Amoeba Music

Amoeba Music, the world’s largest independent record store, is a paradise for music lovers and collectors. Now located on Hollywood Boulevard after moving from its original Sunset location, this massive space is packed with new and used vinyl, CDs, cassettes, posters, and even DVDs and Blu-rays. Beyond shopping, Amoeba is known for its free live performances, often featuring big-name and emerging artists.

• Web:

  www.amoeba.com

• Address:

  6200 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles

• Phone:

  +1 323 245 6400

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Thu 11am–8pm, Fri–Sun 11am–9pm

Citadel Outlets

Just 10 miles southeast of Downtown L.A., Citadel Outlets is a top spot for bargain hunters looking to score discounts on major brands. Housed in a striking Assyrian-style building, this open-air outlet mall offers deals on Coach, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Nike, Levi’s, and more, making it a favorite among international tourists. While it doesn’t have the high-end allure of Rodeo Drive or the indie charm of Melrose, Citadel’s mix of luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly brands—plus dining options—makes it a convenient stop for shoppers.

• Web:

  www.citadeloutlets.com

• Address:

  100 Citadel Drive, Commerce, California

• Phone:

  +1 323 888 1724

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–9pm

Downtown

Downtown L.A. is a vibrant mix of bargain shopping, historic markets, and cultural enclaves, making it a great area to explore beyond high-end malls. Santee Alley, in the heart of the Fashion District, is a must-visit for deep discounts on designer-inspired clothing, accessories, and footwear. For a taste of L.A.’s Mexican heritage, head to Olvera Street, a lively pedestrian marketplace near Union Station, where stalls overflow with handmade crafts, leather goods, and authentic street food, all set to the backdrop of strolling musicians. Another can’t-miss stop is the Grand Central Market, a historic food hall open since 1917, where visitors can browse fresh produce, global ingredients, and some of the city’s best eats—from tacos and ramen to gourmet coffee and pastries.

Hollywood Boulevard & Melrose Avenue

Hollywood Boulevard is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic streets, drawing tourists with its mix of history and Hollywood kitsch. Along its sidewalks, you’ll find souvenir shops, T-shirt stands, and poster stores, along with major attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre. For a different vibe, Melrose Avenue, particularly between Fairfax and La Brea, is one of L.A.’s most dynamic shopping streets. It’s a hotspot for trendsetters, packed with eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and edgy designer stores. The area is also home to street art-covered storefronts and stylish cafés, making it a prime spot for people-watching and soaking in L.A.’s effortlessly cool energy.

• Address:

  Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles

La Brea Avenue

Running along Wilshire Boulevard and Hollywood Boulevard, La Brea Avenue is a go-to shopping destination for those looking for a mix of vintage fashion, designer boutiques, home décor, and specialty stores. Known for its artsy vibe, this stretch offers everything from high-end streetwear and curated thrift shops to mid-century antiques and contemporary home goods.

• Address:

  La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles

Ontario Mills

Located about 40 miles east of Downtown L.A., Ontario Mills is one of Southern California’s largest outlet and value retail shopping malls. This indoor shopping destination features over 200 stores, including Nike Factory Store, Coach, Michael Kors, H&M, and Saks OFF 5TH, offering deep discounts on designer and everyday brands. Beyond shopping, the mall has entertainment options like an IMAX theater and indoor go-kart racing, plus a variety of dining choices, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants.

• Web:

  www.simon.com/mall/ontario-mills

• Address:

  1 Mills Circle, Ontario

• Phone:

  +1 909 484 8300

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu 10am–8pm, Fri & Sat 10am–9pm