Crowds of earnest shoppers, the hot sun beating down, and row after row after row of tiny tarped stalls holding anything from antiques to local bites. You know it, you love it, and it's right here in Pasadena—The Rose Bowl Flea Market. But, with the right road-map, outfit, and decisive shopping list, a trip to the Rose Bowl Flea Market can go from overwhelming to awesome in minutes flat. We scoured the parking lot jammed with shops for our favorite stalls, so whether you're looking for antique vases, vintage T-shirts, a pair of Dior sunnies from the ‘60s, or supplies for unexpected jewelry, consider yourself set. Think we missed one of your favorite vendors? Let us know who tops your list at the Rose Bowl in the comments. So, go get 'em, shoppers, and remember, sunblock is your friend!
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Vlad Ravkin, Vintage Lot, the far left corner against the gate.
Look for the punk studded boots, luxe furs, and loud Russian vendor (Vlad himself) in the corner of the flea market for some of the most unique vintage finds. The vintage Gucci overnight bags particularly caught our eye.
Look for the punk studded boots, luxe furs, and loud Russian vendor (Vlad himself) in the corner of the flea market for some of the most unique vintage finds. The vintage Gucci overnight bags particularly caught our eye.
Brian Ferrilstone Collectibles, Row H, Stall 3
If you're on the hunt for vintage glassware, mixing bowls, or half aprons, this place has got your kitchen needs covered. Bright and fun, it's a great spot to grab unexpected housewarming gifts or that perfect piece to give your kitchenette some personality. The vintage aprons are perfect for actual wear and tear, with most of them made from durable cotton.
If you're on the hunt for vintage glassware, mixing bowls, or half aprons, this place has got your kitchen needs covered. Bright and fun, it's a great spot to grab unexpected housewarming gifts or that perfect piece to give your kitchenette some personality. The vintage aprons are perfect for actual wear and tear, with most of them made from durable cotton.
Antique Plus, Front of Row L
Though this is technically a household fixtures vendor, the antique keys and pieces of chandelier are wonderful when tossed on a chain and wore on a necklace.
Though this is technically a household fixtures vendor, the antique keys and pieces of chandelier are wonderful when tossed on a chain and wore on a necklace.
Big Daddy's Antiques, Row GG, Stall 13
If worn metal, polished wood, and antique leather cases are more your speed, Big Daddy's has got you covered. All of the pieces are ready for the home—but are still cheaper than your average furniture boutique—no elbow grease required, but the well-edited selection come the price tag to match. But if you're a fan of perfectly worn antiques that somehow stay edgy and avoid “Shabby Chic” territory, this place is at least worth some time window-shopping.
If worn metal, polished wood, and antique leather cases are more your speed, Big Daddy's has got you covered. All of the pieces are ready for the home—but are still cheaper than your average furniture boutique—no elbow grease required, but the well-edited selection come the price tag to match. But if you're a fan of perfectly worn antiques that somehow stay edgy and avoid “Shabby Chic” territory, this place is at least worth some time window-shopping.
Spectacle Shoppe Row P, Stall 7
Careful, you will buy something if you linger too long. Need some vintage Dior shades, Gucci sunglasses? Even if you don't, you'll find a pair that's too unique not to nab. These beautiful glasses are in pristine condition, and come with the price tag to match, but it's worth it for the quality of these vintage specs. Even better, the shop owner will help you with repairs if you glasses need a tweak and can even change the lenses for you too.
Careful, you will buy something if you linger too long. Need some vintage Dior shades, Gucci sunglasses? Even if you don't, you'll find a pair that's too unique not to nab. These beautiful glasses are in pristine condition, and come with the price tag to match, but it's worth it for the quality of these vintage specs. Even better, the shop owner will help you with repairs if you glasses need a tweak and can even change the lenses for you too.
Unnamed Vendor, Row GG, Stall 9
The owner didn't have a store name, but who needs a name when your shop is busting with personality? For vintage saltshakers, birthday cards, party napkins, and kitschy knick-knacks of any shape and size, this spot has it all.
The owner didn't have a store name, but who needs a name when your shop is busting with personality? For vintage saltshakers, birthday cards, party napkins, and kitschy knick-knacks of any shape and size, this spot has it all.
The Jerky Shack, Row GG
A trip to the flea market wouldn't be complete without some of this delicious jerky. Spicy, sweet, smoky, traditional, whatever your flavor, they've got it (our fave is the Teriyaki).
A trip to the flea market wouldn't be complete without some of this delicious jerky. Spicy, sweet, smoky, traditional, whatever your flavor, they've got it (our fave is the Teriyaki).