Top Rated Shopping in Los Angeles

It is no small feat for an independent bookstore to stay in business during the times when even giant chains have caved in. It is a downright marvel when a brand-new bookstore emerges and proceeds to forge upstream against the general trend of brick-and-mortar decline. One such miracle occurred in the midst of the Downtown Arts District in 2011 when The Last Bookstore opened its doors, dazzling eager bibliophiles and inquisitive passers-by with its spacious, beautifully laid-out interior packed full of new and used editions of every genre. With its affordable prices, friendly staff and a massive, continuously changing collection, the bookstore quickly claimed for itself a permanent place among the most popular destination of Downtown LA.

Renowned for its eclectic mix of fashion, accessories, and unique finds, The Santee Alley offers a diverse shopping experience. Visitors can explore a maze of narrow alleyways lined with colorful stalls and small shops, showcasing an array of trendy clothing, footwear, accessories, and beauty products. This bustling marketplace caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, making it a popular destination for fashion enthusiasts, especially for those on a budget. The lively atmosphere, vibrant street culture, and the opportunity to discover hidden gems make The Santee Alley a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the diverse shopping scene of downtown LA.

The famed town of Beverly Hills is arguably synonymous with Los Angeles. From opulent mansions to the glamour associated with Hollywood, Beverly Hills embodies the essence of LA's fanciful lifestyle. There is a lot to enjoy here, enough to justify a day visit, if not more. You may start by exploring the heart of Beverly Hills, the fabulous Rodeo Drive and the adjacent streets, all lined with some of the best world-class boutiques from coast to coast. Visit a few art galleries, such as the Gagosian and Christie's Los Angeles, located in the same area. Grab a bite to eat at one of the more casual cafes and bakeries, or splurge at the legendary Spago. Dozens of top-notch spas are at your fingertips. A mid-afternoon stroll through the lush Beverly Hills Park provides a nice change of pace and a natural respite between your urban explorations. West Melrose and Robertson shopping districts await insatiable shoppers looking to explore further.

Rodeo Drive, nestled in the heart of Beverly Hills, California, is an iconic and world-renowned shopping destination that epitomizes luxury and glamour. This palm-lined street is synonymous with high-end fashion, exquisite boutiques, and opulent designer stores. Renowned fashion houses, such as Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, line the sidewalks, showcasing the latest trends and timeless elegance. While shopping is the main attraction, Rodeo Drive also offers opportunities for celebrity spotting and enjoying fine dining at upscale restaurants. Be warned, however, that some of the stores are so exclusive, that shopping is by appointment only.

With harder-to-find upscale boutiques as well as the usual mall fare, the Beverly Center is one of the more popular shopping destinations in the city of Los Angeles. The structure itself is certainly unique for a mall, with two floors of shops and a third of food court and cinemas atop five-levels of parking, filling an entire city block. Among the more unique stores found here are Belgravia Collection, Betsey Johnson, Cabochon Fine Jewelry, Alexio, Club Monaco, Politix, Vertex, The Icing and Shauna Stein.

Located in the downtown Long Beach Harbor, Shoreline Village shopping center features some great shops and restaurants. From here you can also take boat tours of the Long Beach and Los Angeles harbors. Restaurants include The Yard House, Tequila Jack's, Tugboat Pete's and Parkers' Lighthouse. At sunset, an excursion along the Long Beach Harbor Marina is perfect and at night, both The Yard House and Tequila Jack's are hopping bars that serve several beers and tequilas.