Vintage Lover's Paradise: Rose Bowl Flea Market

I play tourist a lot in my own state.  There's just too much to see/do/eat here.  It almost makes me mad that California is just so awesome and the reality (sad sad reality) is that I probably won't get to do it all in this lifetime.  Morbid, I know but it is the fuel that gets me out and doing thangs.  I have too many friends wasting away in their own states not getting cultured and what a damn shame!  One of the places I have wanted to visit since I was a kid is the Rose Bowl Flea Market and I finally made it out this past Sunday!  It was so awesome.  I can't believe I waited 25 years to check it out.  All that missed time!  It only happens once a month and that is a blessing in disguise cause I'd be broke if it was weekly.  

   First off, there is nothing in the actual Rose Bowl.  Let's just put that myth to rest right now.  It is around the Rose Bowl and in the parking lots next to it.  I vaguely remember commercials as a kid making it seem like it was inside but no, not it's not.  I asked.  If you are staring at the Rose Bowl, most of the vendors to the immediate left and right are new merchandise.  You know, like the swap meet.  Most of our swap meets are free so just avoid that area.  You paid $8 for the good stuff and it's to the far left of the Rose Bowl - that area has everything and if you want to venture to the far far left, that's where all the vintage clothing and shoes are.  It is a goldmine.  

Here is just a small portion of what caught my eye during the January 12, 2014 show:

"Vintage Prom Suitcase with Everything" 

It was very cute but I have questions since I do not have a daughter... what parent in their right mind would let their daughter have this?  Is it an old school thing cause really...

Alligators & Antlers and animal skins...  This vendor was super busy.  I actually want antlers but no room on my budget (or wall) yet.  Sigh.

I scored these vintage heads for wigs.  The vendor initially said $1 each so I said cool, I'll buy two and she told me to go ahead and take 4 for $1!  My husband ended up giving her $2 cause she was cool like that.  These ladies are going in my prop closet!

Vintage toys always make me ohhh and ahhh.  Was happy to see our friend Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang!

Far far left of the Rose Bowl.  The vintage clothing mecca.

Styling is everything.  It's what catches your eye.

Again, styling for the win.

This is one of my favorite vendors.  We've actually shopped him at Long Beach Antique Market - he is so organized and has a bit of everything.

Forget boots with the fur... these coats are dreamy.

I wanted these hand painted barber shop signs but my husband said no.  They are works of art!

Things to know:

• Regular admission is $8 at 9am - you can show up earlier and pay more but not all vendors are set up yet.  
• Kids 12 and under are free with an adult.  
• Parking is FREE.
• There is food and lots of it.  There's beer too.  

My tips:

• Get there EARLY!
• Do not pass something up - if you want it, get it right then and there.
• Bring CASH!  Some vendors take debit/credit cards but most do not
• Haggle with the seller but don't lowball - don't be insulting!
• Go through all the rows and dig through crates!
• Keep an eye out for "specials"!  - There were different vendors that had $1-5 boxes.  I found a vintage Wonder Woman mask for $1!  
• Wear comfy shoes and sunscreen!  Bring snacks and drinks too, you'll be there for at least 2+ hours! (We were actually there for 4 hours!)
• Ask around.  Most of the time, these vendors sell at the same places and have known each other for years - if you are looking for something they might have it or know someone that does!
• Go there with a budget.  You know how much you want to spend total and you know how much you want to spend on certain things so stick to your budget!  I have heard stories how people start saving for a few months and returning armed with a list.  Be that person.  

I love flea/antique market shopping, see my other vintage finds:
Gifts For The Person That Has Everything at Long Beach Antique Market
California Must-Do: Long Beach Antique Market