes and juice bars where you can fuel up between shops. Don’t miss the Sunday Melrose Trading Post at Fairfax High for antiques, handmade jewelry, art, and local flavor set to live music. This area keeps its cool no matter the season, so you’ll leave with shopping bags and plenty of instant street style inspiration.  

Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice 

In sunny Venice, Abbot Kinney Boulevard channels LA’s bohemian spirit. This mile-long street is lined with indie boutiques, locally made jewelry, LA-based designers, and artisan home goods, each shop as stylish and relaxed as its shoppers. Think eco-friendly fashion, art galleries, surf shops, and pop-up vendors, often with a friendly dog snoozing by the register. 

The street’s personality extends to its cafes and restaurants, so you’ll be tempted to pause at every corner: dig into vegan tacos at The Butcher’s Daughter, sip a single-origin espresso at Blue Bottle, or cool down with Salt & Straw’s wild ice cream flavors (honey lavender is a crowd favorite). Street art, sunny patios, and a pseudo-European café society vibe make Abbot Kinney perfect for leisurely shopping and lingering conversations. 

Santa Monica Place 

With the ocean breeze as a backdrop, shopping at Santa Monica Place blends retail heaven with beachy California vibes. Just steps from the beach and Third Street Promenade, this sleek, open-air mall delivers the best of both worlds: major names like Nike, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale’s plus a curated roster of SoCal boutiques. It’s the sweet spot for picking up stylish vacation wear or stocking up on essentials before hitting the sand. 

After some wallet-friendly (or wallet-busting) adventures, reward yourself with rooftop dining featuring ocean views. Leave room for a stop at The Cheesecake Factory for a slice of the city’s favorite dessert or catch a movie when you need a sun break. Santa Monica Place’s walkable layout and breezy energy make it a natural stopoff during any coastal LA day. 

Beverly Center 

If you’re looking for a one-stop fashion fix, Beverly Center covers all the bases—luxury labels, contemporary boutiques, and favorite retail chains in one glamorous package. The recently renovated, glossy interior has something for every style, from Bloomingdale’s to Uniqlo, and plenty of mid-range shops in between. Natural light, high design, and easy navigation mean you can shop like a pro without feeling overwhelmed. 

Fuel up at the sleek food court with sushi, poke bowls, or gourmet burgers. Take a shopping break on the outdoor terrace for city views, or hit the cosmetics counters for expert tips and on-trend beauty buys. This destination gives you the fashion spread of Rodeo Drive, but all in one stylish spot, rain or shine. 

Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market

Shopping gets delicious at Grand Central Market, a downtown foodie hub filled with local vendors. This historic food hall buzzes with stalls selling everything from farm-fresh produce and imported spices to handmade goods and culinary curiosities. Pick up local honey, choose from a rainbow of hot sauces, or grab a cool kitchen gadget for your next dinner party back home. 

The best part? Snacking your way through the market while you browse. Try Eggslut’s breakfast sandwiches, chow down on tacos from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, or grab a cold-pressed juice for a quick pick-me-up. The market’s energy makes every visit a feast for the senses, and you’ll leave with a suitcase full of edible souvenirs and sunny LA flavor. 

Melrose Trading Post 

Sunday mornings in LA mean treasure-hunting at Melrose Trading Post. Set in the Fairfax High School parking lot, this weekly flea market brings together hundreds of local artists, collectors, and vintage vendors. Here’s where you’ll find one-of-a-kind jewelry, records, handmade candles, funky home décor, and racks of retro clothing that could spark envy from the coolest Angelenos. 

The friendly, festival-like vibe is half the fun. Grab a fresh lemonade, enjoy live music under the jacaranda trees, and chat with local artists about their work. It’s a place where you’ll find real LA souvenirs, made for mingling and people-watching, and perfect for uncovering a piece of LA you can actually bring home. 

The Original Farmers Market 

One of LA’s best traditions lives at the Original Farmers Market, open since 1934 and still buzzing with color and character. You’ll find a lively mix of gourmet grocers, food counters, and specialty shops under cheerful green-and-white awnings. Fruit stands display the season’s best produce, but there’s plenty more to discover—artisanal cheeses, buckets of fresh flowers, candy shops, spice merchants, and local honey sellers all add to the irresistible jumble. 

Come hungry, because the Farmers Market is a lunchtime paradise. You can grab edible souvenirs or LA-made gifts (hot sauces, jams, and mugs are easy to pack), and the next-door Grove is there when you’re ready for even more retail adventures. This spot offers a time-honored taste of LA that feels as welcoming today as it did when it first opened. 

 

Whether you’re hunting for designer threads, vintage treasures, local art, or delicious food gifts, LA’s shopping neighborhoods and markets treat every visitor to a blend of creativity, style, and fun. Wherever you explore, you’ll find much more than just souvenirs: you’ll collect stories and memories, too. So ,save some space in your bag—trust us, you’ll need it! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do with Family in Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes   

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Aerial view of the Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park in California.
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Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain LA

Thinking of visiting an LA theme park but just can’t decide which to choose? Fair enough: the City of Angels has more fab amusement parks than even the most dedicated thrill seeker could hope to experience in a single visit. There’s Universal Studios Hollywood for starters. Also Disneyland and its sibling, the Disney California Adventure Park so, y’know, we’re talking some pretty big beasts of the amusement park scene here. Holding their own among these titans are Knott’s Berry Farm (aka America’s first theme park) and Six Flags Magic Mountain (current holder of the record for most rollercoasters in an amusement park). Read on to discover the relative merits of these two fine LA parks... Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: A Short History Opened in 1971, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a mere baby to Knott’s Berry Farm’s century-old theme park. But blimey, it’s one heck of a great big bouncing baby, weighing in at 209 acres and 35 rides, of which a record-smashing 20 (yes, twenty) are rollercoasters. Located in Valencia, 35 miles north of downtown LA, this is a park that has always pushed the boundaries in terms of number of loops, heights and angles of drops and, well, just sheer terror levels as your (thankfully strapped in) body hurtles towards terra firma at frankly unnatural speeds. In other words, Six Flags Magic Mountain will appeal primarily to adrenalin junkies, as well as fans of the DC universe: the park has rides themed around Superman, Wonder Woman, Lex Luthor and the Justice League. Quirky fact: Michael Jackson visited the park in 1985, riding attractions including Colossus (now the New Colossus) and the Roaring Rapids. Whether Bubbles accompanied him on the rides or not is, we're sorry to say, lost to history. Sure, at a relatively diminutive 57 acres, Knott’s Berry Farm isn’t on quite the same scale as Magic Mountain. But what this Buena Park stalwart does have is great boysenberry pie, pedigree in spades and a smart use of space that equates to nearly 50 rides across its five zones. It’s no slouch when it comes to thrill rides either. From humble beginnings as a berry farm and roadside stand a century ago, Knott’s has been through many iterations, launching a ghost town in the 1940s and adding a log ride in the 70s. But it was the sale of the park to Cedar Fair in the 1990s that really upped the thrill factor with the addition of several high-octane rides. However, at the Knott’s family’s wishes, the park has retained much of the personality of its founders Walter and Cordelia Knott, meaning that, among other things, the (huge) fried chicken dinners and sweet berry pies that many consider synonymous with the park can still be sampled in its cafes and restaurants. Quirky fact: all boysenberries today are genetically traceable to Knott’s Berry Farm, where Walter first cultivated the raspberry-blackberry-loganberry-dewberry hybrid in the 1920s. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: Thrill Rides Thrill rides is really where both of these parks excel, and hopeless adrenalin fiends should definitely make a beeline for both when spending time in LA. But, by sheer dint of numbers, Magic Mountain has the edge here. And, with a world-beating 20 rollercoasters, how could it not? Start queuing early for Superman: Escape from Krypton, one of the park’s most popular rides. Once the tallest coaster in the world, this thrill-a-second adventure reaches 100mph in just seven seconds before flipping its victims riders through backward and forward-facing drops at lightning speeds. DC fans will also thrill to the 4D effects and immersive battle scenes on the Justice League; Battle for Metropolis ride. Full Throttle does exactly what it says on the tin, rattling around the tallest vertical loop in North America at terrifying speeds, while Goliath and Scream’s names are also helpfully descriptive in terms of what to expect. In short, if it’s thrills, spills and squeals you’re after, Six Flags Magic Mountain is the LA theme park for you. This is an impossible category for any theme park to win when pitted against Magic Mountain, but Knott’s Berry Farm holds its own admirably, with a fine selection of rip-roaring hair-raisers. Rides like the Xcelerator, which catapults passengers sky high, reaching 82mph in a (literally) breathtaking 2.3 seconds. HangTime is definitely one to try before you’ve eaten lunch, given that its hook is the stomach-dropping sensation that you’re floating (hence the name) as you take the utterly terrifying 96-degree drop. Ghost Rider is the longest, tallest and fastest wooden rollercoaster in the West, ideal if you like your thrill rides to create the illusion of being rickety and unsafe (which it isn’t, of course), while Silver Bullet is a foot-dangling inverted coaster with a whopping six loops. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: Family Rides There’s no denying that there are better theme park options for kids around LA – *cough* Disneyland *cough* – but Knott’s and Magic Mountain do also offer a few gentler rides for the kiddiwinks to enjoy. Each puts their own spin (geddit?) on the traditional teacup ride, with a Mad Hatter theme at Knott’s and cute Pepe Le Pew cups at Magic Mountain. Meanwhile, Magic Mountain’s Bugs Bunny World – chock full of Looney Tunes themed rides – is the answer to Knott’s Berry Farm’s Camp Snoopy, where you’ll find the Peanuts gang in residence. Expect carousels, bumper cars, miniature trains and character meet and greets at both locations, as well as a strong selection of rides for the whole family to enjoy together, from log flumes to swinging pirate ships and mine rides. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: Water Rides Getting a drenching is an essential ingredient of any successful amusement park excursion so you'll be delighted to hear that both parks really deliver on this front. The Calico River Rapids in Knott’s Ghost Town zone takes riders splashing and spinning downriver in big round family-friendly dinghies. But if you really want to guarantee that soaking, hit up the Timber Mountain Log Ride (pictured) for an early bath at the end of its 42-foot free fall finale. Over at Magic Mountain, the Jet Stream log flume is a family favorite that has the drop’n’drench maneuver down to a fine art. The 11-seater Roaring Rapids ride is a little more lively than its Knott’s rival, tossing hapless riders through unpredictable currents, white water waves and treacherous whirlpools, meaning that coveted drenching is all but guaranteed. NB: Both Knott’s and Magic Mountain also have separately ticketed water parks that are open from May to September. Fast facts: Knott’s Berry Farm Tickets Go City’s All-Inclusive attraction pass includes general admission and saves you money when visiting multiple attractions in LA. Buy a 1, 2, 3 or 5-day pass to access as many attractions as you like in that time period, including Universal Studios and Six Flags Magic Mountain. You can also book tickets direct via the Knott’s Berry Farm website. Opening Hours The park generally opens daily at 10AM. Closing times vary by season. Check the calendar on the Knott’s Berry Farm website for the most up-to-date information. Getting There Knott’s Berry Farm is at 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 9062. There’s paid parking on site, or you can take a train to nearby Buena Park Metrolink station. More info on transport options here. Fast facts: Six Flags Magic Mountain Tickets An All-Inclusive attraction pass from Go City includes general admission and saves you money when visiting multiple attractions in LA. Buy a 1, 2, 3 or 5-day pass to access as many attractions as you like in that time period, including La Brea Tar Pits and Knott’s Berry Farm. You can also book tickets direct via the Six Flags Magic Mountain website. Opening Hours Hours vary throughout the year but Magic Mountain usually opens between at 10:30AM and stays open until anywhere between 6PM and 10PM depending on the season. View the calendar here. Getting There Six Flags Magic Mountain is at 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355, just north of Los Angeles, at the Magic Mountain Parkway exit off Interstate 5. Some public transport is seasonal and you’ll find the best and most up-to-date options here. Save on attractions in Los Angeles Save on admission to Los Angeles attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
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Los Angeles in May

There are so many great things to see and do in Los Angeles in May! The sun is out, the days are longer, and spring is in full swing. Around this time of the year, the city comes alive with countless seasonal activities and events for all types of travellers. As for the month’s major holidays, don’t forget to check out the awesome things to do for Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. The weather is warm and balmy, so this is also prime time for exploring a lot of L.A.’s best outdoor attractions. Still daunted by the prospect of exploring a new city? Don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! Have a read through our list of the best things to check out in the area. However you choose to explore Los Angeles, we’re sure you’ll have a blast! See the City As one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States, Los Angeles isn’t exactly short of great attractions to choose from. Still, when the sun comes out, nothing quite beats a day at the Santa Monica Pier. Since first opening to the public way back in 1909, this beloved tourist hotspot now draws in a whopping 8 million visitors annually - and who are we to argue with that many people? Perhaps the pier’s most popular draw is Pacific Park, an admission-free amusement park with a great blend of rides for kids and thrillseekers alike. Or, if you’re looking to just take it slow, the Santa Monica Pier Farmers’ Market is the place to be. Open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, this spot works to highlight California’s agricultural heritage with a fantastic array of local vendors. And of course, it just wouldn’t be a pier if you couldn’t grab a rod and try a hand at fishing for yourself. The pier is an ideal place for catching everything from small sea creatures like clams to even mackerel and sea bass. A quintessential Los Angeles attraction, this spot is well worth the visit. Los Angeles is a sprawling seaside metropolis made up of countless unique neighborhoods. Still, one of our favorite spots to check out has got to be Venice for its distinctive style and laidback, funky atmosphere. One of the most popular things to do there is hit the beach - that is, Venice Beach, of course. A prime tourist destination, this spot is known for its sun-kissed shorelines and bohemian boardwalk. Still, there’s a lot more to do in Venice than just the beach. Another one of our favorite activities has got to be walking the Venice Canals. Nestled away between the Venice Boardwalk and the Abbot Kinney, the Venice Canals offer a scenic stroll along the charming beach houses and romantic bridges of the area. All in all, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Los Angeles. Get Cultured It practically goes without saying that Los Angeles is a total treat for art lovers and culture vultures. 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County Fair has been drawing in visitors in from near and far ever since. Nowadays, this classic crowdpleaser is recognized as the fourth largest fair in the United States - and with good reason! Guests can expect to experience a heck of a lot all in one place - no, really, we mean it! Whilst this attraction initially began as an agricultural show, it has since spread its wings with everything from wine tastings and exhibitions to modern acrobats and concerts. Still, the fair maintains some of its old-style charm with classic carnival rides like the Ferris wheel. And if you were wondering about food (and let’s face it - why wouldn’t you be?) you’ll find plenty of different vendors serving up traditional fairground favorites like chilli cheese curly fries, deep-fried Oreos and cotton candy. A little bit old-school and a whole lot of fun, this spot is a total must-see. After a long day of touring, you might just want to kick back and relax with a great movie. And of course, there’s no place quite like Los Angeles to catch a movie. During the springtime, you can find all types of twists on the typical movie theater experience around the city, but our favorite is the fantastic rooftop experience. Taking cinema out from the theater to under the starry night’s sky, this experience most certainly ups the ante. The Rooftop Cinema Club are known for their broad programming, showing everything from old favorites and cult classics, to modern box-office hits. There is also a concession stand with traditional movie theater snacks, like hotdogs, popcorn and candy. The perfect way to spend a balmy springtime evening, this place is sure to hit the spot. L.A. is a great city to visit all year round, though we especially love it in the springtime. From taking a stroll down the Venice Canals to checking out the L.A. County fair, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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