5 Antique Stores in Los Angeles You Shouldn’t Miss
Los Angeles is a city full of unique style and history, which you can find reflected in its many antique stores. I have explored several shops where you can discover everything from vintage furniture to rare collectibles.
If you’re looking for great places to shop for antiques in Los Angeles, it’s important to know where to find the best selection of quality, unique items. These stores offer a mix of old treasures that show the city’s rich and diverse past.
1: Olde Good Things
When I visited Olde Good Things, I was impressed by the wide variety of antique items they offer. The store focuses on architectural artifacts and reclaimed materials. It felt like walking through a treasure trove of unique pieces from different eras.
The mantel collection stood out to me. They have mantels in many styles, like Victorian, Craftsman, and French. These could add character to old homes or new projects. The mix of vintage and industrial styles was interesting to see in person.
The staff was helpful and seemed knowledgeable about the history of many items. The store’s location in downtown Los Angeles makes it a good stop if you are exploring the area. I found many unexpected items that could fit different tastes and budgets.
Rating: 4.5 (119 reviews)\
Location: 1800 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA\
Contact: (213) 746-8600\
Website: Visit Website
2: The Mart Collective
When I visited The Mart Collective, I was impressed by the size of the space. It stretches across 16,000 square feet and holds over 100 dealers. Each dealer offers different kinds of antiques and vintage items, which made the experience feel like a treasure hunt.
The variety of items is broad. I saw everything from furniture and home goods to vintage clothing and unique props. The mix of styles means you can find both classic and quirky pieces to suit many tastes.
The store feels well-organized, making it easy to browse without feeling overwhelmed. The staff were friendly and willing to answer questions, which helped me learn more about some of the unique items I found.
Rating: 4.1 (115 reviews)\
Location: 1600 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291\
Contact: (310) 450-5142\
Website: Visit Website
3: Big Daddy’s Antiques
I walked into Big Daddy’s Antiques and immediately noticed the large, open space filled with vintage furniture and unique lighting. The store has a mix of old and reproduction pieces that seem carefully selected. It feels more like a warehouse than a typical shop, which gives it a cool, authentic vibe.
The furniture ranges from stylish chairs and tables to interesting home decor items. I saw some custom pieces too, which adds variety if you want something different or personalized. The lighting options caught my eye as well, from classic lamps to more modern designs.
The staff was friendly and helpful when I asked about some items. It’s the kind of place where you can spend time browsing and discovering small treasures for your home. I liked how everything was well organized despite the large space, making it easy to find what you need.
Rating: 4.3 (63 reviews)\
Location: 3334 La Cienega Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90016\
Contact: (310) 769-6600\
Website: Visit Website
4: City Vintage
City Vintage is a small antique store I found tucked away on N Figueroa Street. The moment I walked in, I noticed a mix of vintage furniture, decor, and unique collectibles. It feels like a place where every item has a story.
The staff was friendly and ready to help without being pushy. I appreciated the clear pricing and the well-organized layout, which made browsing easy. The shop has a relaxed vibe, perfect for spending some time looking through old treasures.
I saw pieces that ranged from mid-century to rustic styles. Whether you’re a collector or just looking for something special, City Vintage has a solid selection. It’s a good stop if you want something out of the ordinary for your home or gifts.
Rating: 4.8 (28 reviews)\
Location: 2650 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90065\
Contact: (323) 352-3071
5: Sherman Oaks Antique Mall
I visited Sherman Oaks Antique Mall and found it full of interesting vintage items. There are about 100 dealers inside, offering a wide range of furniture, decorations, and jewelry. It felt like a good place to explore if you like unique old things.
The mall is indoors, so it’s easy to browse even if the weather isn’t great. I appreciated how the space was well-organized and not too crowded, which made it easier to look at each booth carefully. There were some cool vintage clothes, too, and I saw people buying jewelry.
The staff seemed helpful when I asked questions, and the atmosphere was relaxed. It’s a spot that suits both serious collectors and casual shoppers wanting to find a special gift or decoration for their home.
Rating: 4.6 (211 reviews)\
Location: 14034 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423\
Contact: (818) 906-0338\
Website: Visit Website
Understanding the Antique Market in Los Angeles
The antique market in Los Angeles is unique because of its mix of old Hollywood flair, international influence, and a wide range of styles. The types of antiques found here often reflect the city’s history and culture, along with popular design trends that collectors seek.
Characteristics of Local Antiques
Many antiques in Los Angeles come with a story linked to the city’s entertainment industry or its diverse neighborhoods. You’ll find a variety of items, from vintage Hollywood memorabilia to classic furniture pieces made by local craftsmen.
The market includes everything from small collectibles like advertising signs and glassware to large, rare furniture pieces. Shops often carry items that range in condition, so buyers can find either untouched originals or well-restored objects.
What stands out is the availability of both affordable items and true high-end collectibles. This makes the market accessible to casual buyers and serious collectors alike, with many places offering expert knowledge to help navigate this variety.
Popular Styles and Eras
Mid-century modern is a major style trend in LA’s antique shops. This includes sleek furniture with clean lines, and decorative objects from the 1950s and 60s.
Victorian and Art Deco pieces also show up often. These styles add elegance and detail, appealing to those who want classic or historic looks.
Hollywood glamor drives demand for rare collectibles from the Golden Age of cinema, including movie posters, cameras, and costume jewelry. Additionally, Pasadena and other nearby areas offer older European-influenced antiques like Baroque and Rococo pieces, which contrast with the more modern styles found downtown.
The blend of these styles reflects LA’s mix of old and new, plus its role as a cultural crossroads, creating a rich shopping experience.
Tips for Shopping at Antique Stores
Shopping at antique stores takes some skill. You need to tell real pieces from fakes and know how to get a fair price. Both of these steps will help you find good items without overpaying. I focus on careful examination and clear communication to make smart choices.
Evaluating Authenticity
When I check an item’s authenticity, I look closely at its materials and construction. Real antiques often show signs of age, like wear in places that would naturally get used, uneven finishes, or old hardware. For example, screws and nails should look handmade or show signs of rust if they are original.
I also research the maker’s marks or stamps on pieces. These details can confirm the item’s origin and age. If a label looks brand new or glued on, that is a warning sign.
Finally, I trust my instincts but use reference books or online databases to compare similar antiques. If something feels off, I ask the store owner for more history before buying.
Negotiating Prices
I always try to negotiate when shopping antiques but keep it respectful. Before starting, I know the item’s market value by checking online prices or visiting several stores. This helps me set a fair offer.
When I speak with the seller, I point out any flaws or repairs I noticed, like scratches or replaced parts. These can be good reasons to ask for a lower price. I avoid lowballing, which can offend the seller and shut down talks.
I also listen carefully. Sometimes sellers share the item’s background or why they priced it a certain way, which helps me judge if a deal is good or not.
If the seller is firm on price, I may ask about extras like free delivery or a discount if I buy more than one item. This can add value without lowering the price directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve found that knowing what to focus on helps when visiting different antique stores in Los Angeles. Some shops are known for trustworthiness and quality, while others offer specific types or eras of antiques.
What should I look for when choosing a reputable antique store in Los Angeles?
I look for stores that have clear pricing and detailed information about the items. Shops like Olde Good Things and Sherman Oaks Antique Mall often have knowledgeable staff who can answer questions and provide item history.
It’s important to check if the store has good reviews and a steady flow of customers. Places with a long history or strong local reputation usually take pride in authenticity and quality.
Are there any antique stores in Los Angeles that specialize in certain periods or types of antiques?
Yes, some stores focus on specific styles or time periods. For example, The Mart Collective offers a variety of mid-century modern pieces, while City Vintage often carries Victorian and early 20th-century home decor.
Big Daddy’s Antiques tends to have a broad mix but leans toward vintage furniture and unique collectibles. Knowing what periods or styles a store specializes in can save you time and help you find what you want faster.
