The Neighborhood Guide to Shopping in Los Angeles

Shop local vintage stores, high end boutiques, and funky shops

Hennessey + Ingalls | Photo: @hennesseyingalls
Hennessey + Ingalls | Photo: @hennesseyingalls

For visitors and locals alike, Los Angeles is a mecca for shopping. No matter what you're looking for, you're sure to find it in neighborhood shops across L.A. From vintage clothing stores to designer boutiques, home furnishings to rare vinyl, our neighborhood guide has all the best stores, malls, shopping centers and more, throughout Los Angeles. Get ready to shop 'til you drop!

Hennessey + Ingalls bookstore in the Arts District
Photo: Hennessey + Ingalls, Facebook

ARTS DISTRICT

The Arts District in Downtown L.A. wasn't always known as a shopping hub, but it's collection of retail outlets is certainly growing since. Here, you'll find local boutiques and L.A. extensions of chic brands like Shinola and (Malin + Goetz) mixed with more alternative culture-minded shops. The bulk of the shopping here is located either on 3rd Street or at One Santa Fe, but you'll also find a few hot spots off the beaten path.

Photo courtesy of The Garage Board Shop in Boyle Heights, Yelp
Photo courtesy of The Garage Board Shop in Boyle Heights, Yelp

BOYLE HEIGHTS

In Boyle Heights, you'll find a fairly large concentration of retail on Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. You can walk for blocks and pass shop after shop filled with everything from clothing to toys to household items. In addition, you'll find plenty of retail spots on 1st Street. The 1st Street and Cesar Chavez Blvd. shops are easily accessible via multiple stops on Metro's Gold Line. Ramirez's Beverage Center, on Olympic Blvd., is a little off the beaten path, but worth the trip.

Guido in L.A. | Instagram by @historiccore
Guido in L.A. | Instagram by @historiccore

DTLA

From discount fashion to high-end goods to vintage finds, the shopping scene in Downtown Los Angeles has you covered. Downtown L.A. is home to some of the city's best buys, thanks to shopping meccas like the Fashion District and Jewelry District. But Downtown's status as a hip neighborhood on the rise has brought in a host of newer retailers, too.

Jet Rag | Instagram by @23ayame
Jet Rag | Instagram by @23ayame

HOLLYWOOD

From vintage clothing bargains to fine art, shopping in Hollywood spans a wide range of budgets. Hollywood spans tastes, too, and it's a particularly good neighborhood to visit if your interests are specific. Whether you're looking for Hollywood memorabilia, Dr. Martens shoes, or rare vinyl, there's a store for you. Check out our guide to get started on your Hollywood shopping adventure.

Future Music | Instagram by @a_pieceofkate
Future Music | Instagram by @a_pieceofkate

HIGHLAND PARK

A diverse cross section of residents in Highland Park make the neighborhood a haven for treasure seekers of all trades. Musicians, artists and designers have joined families who have been longtime residents of the area, bringing eclectic wares and artisanal crafts. Whether you’re looking for that vintage accessory to complete your outfit or a limited edition vinyl that has long been out of print, Highland Park has the store that has exactly what you’re looking for. Read on for a collection of the best shops in the neighborhood.

MaDang the Courtyard | Photo by Karen Young
MaDang the Courtyard | Photo by Karen Young

KOREATOWN

At only three square miles, Koreatown has more large malls than any similar sized area in America with an emphasis on markets, skin care, and home goods. Peppered among the shops, whether in a mall or side street, are entertainment venues, trendy dessert shops, coffeehouses, and restaurants. Read on for the best shopping destinations in Koreatown.

Photo courtesy of Crafted, Facebook
Photo courtesy of Crafted, Facebook

SAN PEDRO

Since 1821, when this then-Mexican harbor town opened to foreign trade, San Pedro has been a hotbed of shops fulfilling the material needs of travelers, sailors and locals. Today, its relaxed, working class atmosphere is an interesting contrast to some of its more affluent neighbors. From the bustling L.A. Waterfront to the fast-changing Downtown shopping and arts district, San Pedro's small, locally owned businesses still rule the scene. Friendly store owners will tell you their history while helping you find the perfect purchase. Read on for some of the best places for apparel, accessories, and recreational gear in town.

Photo courtesy of Burro
Photo courtesy of Burro

VENICE

If you are searching for a truly eclectic shopping experience, look no further than Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice. This bustling district, which stretches from Venice Boulevard to Pacific Avenue, is a popular destination for Boho chic shoppers. Dubbed "the coolest block in America" by GQ, Abbot Kinney is home to one-of-kind local goods as well as internationally recognized brands.