When you think of antiques, do you think of Los Angeles? Well, you should. Los Angeles and its surrounding towns are not all about high fashion and high heels, Los Angeles is also known for two internationally recognized antique shows, two major monthly flea markets, and many small flea markets. And because of the area’s Spanish heritage, this is a particularly good area to find everything from the Continental pieces to mid-century Moderne to shabby chic. Los Angeles has about 400 antique stores in all, sprinkled through Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, La Cienega Boulevard, south Santa Boulevard, and Melrose avenue. Nearby, Pasadena has over 60 stores, and Santa Monica more than 40.

Los Angeles and its surrounding towns also have plenty of shows worth attending. Highlights include the Los Angeles Annual Antiques Show, the Pasadena Annual Antiques Show, the Santa Monica Annual Antiques Show, and the Dorothy Emerson Antiques Show. The city’s two largest monthly flea markets are Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Flea Market, and the Santa Monica Antiques & Flea Market. And when you’re ready for a break from antiquing – the attractions in Los Angeles are many. The city is known culturally for its fine symphony, theater, dance and other offerings, as well as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the J. Paul Getty Museum.