Bao buns and lemonade: A unique combination of two distinct scents fills the air. Your feet crunch loose gravel and cement as you journey up the stairs to the top of a parking garage. Turning one direction, you see sights of antique wooden clocks, each groove worn down by years of ownership, their time-worn faces telling stories of a past era. Over your other shoulder, you are greeted by friendly faces—Loyola students, proudly rocking Cubs gear and vintage finds. They meander, booth after booth, wading through mounds of vintage clothing, matcha lattes in hand, preparing to conquer the wondrous jungle of the local flea market.
Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, this vibrant market stands as a three-story event, offering a kaleidoscope of unique finds. From vintage clothing stalls exuding a timeless charm to savory street food vendors tempting passersby with their aromatic delights, this market is a colorful tapestry of sights, sounds and flavors. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s an experience where you can truly immerse yourself in LA’s local culture.
For Loyola Alum Owen Roberts ‘22, who frequents the flea market, it’s not only the wears that make the market special—it’s the people.
“The vibe here is laid-back and friendly, and I always meet interesting customers,” he shared. Roberts is a student now at NYU. Whenever he returns home, he always makes sure to visit the market for its unique vibe and eclectic selection. “It’s always cool to see familiar faces from Loyola come by to dig through the crates or chat with me about clothes or music,” he added with a grin.
For many Loyola students, the flea market has become a regular Saturday outing. It’s not just about picking up a vintage jacket or finding a quirky piece of home decor. It’s about the atmosphere: weaving through rows of quirky stalls, laughing with friends while discovering hidden gems and snacking on street food. There’s something both exciting and grounding about being part of a local tradition, especially one that seems to have taken on a life of its own among the Loyola community.
Whether it’s about the aesthetic appeal of retro fashion or just the thrill of the hunt, it’s not uncommon to see groups of Loyola students roaming the aisles, exchanging outfit tips or sharing a bite from one of the many food trucks.
“It’s like our own hidden gem in the city,” said Emmett Ness ‘25, after his first visit to this special place. “The vibes were great, and you never know what you’re going to find.”
Unlike larger commercial markets, this flea market offers a more intimate and authentic experience. The small-town feel, combined with a youthful and creative spirit, makes it a perfect fit for the Loyola crowd. Whether on the hunt for unique pieces, catching up with friends or just soaking in the atmosphere, the market has something for everyone.
Roberts said, “It’s not just a market—it’s a community.”
In a world that often feels rushed and digital, the flea market offers a return to a slower, more personal way of shopping and connecting. It’s a space where the past meets the present, and every visit feels like a new adventure. So next Saturday, grab a friend, grab a matcha latte and join the growing group of Loyola Cubs making the flea market part of their weekly routine.