Why visit
Few places capture old Los Angeles like the Original Farmers Market, where you can eat your way through dozens of independent stalls in a historic open-air setting. It is free to enter, family-friendly, and pairs naturally with a visit to the adjacent Grove.
The Original Farmers Market is a sprawling collection of more than 100 stalls and shops, from produce vendors and butchers to international food counters serving everything from gumbo and tacos to crepes and ice cream. Its open-air walkways, vintage signage, and iconic clock tower give it a nostalgic charm that contrasts with the polished shopping center next door. Locals and tourists alike come to assemble a meal from multiple counters and settle in at communal tables.
The market functions as both a casual dining destination and a daily errand stop, with longtime merchants who have operated for generations. You can grab a coffee, browse specialty grocers, pick up gifts, and linger over a meal without a reservation. Its connection to The Grove via a free trolley makes it easy to combine a relaxed bite here with shopping next door.
History
The Original Farmers Market opened in 1934 when a group of farmers began selling produce from trucks on an empty lot at Third and Fairfax, and it grew into a permanent fixture with its now-iconic clock tower. It remains one of Los Angeles's most enduring landmarks, having fed locals and visitors for roughly nine decades.
Insider Tips
- ✦Order from several stalls to build a tasting-style meal.
- ✦Take the free trolley to The Grove if you want to shop after eating.
- ✦Bring cash, as some long-running vendors prefer it.
Photo Tips
- 📸Frame the historic clock tower against the sky.
- 📸Capture the vintage neon and hand-painted stall signs.
- 📸Shoot the bustling counters at lunchtime for lively candid shots.
Before You Go
- ✓Confirm hours online, since individual stalls open and close at different times.
- ✓Common mistake: confusing the historic Original Farmers Market with the modern Grove mall next door, they are connected but distinct.
- ✓Check parking and validation details before arriving on a weekend.
Visiting with family
It is very family-friendly, with varied food options for picky eaters and a free trolley to The Grove that kids enjoy riding.
Where to Eat Nearby
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The Original Farmers Market FAQ
How old is the Original Farmers Market?
It dates to 1934, making it one of the oldest continuously operating markets in Los Angeles.
Is it the same as The Grove?
No, but they are adjacent and connected by a free trolley; the Farmers Market is the historic open-air food market, while The Grove is the modern shopping center.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free and you only pay for food and goods.
Nearby Neighborhoods
WestsideBeverly Hills
Beverly Hills is the byword for upscale LA, famous for Rodeo Drive's designer boutiques, manicured streets, and celebrity homes. It offers polished luxury shopping, fine dining, and elegant gardens in a compact, walkable core. Even for window-shoppers, the glamour and people-watching are part of the appeal.
CentralLos Feliz
Los Feliz is a leafy, hilly neighborhood on the eastern edge of the Hollywood Hills, beloved for its mix of historic architecture, indie shops, and gateway access to Griffith Park. It blends bohemian creativity with old-Hollywood elegance.
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The Original Farmers Market on the map
See The Original Farmers Market and what's nearby in hollywood.
Map pins are approximate and for visitor planning only — they may not mark the exact entrance or parking. Please check official directions before visiting.
Places shown on this map (9)
- The Original Farmers Market — Food
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- Los Feliz — Neighborhood