Nestled in the vibrant city of Long Beach, California, the Long Beach Antique Market stands as one of Southern California’s most beloved and respected destinations for vintage enthusiasts, seasoned collectors, and creative design professionals alike. Other LA area markets include the Los Feliz Flea, Los Angeles, CA, and the Long Beach Antique Market. This sprawling open-air marketplace has become an iconic pilgrimage site for anyone seeking authentic antiques, retro treasures, and one-of-a-kind finds that tell stories of bygone eras.
Held monthly at the historic Veterans Memorial Stadium, this massive flea market spans over twenty acres of carefully curated vendor spaces, hosting more than eight hundred dealers who come from across the region to showcase their finest collections. From mid-century modern furniture that captures the sleek elegance of the 1950s and 60s, to rare vinyl records that collectors have searched for years to find, from exquisite vintage fashion to timeless decorative pieces the market offers something truly special for every taste and budget.
Whether you’re a dedicated antique hunter who has been attending markets for decades, a professional interior designer searching for inspiration and statement pieces, or simply a weekend explorer looking for unique treasures to brighten your home, the Long Beach Antique Market promises an unforgettable shopping experience that transcends the typical retail encounter.
What Makes the Long Beach Antique Market Special
The Long Beach Antique Market isn’t just another flea market it’s a carefully curated cultural experience that blends nostalgia, creativity, history, and community. Unlike smaller local markets, this venue attracts some of the finest antique and vintage dealers from the West Coast. The sheer scale and reputation of the market has made it a destination spot for interior designers, film industry scouts, and serious collectors from across Southern California and beyond.
The atmosphere here is electric and inspiring. Thousands of visitors walk through the market each month, creating a vibrant community of collectors, designers, casual shoppers, and history lovers. The energy is infectious, and the potential for discovery is genuinely limitless. Browse our ultimate guide to California flea markets to uncover local treasures, vintage deals, and markets worth a road trip. Every vendor booth represents a unique collection curated with passion and expertise, telling stories of different eras and aesthetics.
Essential Information & Venue Details
Basic Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue Name | Long Beach Antique Market |
| Location | Veterans Memorial Stadium |
| Address | 4901 E Conant St, Long Beach, CA 90808 |
| Phone | (323) 655-5703 |
| Market Size | Over 20 acres |
| Number of Vendors | 800+ dealers |
| Frequency | Monthly (Third Sunday) |
Operating Hours
The Long Beach Antique Market operates on a limited schedule, focusing on one designated day each month:
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 5:30 AM – 2:00 PM |
| All Other Days | Closed |
Note: The market is specifically held on the third Sunday of each month. It’s recommended to arrive as early as possible gates open at 5:30 AM to secure the best parking spots and have first pick of items before popular vendors are picked over by other eager shoppers.
Admission Pricing & Entry Options
The Long Beach Antique Market offers flexible admission options to suit different shopping preferences and budgets:
| Admission Type | Price |
|---|---|
| General Admission | $10 per person |
| Early Admission | $15 per person |
| Children Under 12 | FREE |
| Seniors (with ID) | Discounted rates available |
Early admission is particularly valuable if you’re a serious collector or designer looking for the most sought-after pieces. The extra cost often pays for itself when you have first access to premium vintage furniture, rare collectibles, and specialty items before the crowd arrives.
Getting There: Transportation & Parking Guide
Parking Options
One of the great advantages of the Long Beach Antique Market is the abundance of free parking available directly on-site at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Parking access is conveniently located from Conant Street, making entry straightforward for visitors arriving by car.
Important Note: Because the market draws large crowds particularly during peak hours mid-morning through early afternoon parking can fill up quickly during popular shopping times. Arriving early, ideally when the market opens at 5:30 AM, is strongly recommended to ensure you secure a convenient spot close to the entrance. Early arrivals often find that parking is plentiful and they’re able to park within a short walking distance of the vendor area.
Freeway Access
The venue is easily accessible from Southern California’s major freeway system:
- I-405 (San Diego Freeway) – Primary access from north and south
- I-605 (Long Beach Freeway) – Direct access from surrounding areas
- I-710 (Long Beach Freeway) – Nearby alternative route
GPS coordinates and detailed directions are readily available through major navigation apps.
Public Transportation
For those preferring not to drive, Long Beach offers robust public transit options:
- Long Beach Transit Routes: Bus routes 102 and 104 provide direct service to Veterans Memorial Stadium
- Service Hours: Transit service aligns with market hours
- Accessibility: Routes are wheelchair accessible for visitors with mobility needs
Rideshare Services
Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services operate in Long Beach with dedicated drop-off and pick-up zones located conveniently near the market’s main entrance. This option works particularly well if you’re visiting from out of town and prefer not to worry about driving and parking.
What You’ll Find at the Market
Categories of Merchandise
The Long Beach Antique Market offers an impressive diversity of items across multiple categories:
Mid-Century and Vintage Furniture
One of the market’s most popular categories, featuring authentic mid-century modern pieces from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. Expect to find iconic designs including eames-style chairs, teak dressers, Danish modern credenzas, and statement sofas that have become increasingly sought after by interior designers and home enthusiasts.
Jewelry and Fashion Accessories
From vintage costume jewelry with Art Deco designs to fine antique pieces featuring genuine gemstones and precious metals, the jewelry vendors offer exceptional variety. You’ll also find designer handbags, belts, scarves, and other accessories from different decades.
Artwork and Decorative Pieces
Paintings, prints, sculptures, and decorative objects from various artistic periods and styles. Whether you’re seeking original artwork or mass-produced vintage prints, there’s something for every aesthetic preference.
Vintage Clothing and Fashion
A treasure trove of garments from multiple eras, including 1950s day dresses, 1970s bohemian wear, leather jackets, vintage denim, and even costume pieces. Fashion lovers often spend hours exploring the clothing vendors’ racks.
Records, Memorabilia, and Collectibles
Vinyl record enthusiasts will find countless albums spanning jazz, rock, soul, classical, and more. The market also features sports memorabilia, vintage toys, comic books, movie posters, and other collectible items that appeal to serious collectors.
Handcrafted Goods and Specialty Items
Artisans and makers showcase handmade jewelry, ceramics, woodwork, and unique specialty items. These vendors add a contemporary craft element to the market’s vintage focus.
Vendor Information & Participation
About Our Vendors
The Long Beach Antique Market attracts one of the largest and most dedicated groups of vendors in California. These aren’t casual sellers most are professional antique dealers, collectors, and specialty retailers who have spent years developing their expertise and cultivating their collections.
Vendor spaces are competitively priced at a starting rate of ninety-five dollars, and all spaces must be reserved well in advance. This reservation requirement ensures consistency in quality and maintains the market’s reputation as a curated, professional event rather than an unorganized yard sale.
Most Popular Vendor Categories
Some of the most popular and frequently visited vendor stalls at the market include:
- Mid-Century Modern Furniture Specialists: Dealers who focus exclusively on authentic pieces from the 1950s-70s, often with documented provenance
- Vintage Fashion Boutiques: Carefully curated clothing selections spanning decades, often organized by era or style
- Fine Jewelry Dealers: Offering both costume jewelry and fine pieces, including vintage engagement rings and heirloom items
- Rare Vinyl Specialists: Record dealers with extensive collections spanning all genres, including hard-to-find pressings
- Retro Décor and Signage Shops: Featuring vintage signs, neon lights, and decorative objects that attract designers and collectors
Accommodation Options for Out-of-Town Visitors
If you’re planning a visit from outside the Long Beach area and want to maximize your market experience, the city offers several convenient hotel options:
Budget-Friendly Options
Several economical motels provide quick overnight accommodations without breaking the bank, perfect for those who want to stay close enough to arrive early for the best shopping.
Family-Friendly Hotels
Many hotels near Veterans Stadium offer family amenities including pools, free breakfast, and spacious rooms—ideal for weekend trips where you want to combine antique market shopping with other Long Beach attractions.
Upscale Accommodations
For a more luxurious experience, Long Beach’s downtown area features modern upscale hotels with premium amenities. These properties offer easy access to the market, plus proximity to other attractions including the beautiful beach, the Long Beach Aquarium, and fine dining restaurants.
Pro Tip: Staying nearby allows you to arrive at the market when gates open at 5:30 AM, giving you optimal shopping conditions and the best selection before crowds arrive.
Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
Before You Go
- Mark Your Calendar: The market is held on the third Sunday of each month
- Check the Weather: Long Beach’s weather is generally mild, but bring layers
- Bring Identification: You’ll need ID for early admission pricing if applicable
What to Bring
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking over twenty acres quality footwear makes a huge difference
- Cash: While some vendors accept cards, many prefer cash and may offer discounts for cash purchases
- Tote Bag, Wagon, or Cart: Essential for carrying purchases, as items can add weight quickly
- Reusable Shopping Bags: Help reduce waste and make carrying easier
- Sunscreen and Hat: Even in cooler months, the sun reflects off the pavement
Shopping Strategy
- Arrive Early: 5:30 AM opening time offers the best selection and easiest parking
- Bring a Notebook: Jot down vendor booth numbers for items you want to return to later
- Wear Comfortable, Casual Clothing: You’ll be moving between booths frequently—dress for mobility
- Come Hungry: The food court offers coffee, snacks, and breakfast items
- Take Breaks: The market is large; pacing yourself ensures you enjoy the experience fully
Negotiation and Purchasing
- Be Ready to Bargain Politely: Many vendors, particularly for larger purchases or multiple items, are open to negotiation and may offer discounts
- Ask About Bundle Deals: Purchasing multiple items from the same vendor often results in better pricing
- Check Item Condition: Examine vintage pieces carefully for damage or wear that might affect value
- Ask Questions: Vendors love discussing their items and sharing the stories behind pieces
Instagram-Worthy Market Moments
The Long Beach Antique Market is a photographer’s paradise, filled with visually stunning scenes perfect for capturing and sharing on social media:
Popular Photo Opportunities
Colorful Vintage Furniture Displays: Rows of vibrant mid-century chairs in turquoise, coral, mustard, and mint create eye-catching compositions that photograph beautifully in natural morning light.
Retro Signage and Neon Lights: Vintage store signs, neon lights, and hand-painted graphics make excellent statement pieces for photos, particularly when captured during the soft early morning light.
Styled Mid-Century Modern Booths: Vendors often arrange their furniture and décor pieces into room-like displays that create perfect photo opportunities showing how pieces work together.
Rare Collectibles Display: Unique vintage items from typewriters to vinyl records to curiosities arranged creatively in booth displays make fascinating subject matter.
Sunrise Over Vendor Stalls: The market’s opening moments, with golden sunrise light streaming over rows of vendor booths as the market comes to life, offer magical photography opportunities.
Detail Shots: Close-ups of vintage hardware, interesting patterns, retro labels, and small decorative objects often make the most compelling social media content.
Crowd and Atmosphere: Candid shots of shoppers browsing, vendor interactions, and the market’s bustling energy capture the authentic spirit of the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my pet to the market?
Only certified service animals are permitted at the Long Beach Antique Market. Pets create challenges in the crowded environment and can affect vendor merchandise. If you need your service animal, staff will provide appropriate accommodations.
Can I bring a shopping cart or wagon?
Absolutely! Personal shopping carts, wagons, and hand trucks are not only permitted but highly recommended. Given the market’s sprawling twenty-acre layout, bringing your own cart significantly eases the burden of carrying purchases and allows you to shop longer and buy more comfortably.
Are restroom facilities available?
Yes, clean and accessible restroom facilities are located throughout the venue at multiple convenient locations. Given the size of the market and number of visitors, multiple restroom stations ensure you won’t face long waits.
Can I bring a camera or film video?
Personal photography is absolutely permitted and encouraged. Many visitors document their finds and market experiences. However, professional photography or filming for commercial purposes requires advance approval from market management. Contact the venue at (323) 655-5703 if you’re planning professional shoots.
Is there an ATM on-site?
Yes, ATMs are available at the venue for your convenience. However, because the market draws large crowds and ATM lines can develop, it’s recommended to bring cash in advance to avoid wait times and have immediate purchasing power.
What are the restroom facilities like?
Restrooms are modern, regularly cleaned, and well-maintained throughout the venue. Multiple locations ensure easy access regardless of where you are in the market.
Can I reserve vendor space?
Yes, vendor spaces can be reserved in advance. Spaces start at ninety-five dollars and must be booked ahead. Contact the market office at (323) 655-5703 for vendor application information and availability.
What time should I arrive to get the best deals?
Arriving at or before the 5:30 AM opening provides the optimal window for discovering the best pieces. Early risers typically find the most sought-after items still available and experience the least crowded shopping conditions.
Are prices negotiable?
Many vendors are open to friendly negotiation, particularly for higher-priced items or when purchasing multiple pieces from a single dealer. Polite haggling is part of the antique market culture and often results in better pricing.
Is the market wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the market is accessible to visitors with mobility needs, with appropriate pathways and facilities throughout the venue. Public transit serving the market is also wheelchair accessible.
Why the Long Beach Antique Market is a Must-Visit Destination
The Long Beach Antique Market represents far more than simply shopping for old things. It’s a cultural institution that celebrates craftsmanship, design history, sustainability, and community. In an era of mass production and disposable goods, this market stands as a testament to quality, longevity, and the enduring appeal of items created with care and intentionality.
For interior designers, the market serves as a source of inspiration and authentic vintage pieces that can anchor a space or add character to modern interiors. For collectors, it’s a treasure hunt where rare finds and long-sought pieces become attainable. For casual visitors, it’s an entertaining way to spend a Sunday morning surrounded by history, beauty, and possibility.
The vendors many of whom return month after month create relationships with regular customers and develop reputations for quality and knowledge. This repeat participation creates continuity and community within the market, transforming it from a transactional space into a gathering place for people who share a passion for the past and an appreciation for quality.
Final Thoughts
The Long Beach Antique Market is not merely a flea market where vendors sell surplus goods. It is a destination that blends history, style, creativity, and community into a unique cultural experience. With hundreds of vendors and thousands of visitors each month, it ranks among the largest and most respected antique markets in Southern California.
The next time the third Sunday of the month arrives, consider making the journey to Veterans Memorial Stadium. Arrive early, bring comfortable shoes, keep an open mind, and prepare to be amazed by the treasures waiting to be discovered. The market’s magic lies not just in the objects for sale, but in the stories they carry and the connections they create between past and present.
Mark your calendar, set your alarm, and join thousands of others in celebrating the enduring appeal of vintage treasures and the vibrant community that gathers each month at Southern California’s most iconic antique market.
