There’s something magical about stumbling upon a hidden gem where history meets creativity, and treasures from the past wait to be rediscovered. Nestled in the heart of Old Town Tustin, Whimzy Market has become a beloved destination for vintage enthusiasts, antique collectors, and anyone seeking unique finds that tell a story. Located at 474 El Camino Real, this charming venue hosts “The Tustin Flea” a monthly vintage market that draws treasure hunters from across Southern California. Explore creative stalls at the Anaheim Marketplace or hunt for deals at the Napa Vallejo Flea Market.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector searching for that perfect vintage piece, a first-time visitor curious about the local flea market scene, or simply someone who appreciates the charm of Old Town Tustin, Whimzy offers an experience that’s both nostalgic and exciting. Let me take you through everything you need to know about this wonderful market, from when to visit to what treasures await you.
What Makes Whimzy Market Special?
Whimzy Market isn’t just another flea market it’s a carefully curated celebration of vintage culture and community spirit. The market is hosted by Whimzy, a beloved gift shop and art studio that has been a fixture in Old Town Tustin for years. The shop itself specializes in vintage home decor, collectibles, and handmade gifts, setting the tone for the quality and character you’ll find at the monthly market.
The flea market features diverse offerings including clothing both vintage and contemporary, collectible toys, housewares, plants, jewelry, fossils, and watches essentially creating an eclectic treasure trove where unexpected discoveries are part of the fun. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between serious antiquing and casual browsing, making it accessible whether you’re a dedicated collector or simply enjoy the hunt.
What truly sets this market apart is its emphasis on vintage and antique items rather than mass-produced goods. To browse more markets, check out the California Flea Markets. The market showcases vintage items from all over California, featuring anything old and cool, which means you’ll find authentic pieces with real history and character. It’s this commitment to quality vintage goods that keeps collectors returning month after month.
Essential Market Information
Address and Contact
Whimzy Market
474 El Camino Real
Tustin, CA 92780
Phone: (714) 573-1025
Website: vintagewhimzy.com
Email: VintageWhimzy22@gmail.com
The Tustin Flea Schedule
The Tustin Flea is held on the 4th Sunday of every month from 7 AM to 2 PM. This consistent schedule makes it easy to plan your visits in advance. Here’s what you need to know:
| Day | Market Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4th Sunday of Each Month | 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM | The main vintage flea market event |
Upcoming 2025 Market Dates:
- January 26th
- February 23rd
- March 23rd
- April 27th
- May 25th
- June 22nd
- July 27th
- August 24th
- September 28th
- October 26th
- November 23rd
- December 28th
Note: Occasionally special events may occur on different dates. Always check the official website or call ahead to confirm.
Whimzy Shop Hours
The Whimzy shop itself operates on a different schedule than the flea market:
| Day | Shop Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed (except during flea market) |
The shop is also open by appointment and during the flea market on the 4th Sunday. It’s best to call ahead at (714) 573-1025 to ensure they’re open or to schedule a special shopping time.
Getting There: Parking and Transportation
One of the best aspects of visiting Whimzy Market is how accessible it is. The location in Old Town Tustin provides multiple transportation options:
Parking
Free parking is available in the lot where the market is held, and there’s additional street parking throughout Old Town Tustin. Even on busy market days, visitors report that parking is relatively easy to find. The free parking removes one of the common stresses of attending markets and makes it simple to load up any treasures you find.
Public Transportation
Several OCTA (Orange County Transportation Authority) bus routes serve the area with stops near El Camino Real. This makes the market accessible for those who prefer not to drive or are visiting from other parts of Orange County.
Bike-Friendly
For cyclists, Old Town Tustin is a pleasant ride, and bike racks are available in the area. The flat terrain and charming neighborhood streets make cycling a popular option for locals.
Accessibility
The market venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the vintage shopping experience.
What You’ll Find: Treasures Awaiting Discovery
The beauty of The Tustin Flea lies in its variety and unpredictability. Each month brings different vendors and ever-changing inventory, which means there’s always something new to discover. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Categories of Items
Vintage Clothing and Accessories From retro dresses and classic denim to vintage band tees and antique jewelry, fashion lovers will find pieces spanning multiple decades. Whether you’re building a vintage wardrobe or looking for unique accessories, the clothing selection offers both wearable fashion and collectible pieces.
Collectibles and Toys Nostalgia runs deep in the toy section, where you might find everything from vintage action figures and dolls to classic board games and tin toys. Collectors of specific brands or eras often discover unexpected gems.
Home Decor and Housewares Vintage glassware, mid-century modern furniture pieces, antique picture frames, retro kitchen items, and decorative objects fill the stalls. These pieces can transform a house into a home with character and history.
Jewelry and Watches From costume jewelry to fine antique pieces, the market offers a range of adornments. Vintage watch collectors particularly appreciate the selection, which often includes timepieces from different eras and makers.
Plants and Garden Items Vendors also bring succulents, vintage planters, garden tools, and outdoor decor, appealing to green thumbs looking to add character to their gardens.
Fossils and Natural Curiosities For those interested in natural history, some vendors specialize in fossils, minerals, and other geological specimens.
Books, Records, and Ephemera Paper lovers can browse vintage books, vinyl records, old photographs, postcards, and other paper collectibles that offer windows into the past.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
To make the most of your Whimzy Market experience, keep these insider tips in mind:
Arrive Early for Best Selection
The market opens at 7:00 AM, and serious collectors know that early birds get the best finds. The first hour or two sees the most active hunting, with vendors still unpacking and prime pieces being claimed. If you’re after specific collectibles or the best vintage clothing, plan to arrive by 7:30 or 8:00 AM.
Bring Cash
While many vendors now accept cards or mobile payments, cash is still king at flea markets. Many smaller vendors prefer cash, and you’ll often have better luck negotiating prices when paying with bills. Having smaller denominations ($1, $5, $10, and $20 bills) makes transactions smoother and shows you’re a serious buyer.
Dress Comfortably
The market is outdoors in a parking lot setting, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. California mornings can be cool even in summer, so layers are a smart choice. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is essential for sunnier months.
Bring Reusable Bags
Come prepared with sturdy reusable shopping bags or a rolling cart. This is not only environmentally friendly but also practical for carrying your finds. Some items may be fragile, so having proper bags helps protect your purchases.
Check Before You Visit
While the market follows a regular 4th Sunday schedule, it’s wise to check the official website or call ahead to confirm, especially around holidays when dates might shift.
Bring Measurements
If you’re shopping for furniture or specific items that need to fit in particular spaces, bring measurements with you. There’s nothing worse than finding the perfect piece only to discover it won’t fit through your door or in your designated spot.
Be Prepared to Negotiate
Polite negotiation is part of flea market culture. Vendors often expect some back-and-forth on pricing, especially if you’re buying multiple items. Be respectful, friendly, and reasonable in your offers.
Exploring Old Town Tustin
One of the delights of visiting Whimzy Market is the opportunity to explore Old Town Tustin before or after browsing the flea market. The small-town feel of Old Town Tustin adds to the unique shopping experience, with other shops in the area open on flea market Sunday.
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
The historic downtown district features charming boutiques, antique shops, cafes, and restaurants housed in vintage buildings. It’s worth arriving early for the market, then spending the rest of your day exploring the neighborhood.
The Little Tree Church
A notable landmark in Jamestown Village (where Whimzy is located) is the Little Tree Church, a replica of Hopewell Church from Tennessee, built around a vintage oak tree. It’s a picturesque spot and speaks to the area’s commitment to preserving history and charm.
Assistance League Thrift Store
Located across the street from Whimzy, this thrift store is another treasure hunting opportunity if you want to extend your vintage shopping adventure.
Vendor Information
For Shoppers
The market typically hosts numerous vendors, each bringing their own specialty and style. The vendor mix changes somewhat from month to month, but regulars appreciate the consistent quality and authenticity of the items offered. The market attracts vendors from throughout California who specialize in vintage and antique goods.
For Potential Vendors
If you’re a vintage dealer, antique collector, or artisan interested in selling at The Tustin Flea, the market welcomes quality vendors. Contact Whimzy directly at (714) 573-1025 or via their website at vintagewhimzy.com to inquire about vendor opportunities, fees, and application processes. The market looks for vendors who offer authentic vintage items, antiques, and quality collectibles that align with the market’s character.
Nearby Accommodations
If you’re traveling from outside the area to attend the market, several hotels are conveniently located near Old Town Tustin:
| Hotel | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Hilton Garden Inn Tustin Orange County | 2 miles | Modern amenities, comfortable rooms, close to market |
| Courtyard by Marriott Tustin Orange County | 2 miles | Great for business and leisure, easy freeway access |
| Ayres Hotel Orange | 3 miles | Boutique-style accommodations with upscale touches |
The History and Community Spirit
Whimzy and The Tustin Flea have been integral parts of Old Town Tustin’s revival and continued charm. The market was created to draw visitors to Old Town Tustin and showcase the area’s historic character while supporting local vintage dealers and collectors. Over the years, it has succeeded in creating a monthly gathering that feels like a community tradition.
The market reflects the broader values of Tustin a respect for history, a commitment to sustainability through reuse and repurposing, and a celebration of individuality and creativity. Rather than promoting fast fashion and mass-produced goods, The Tustin Flea champions items with stories, craftsmanship, and character.
Instagram-Worthy Moments
For those who love to document their adventures, The Tustin Flea offers plenty of photo opportunities:
- Vintage Displays: The artfully arranged vendor stalls make excellent backdrops, particularly those featuring colorful vintage clothing or sparkling jewelry.
- Old Town Architecture: The historic buildings of Old Town Tustin provide charming backgrounds for photos.
- Your Finds: Show off your treasures with flat-lay photos of your purchases vintage finds always photograph beautifully.
- The Little Tree Church: This unique structure is a local landmark perfect for a quick photo.
Don’t forget to tag your photos with #TheTustinFlea and #WhimzyMarket to share your finds with the community and help others discover this gem.
Other Southern California Markets to Explore
If you love The Tustin Flea, you might also enjoy these other Southern California vintage and flea markets:
- Rose Bowl Flea Market (Pasadena) – Second Sunday of each month
- Melrose Trading Post (Los Angeles) – Every Sunday
- Orange Circle Antique Mall (Orange) – Open daily
- Long Beach Antique Market (Long Beach) – Third Sunday of each month
- Golden West College Swap Meet (Huntington Beach) – Weekends
Special Events and Seasonal Markets
While The Tustin Flea follows its regular 4th Sunday schedule, Whimzy occasionally hosts special events. In the past, they’ve organized events like “Glitterfest,” though some special events have been discontinued. Check their website and social media for announcements about any special seasonal markets or themed events.
FAQs
Is there an admission fee for The Tustin Flea?
No, admission to The Tustin Flea at Whimzy Market is completely free. You can browse at your leisure without any entrance fee.
What time should I arrive?
The market runs from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Arriving between 7:00 and 8:00 AM gives you the best selection. If you prefer a more relaxed experience with smaller crowds, 10:00 AM to noon is ideal.
Are pets allowed?
Typically, well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome, but it’s recommended to verify the current pet policy by calling (714) 573-1025 before bringing your furry friend.
Is the market rain or shine?
As an outdoor market, severe weather can affect operations. It’s best to check the website or call ahead if weather looks questionable.
Can I sell my own vintage items?
Yes! The market is always looking for quality vendors. Contact Whimzy at (714) 573-1025 or through their website to inquire about vendor opportunities.
What payment methods do vendors accept?
It varies by vendor. Most accept cash, and many now take cards or mobile payments, but cash is recommended for the best experience and negotiating flexibility.
Is the market family-friendly?
Absolutely! The market welcomes families, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it enjoyable for all ages. Kids often love searching for vintage toys and unusual finds.
Where else can I shop for vintage in the area?
Old Town Tustin has several other antique and vintage shops, including Country Roads Antiques and other boutiques within walking distance of the market.
Final Thoughts
The Tustin Flea at Whimzy Market represents the best of Southern California’s vintage market scene authentic items, passionate vendors, reasonable prices, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment with unique mid-century pieces, building a vintage wardrobe, hunting for specific collectibles, or simply enjoying a Sunday morning treasure hunt, this market delivers an experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
The combination of the monthly market and the charming Old Town Tustin setting creates more than just a shopping trip it’s a morning adventure that connects you with history, creativity, and community. The thrill of the hunt, the joy of discovery, and the satisfaction of finding something truly special keep people returning month after month.
Mark your calendar for the 4th Sunday, set your alarm early, grab some cash, and head to 474 El Camino Real in Tustin. Whether you leave with armfuls of treasures or just memories of a lovely morning spent browsing, The Tustin Flea at Whimzy Market is an experience that captures the spirit of vintage Southern California.
