Mohib Q.
Yelp
When you need more George Carlin "stuff," are tired of eBay and Craigslist, and don't feel like going all the way to the Rose Bowl for their flea market, come one and come all to the Long Beach flea market! You can find all kinds of oddities from your parents and grandparent's generation as this place is packed and perfect for those looking for vintage or antique goods.
I came here looking for wood crates after being disgusted from online sales and stores charging an egregious amount for what isn't really worth much to most. I learned about the types of vintage crates-grape, orange, wine, milk bottles, soda bottles, packaging, etc. I found vendors selling them at a large range of prices pending on their condition. While most of the ones in poor condition could not be rehabilitated with ease, I found that most people would come early just for wood crates. So that being noted, take these tips to mind:
1. Come early if you know what you want. The early birds really go for iron tables and crates as soon as they can.
2. This one is big: prices aren't as reasonable as they may seem. You may, honestly, find a better deal elsewhere. So haggle and do your research. Time is money, but your quest for savings may have brought you here. I saw tables for $400-500 that may have cost $60 to build.
3. Use the Yelp check-in coupon or sign up for their mailing list. You get 50 cents off admission.
4. Be ready to walk away if it isn't good enough of a deal. These vendors know the supply and feed on your thirst.
5. Many of the Rose Bowl flea market vendors end up here, but only a certain portion of them. If you hate crowds, try this place first.
6. Parking is free at the structure nearby.
7. Wear comfy shoes and be prepared to walk around in the heat.
8. Many vendors have storefronts elsewhere, so ask them if they do and if they have other items you may be looking for. Many of them will give their business info for follow-up.
9. Really inspect what you get. There are a lot of odd items that may just be duds. I saw a crate that was termite-ridden only after I inspected it. Tools are also an area of caution.
10. Bring a cloth or gloves if you plan to handle rusted goods, and hand sanitizer.
This isn't your local community college swap meet, although it's held at the stadium at Long Beach City College. So you'll find unique vendors here in comparison to local colleges in the area. It also won't be as much of a rip-off as the Melrose Trading Post, and you'll be able to get in and out of here with ease. While I didn't get a crate, I had fun inspecting the oddities I may one day accent my garage with or otherwise. It's a fun experience for most, and even better for those who have lived elsewhere and want a true taste of the real Southern California.