The Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles is unlike any you’ve probably experienced. You’re not going to find many temporary tents or local farmers selling their produce.
Much like many things in the City of Angels, they put their unique twist on it and created a special place that’s the perfect spot to grab a quick bite to eat.
So what’s so special about the Original Farmers Market?
Let’s venture over to the intersection of 3rd and Fairfax to find out!
About the Original Farmers Market
The land looked quite different in 1880 when Arthur Fremont Gilmore purchased the land. The intended purpose was to use the land as a dairy farm. However, he was surprised when drilling for water on his land. Instead of finding water, he discovered oil. Arthur scrapped the idea of starting a dairy farm and formed the Gilmore Oil Company instead.
During the mid-1930s, he charged local farmers 50 cents per day to park on his land and sell their produce. The farmers had considerable success, and the number of farmers rapidly grew. Gilmore realized he was onto something and installed permanent stalls for merchants to use, and shops and restaurants began sprouting up at the market.
In 1952, Arthur sold some of his land to the television production company CBS. They created a recording studio, and the market became the go-to spot for celebrities recording shows at the nearby production facilities. Stars from series such as The Carol Burnett Show, Three’s Company, and The Red Skelton Show were frequently seen at the market grabbing a bite to eat.
During the 1960s, the market became LA’s most popular tourist attraction. Having earned a reputation, it even became a spot for global celebrities like President Eisenhower, Marilyn Monroe, and The Beatles to stop in for a visit.
The market experienced a tremendous amount of growth and change in infrastructure during the 1980s. By the decade’s end, the market had grown to nearly 120 different shops, restaurants, and produce stands. The list of shops is constantly changing at the market to this day, but there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Where Is the Original Farmers Market?
While 6333 West 3rd Street is the official address of Original Farmers Market, many say, “Meet you at 3rd and Fairfax.” The market sits outside West Hollywood and has everything you’d expect from Southern California.
The entire area surrounding the market has the glitz and glamor feel of authentic Hollywood. There’s no shortage of palm trees, sunshine, and celebrity sightings in this part of the Golden State.
Popular attractions near the Original Farmers Market include Pan Pacific Park, the Holocaust Museum, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The market is ideal for anyone looking to grab a quick bite to eat while seeing the area. Whether you’re visiting Beverly Hills, Burbank, Los Angeles, or Malibu, the Original Farmers Market is one spot you can’t miss!
Pro Tip: Skip these Most Overrated California Tourist Attractions and go to the Original Farmers Market instead.
Is the Original Farmers Market Family Friendly?
Many spots in and around Los Angeles are great for families, including the Original Farmers Market. With more than 40 different restaurants, eateries, and coffee shops, there’s something for even the pickiest of eaters. This allows everyone to get something they like to eat and then enjoy it at a table in the courtyard.
After everyone has finished their meal, a trip to one of the candy stores, Local Ice, or Bennett’s Ice Cream for dessert. Bennett’s has been a staple at the market since 1963 and has a reputation for having excellent ice cream.
While there are plenty of spots to eat, the market offers more than just opportunities to eat for families. There are plenty of shops to explore, including “Light My Fire,” which has a massive global collection of hot sauces. Even if you don’t like spicy food, the place is quite impressive.
However, families can’t miss stopping at Sticker Planet. This is a family-owned establishment that sells thousands of stickers. You can find sticks from superheroes to Harry Potter. Whether your kids have a school project or want to start a collection, plan to spend some time here.
Are the Original Farmers Market and the Grand Central Market the Same?
The Original Farmers Market and the Grand Central Market are not the same. They’re separated by approximately 10 miles. While both are popular among locals and tourists, Grand Central Market has been around much longer than Original Farmers Market.
Grand Central Market started in 1917 as the “Wonder Market.” It was a massive hit with the public as it was in the epicenter of the rapidly growing downtown of Los Angeles.
Today, the market has 40 stalls and features many establishments with a California look and feel. The restaurants are as diverse as the individuals who make up the many immigrant communities. You can experience a taste of just about anything at Grand Central Market.
Best Places to Eat at the Original Farmers Market
Deciding where to eat at the Original Farmers Market can be challenging. With so many options, it’s an almost impossible decision for some visitors. If you’re struggling to decide, consider one of these options.
Bob’s Coffee and Doughnuts
Bob’s Coffee and Doughnuts sits in stall 450 of the Original Farmers Market and has served coffee and doughnuts since 1970. They make their donuts fresh daily and offer delicious coffees and tea. Their dinosaur and kitty specialty cookies are a hit with kids, and just about everyone loves Bob’s famous cinnamon rolls.
Fritzi Coop
The Fritzi Coop is the spot in LA if you want Nashville Hot Chicken. They serve their delicious sandwiches on a brioche bun and with curly fries and tater tots. In addition, they have a variety of dipping sauces that are out of this world. If you have an affinity for spicy food or want to test your tastebuds, the Fritzi Coop in stall 742 is the place to do it.
Pro Tip: Join the debate of Nashville Hot vs. Buffalo: Which Chicken Reigns Supreme.
Bennett’s Ice Cream
If you need to cool down those tastebuds or are looking for the perfect way to end your meal, Bennett’s Ice Cream is the place to go. Bennett’s Ice Cream is a step above the rest because they make their ice cream themselves. You can even peek in a window and watch them do their thing. You can find them and their award-winning ice cream in stall 548 at the Original Farmers Market.
Best Camping Near the Original Farmers Market
You’ll likely require more than one day to try as many of the restaurants at the Original Farmers Market as possible. In addition, the area surrounding the Original Farmers Market is fun and exciting to explore. If you’re traveling in an RV, a couple of great RV parks nearby make it easy to explore the area. Let’s take a look!
Dockweiler Beach RV Park
Dockweiler Beach RV Park offers three long rows of 118 RV sites with full hookups. Sites are next to the beach, and you have quick and easy access to enjoy the surf and sand. You can hop on the bike path and walk, jog, or bike for miles.
You must make a reservation ranging from $65 to $75 per night. However, the park does offer dry camping for $45 per night. While amenities are lacking, you’re paying for the proximity to the beach and ease of access to all that LA offers.
Hollywood RV Park
This family-owned RV park has been catering to everyone from movie stars to tourists since 1976. Staying here allows you to be close to the cities of Hollywood, Burbank, and downtown LA. You can easily enjoy all that Southern California offers when you book one of the 180 sites at Hollywood RV Park.
These full hookup sites cost $79 per night, and the park offers monthly rates if you want to stay longer. Guests rave about the customer service and the owner, who takes pride in keeping the campground clean and in fantastic condition.
Conclusion
The Original Farmers Market has been running since 1934 and is one of the best markets in LA. No matter the age or size of your group, the market is a great spot to visit. With so many possibilities, you can easily spend hours tasting and exploring all the market offers.
If you’re planning a trip to LA in the future, make sure you build some time into your schedule to visit the Original Farmers Market. Trust us. Your tastebuds will thank you!
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