The Melrose Trading Post

Looking for a fun and COVID-19 safe Sunday afternoon activity in the Los Angeles area? The Melrose Trading Post may be for you! I was a little skeptical when I first heard about the famous Melrose Trading Post in LA. I thought that the clothes were going to be overpriced and not my vibe. As soon as I arrived, I was thrilled by what I saw and soon learned about the size of the market and the rich history behind it. Not only were there tons of cute second-hand and hand-made clothing, but there were also trinkets, house decorations, and furniture.

The Melrose Trading Post’s history is important in LA. It is a part of a program called Greenway Arts Alliance, a non-profit community-based organization with the goal of uniting the community through art. The weekly event also features musicians, bands, dancers, and speakers which helps fund Fairfax High School’s arts and leadership programs. Since the Post’s opening in 1997, over 8 million dollars in grants have been awarded to the high school. More information about the Greenway Arts Alliance can be found here.

Along with supporting Fairfax High School and the greater LA area, buying from the Post helps support small businesses and entrepreneurs from the area! My experience at Melrose Trading Post was super fun. I was so ecstatic and interested in the uniqueness of every booth. From handcrafted wooden pieces perfect for a bedroom or living room to thousands of pairs of jeans, you can find almost anything you need at the Post.

One thing I would like to add is that it is important to acknowledge that COVID-19 is still prominent in the LA area, so if this activity doesn't feel safe, wait until you are vaccinated or feel comfortable being around more people. I would recommend going in the mornings right when they open because the market tends to be less crowded and social distancing is easier. Don’t forget to wear a mask and if you feel sick, there will always be another Sunday you can go when you are feeling your best!

Here are my tips for your trip to the Melrose Trading Post:

1. Wear COMFORTABLE SHOES! This is a must for visiting this area, Parking is hard to find, so I recommend parking in the neighborhood south of the trading post (parallel parking semi-required). But seriously, comfortable footwear will make or break your day.

2. Bring a reusable bag or tote! The many different vendors at the trading post will give you plastic bags for the items you purchase, but having your own bag is the best way to be sustainable.

3. Lastly, make sure you have all of the necessities to stay like your masks, hand sanitizer, and your healthy self.