There is nothing Americans like more than a bargain, and the residents of Long Beach are no exception. From the bustling traders and busy stalls to the potential of a precious find, flea markets are an American staple. Here are some of the best in the Long Beach area.
A champion of small businesses, the Urban Hive Market is a staple in Long Beach and a great chance to discover a unique find. With more than 50 vendors offering everything from food to handmade crafts and vintage clothing, there is sure to be something that catches your eye. The market takes place on a Saturday night every month at the Pike Outlets just near the waterfront.
Spread over 17 acres (7ha) of land and featuring hundreds of vendors, the Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet is a firm favorite among families and flea-market fans. The market, which lies inside a former drive-in theater, has thousands of items on offer, including collectables, clothes and handmade crafts. If you are looking for a little entertainment while you lighten your wallet, it has live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
The Roadium Open Air Market stands apart from other flea markets on this list, as it’s open seven days a week year-round. With nearly 500 sellers offering everything you can think of, the Roadium – in the nearby city of Torrance – welcomes around 1.5m guests a year. During summer weekends, the market doubles up as a drive-in cinema, giving you a chance to catch some Hollywood classics on the big screen.
The bustling Cypress College Swap Meet is a great spot for discerning shoppers looking to find a good deal – if you are ready to haggle. The market is full of old and new items to search through and has several food vendors selling a variety of delicious street food. It’s open every Saturday and Sunday, and with free parking and free entry available, you can while away the day perusing the stalls.
Among Southern California’s most popular swap meets, the Del Amo Plaza Indoor Swap Meet is a perfect place to go if you’re looking for a bargain. Just a short distance from downtown Long Beach, the plaza has plenty on offer but with a special focus on clothing and cosmetics. Also, be sure to check out the vibrant art murals that cover the building’s exterior.
The So-Cal Cycle Swap Meet is a must-visit for any motorcycle enthusiast, as it’s among the largest monthly gatherings of motorcyclists in the country. Attended by a few thousand guests every month and featuring more than 500 vendors and 1,000 motorcycles, the market is a great place to meet like-minded bike buffs and find some great deals. Even if you’ve no interest in buying, it makes for a great day out.