When you think of shopping in Los Angeles, Rodeo Drive might be the first place that pops into your head. The star-studded, palm tree-dotted street is teeming with luxury brands and fancy restaurants. However, LA’s shopping culture goes far beyond this iconic hub. Across the city, you’ll find a mix of vibrant destinations, each with its own style and surprises.

Melrose Avenue 

Nestled in the heart of LA is Melrose Avenue, renowned for its mix of street art, indie boutiques and vintage shops. It offers something for everyone, whether you appreciate fashion, art or antiques. There are also coffee shops and restaurants that celebrate Italian, Japanese and American cuisine.

Start your Melrose adventure with a photo at the iconic Pink Paul Smith Wall. This vibrant spot has made a splash online, with over 100,000 Instagram photos shared in front of it in 2016. Then, visit trendy shops like Reformation and Aritzia, and buy vintage clothing at American Rebel and Wasteland. If you’re a music lover, don’t miss A’s American Vintage to buy shirts featuring your favorite musicians.

The Commons at Calabasas

The Commons at Calabasas stands out with its open-air design and lush gardens, creating a refreshing atmosphere for shoppers. The abundance of plants enhances the space’s appearance and contributes to a sense of calm. Being around greenery can help reduce stress, making your shopping trip feel more relaxed as you explore different stores.

The Mediterranean-style mall features well-loved brands like Sephora, Lululemon, Zimmermann, Kate Spade and Williams Sonoma. Restaurants serve seasonal and all-time favorites, like gelato, sushi, coffee and pasta. Indulge in premium California classics at Superba Food + Bread.

The Grove

If you want a high-energy environment, consider The Grove your shopping destination. Board the free vintage Grove Trolley to the Original Farmers Market to buy fresh produce, gourmet cheeses and baked goods. Then, go to the outdoor mall for some retail therapy. About 97% of Gen Zers enjoy shopping at brick-and-mortar retailers, and here, you can explore stores in this upscale open air shopping destination like Michael Kors, Byredo, Brandy Melville, Nordstrom and Sephora. 

Enjoy the choreographed water show and catch a film at the art deco-inspired AMC Theaters. After roaming around, enjoy meals on patios while soaking up the California sunshine. You can grab takeout or dine at a fancy restaurant.

Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Abbot Kinney Boulevard has lots of interesting boutiques, art galleries and wellness shops. It’s the ideal destination if you want a laid-back shopping experience. Explore unique clothing, home goods and jewelry at stalls that line the streets. During First Fridays, the street transforms into a festival with live music and food trucks.

With so many tempting finds, it’s easy to make an impulse purchase. If you’re on the fence about something, try waiting a week or two before deciding. If it’s still on your mind — and fits your budget — it might be the perfect time to buy it.

Koreatown

Koreatown is located west of Downtown LA and is a fun place to shop for all things related to South Korea. At Koreatown Plaza, you can buy plush toys, skin care products and groceries. Drop by one of the charming boutiques for trendy, eye-catching clothing, Aritaum for cosmetics and Sono Felice by Christine for a haircut. If you’re a K-pop fan, head to Music Plaza for your album needs.

The area is active 24/7 and offers endless dining and entertainment opportunities. Some popular restaurants include Gamja Bawi and Dan Sung Sa. An authentic samgyeopsal experience is a must-try.

Your LA Shopping Adventure Awaits

From indie boutiques to local artisan markets, LA offers something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re searching for the latest trends or unique treasures, these five shopping destinations invite you to experience the city’s creative spirit and laid-back energy. Ready to discover a new side of LA? Plan your shopping trip today!