Melrose Trading Post
Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, the Melrose Trading Post has established itself as a quintessential Sunday destination for treasure hunters and creative souls alike. This open-air marketplace transforms the corner of Melrose and Fairfax into a vibrant community hub every weekend, showcasing an eclectic mix of vintage finds, handcrafted goods, and artisanal creations. Unlike typical thrift stores, the Melrose Trading Post offers a curated experience where over 200 local vendors display their unique wares against the backdrop of the historic Fairfax High School campus. Since 1997, this beloved Los Angeles institution has supported arts education while providing a platform for small businesses and independent artists to thrive in the competitive California retail landscape.
Store Information
7850 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, California 90046Phone: +1 323-655-7679
Email: mtpadmin@greenwayarts.org
Website: http://melrosetradingpost.org/
Store Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 10AM-5PM
What They Sell
The Melrose Trading Post offers an impressively diverse array of merchandise that sets it apart from conventional thrift shopping. Visitors can browse through carefully curated vintage clothing spanning every era, from 1950s cocktail dresses to 90s sportswear. The marketplace features an abundance of retro furniture, mid-century modern decor, vinyl records, rare books, and unique collectibles. What truly distinguishes the Trading Post is its emphasis on handcrafted items—from original artwork and photography to handmade jewelry, custom leather goods, and small-batch apothecary products created by local Los Angeles artisans.
The Neighborhood
The Melrose Trading Post sits at the pulsing intersection of Melrose and Fairfax Avenues, one of Los Angeles' most iconic shopping districts. This vibrant neighborhood is the epicenter of LA's fashion-forward scene, surrounded by trendy boutiques, world-famous streetwear shops, and eye-catching street art. Just minutes from The Grove and Farmers Market, and a short drive from Hollywood attractions, this central location makes it an accessible destination for both locals and tourists exploring Los Angeles, California.
Parking
Parking near the Melrose Trading Post can be competitive on Sundays. The marketplace offers paid parking in the Fairfax High School lot for a reasonable fee (typically $5-10), with proceeds benefiting school programs. Free street parking is available on surrounding residential streets, though spots within a few blocks fill quickly. Many regular visitors recommend arriving before 11AM to secure convenient parking or utilizing ride-sharing services to avoid parking altogether in this busy Los Angeles shopping district.
Shopping Tips
- Bring cash! While many vendors accept cards, having cash often leads to better deals and smoother transactions.
- Visit the ATM before arriving as lines can get long.
- Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing as you'll be walking outdoors for hours.
- Don't be afraid to negotiate prices respectfully—many vendors expect it, especially later in the day.
- Follow @melrosetradingpost on Instagram to preview special vendors and events before your visit.
- For the best selection, arrive early; for potential discounts, shop during the final hour when vendors may offer deals to avoid packing up merchandise.
Nearby Thrift Stores
Other thrift, vintage, and second-hand stores near Melrose Trading Post:
- Buffalo Exchange — Los Angeles, California
- The Council Shop — Los Angeles, California
- Out of the Closet Thrift Store — Los Angeles, California
- Goodwill Southern California Store & Donation Center — Los Angeles, California
- Feathers — Los Angeles, California
- Due Date Studios — Los Angeles, California
- Out of the Closet - West Hollywood — West Hollywood, California
- Jet Rag — Los Angeles, California
Find More Thrift Stores in Los Angeles, California
Discover more second-hand shops and vintage stores near Los Angeles, California.