Los Angeles may be known for its high-end shopping districts and luxury brands, but the city is also home to an array of hidden gems—independent boutiques, quirky thrift stores, and specialty shops that offer a truly unique shopping experience. These spots not only provide exceptional finds but also support local businesses, artisans, and even charitable causes.
If you're ready to break away from the usual shopping malls and uncover something special, this guide will introduce you to some of LA’s most distinctive shopping destinations. From an iconic bookstore to a thrift shop with a mission, here are the best hidden gems in the City of Angels.
1. The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is California’s largest new and used bookstore, spanning 20,000 square feet in downtown LA. Its whimsical design features book tunnels, hidden nooks, and a vast selection of rare and discounted books.
Beyond books, it houses vinyl records, graphic novels, and an art gallery. The second floor includes the $1 book room, offering budget-friendly reads. This literary haven is a must-visit for book lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
Location: 453 S Spring St, Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Phone: 213-488-0599
2. Out of the Closet
Out of the Closet is a thrift store with a mission—96% of its proceeds support the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Shoppers can find affordable, high-quality clothing, accessories, and home goods while contributing to a meaningful cause.
The store also offers free HIV testing and pharmaceutical services. With trendy and vintage finds, it’s a great place to shop sustainably. Every purchase helps fund vital healthcare services across the country.
Location: 2425 N San Fernando Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90065
Phone: 323-223-0838
3. Yolk
Located in Silver Lake, Yolk is a colorful boutique featuring artisan home decor, unique gifts, and Scandinavian-inspired design pieces. The shop emphasizes sustainable and independent brands, offering everything from handmade ceramics to children’s fashion.
Its carefully curated selection brings a global touch to LA’s design scene. Locals love its bright, welcoming atmosphere and quality craftsmanship. It’s a great spot for thoughtful gifts and stylish home goods.
Location: 3910 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Phone: 323-426-9391
4. Pepe’s Thrift Shop
Pepe’s Thrift Shop is a go-to destination for mid-century modern furniture and unique home decor. Shoppers can find vintage dressers, credenzas, tulip chairs, and statement lighting at reasonable prices.
The store also carries antique mirrors, western-inspired decor, and custom-made pieces. Every item is labeled with dimensions and pricing, making shopping easy. Whether redecorating or hunting for a statement piece, Pepe’s has something special.
Location: 4577 S Centinela Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90066
Phone: 310-306-5354
5. Crush & Touch Art Supply
This Highland Park art shop is a creative haven for artists, offering high-quality supplies and gifts. It features materials for all skill levels, from beginner essentials to professional-grade tools.
Crush & Touch also showcases art books, handmade gifts, and works by local artists. You can find unique greeting cards, specialty inks, and sketchbooks. It’s an inspiring stop for both seasoned artists and casual creatives.
Location: 5030 1/2 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042
6. Berda Paradise Thrift Store
Berda Paradise Thrift Store offers an eclectic mix of clothing, books, accessories, and musical instruments. Prices are budget-friendly, with a special $1 rack for extra savings.
Proceeds from sales support the Hollywood Sunset Free Clinic, providing free healthcare to the local community. The store’s curated selection makes it easy to find stylish and unique items. It’s a hidden gem for thrift lovers looking to shop with purpose.
Location: 3506 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Phone: 323-661-8246
7. Soap Plant/Wacko
Soap Plant/Wacko is a quirky Los Feliz shop specializing in pop culture gifts, oddities, and art books. The store is famous for its offbeat inventory, including collectibles, home decor, and novelty items.
Its upstairs gallery, La Luz de Jesus, hosts contemporary art exhibitions. The shop attracts artists, collectors, and those with an eye for the unusual. It’s the perfect spot to find eccentric gifts and creative inspiration.
Location: 4633 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Phone: 323-663-0122
Make a Day of It: Explore LA’s Unique Shops
Los Angeles’ shopping scene is anything but ordinary. Make a day of it by planning a self-guided shopping tour, stopping for coffee at one of the city’s famous cafés, and supporting the passionate artists, collectors, and curators who make the city’s small business scene so special. You never know what you’ll find—but that’s the fun of it.
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