When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Public Estrellas
Why Public Estrellas is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Public Estrellas is a unique thrift store located in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, offering a compelling blend of fashion, community engagement, and affordability. Established in 2023, this store stands out by sourcing intriguing clothing and accessories from Europe, Asia, and America, providing shoppers with a diverse and adventurous selection that feels like a global treasure hunt. The store’s innovative pricing approach simplifies the shopping experience, with everything priced $15 and under, making it highly accessible for budget-conscious customers. Public Estrellas also offers a "bundle and save" discount system, encouraging customers to purchase more by granting increasing discounts based on the number of items bought. Additionally, the store creatively integrates a concept similar to a coffee shop menu for easy price reference and only uses tags or barcoding for high-end items. Beyond shopping, Public Estrellas embraces sustainability and community support by allowing customers to donate clothing for store credit, thus promoting reuse and upcycling. The store functions as a community hub through its monthly Estrellas Bazaar markets, where clothing, music, and art intersect to foster social connections and cultural exchange. Its inclusive atmosphere is known particularly for welcoming the LGBTQ+ community, reinforcing its role as more than just a store but a vibrant, safe, and welcoming space for diverse customers.
Here's what people think of Public Estrellas
As of recent, Public Estrellas holds a 4.9-star rating based on 199 reviews.
Customer reviews of Public Estrellas overwhelmingly express high satisfaction, as reflected in its outstanding 4.9-star rating based on nearly 200 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the store’s affordable and transparent pricing, which allows shoppers to find stylish, international fashion items for $15 or less. Shoppers appreciate the well-curated and diverse inventory, which includes everything from casual jeans to leather pants and unique jackets, making every visit feel like an exciting hunt for hidden gems. The clean, organized space and the welcoming, community-oriented environment are often praised, with many reviewers noting how the store successfully fosters inclusivity, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. The innovative bundle discount system and the option to exchange clothing for store credit further enhance customers' positive experiences. On the other hand, negative remarks are minimal but occasionally mention limited store hours or the relatively small space, which may restrict item availability at times. Some customers desire more frequent restocking or a larger selection on certain days. Overall, the positive reviews far outweigh any negatives, and they underscore how Public Estrellas not only provides great value but also cultivates a strong sense of community, making it a beloved thrift destination in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Akura Levine
The place was pretty organized and as clean as a thrift store could be. The clothing sections are easy to navigate but I felt that most of the clothes were catered to older women and majority of the clothing were just old school clothes. I did go around closing though, so it’s possible the good clothes were already gone.
Billie Rainer
I had a great time wandering around exploring all the racks. Prices are super affordable and much much appreciated, makes me feel more free to express myself. I will be back, many thanks and much love. 💜
Indie
Really nice thrift store. Prices are very clear which is super helpful. It’s also super affordable. I got a nice pink J.Crew sweater for $6. The selection is somewhat limited because it’s fairly new but I still managed to find something nice
mary
Stepping into this eclectic thrift store, I was struck by the unique blend of vintage vibes and AMAZING taste of music. Each piece of clothing, sourced with care from Japan, Germany, and Italy seemed to tell a story, inviting people into a world where past and present harmoniously coexist. The pricing is similar to a coffee shop pricing and the owner seems to buzz with a creative mind - I realized this wasn't just a shop but a potential vibrant hub for events and gatherings, perfectly capturing the essence of a community meeting space. Will return again╰(*´︶`*)╯♡
Elizabeth De La Fuente
Good selection of things for it being so new and almost all of the clothes is $8 or less. The store smelled really good and the owner informed me that they pre clean all the clothes first! Owner was really nice and you get a punch card and punch every time you spend $20♥️ Highly Recommended and I will be coming back
How to reach Public Estrellas
None
Website: None
Why Public Estrellas may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Public Estrellas with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meet-up at Public Estrellas offers a unique, vibrant experience that goes well beyond a typical hangout. This thriving thrift store, located in Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles, has quickly become a hotspot for groups who enjoy combining socializing with a shared passion for sustainable fashion and discovery. The atmosphere here is inviting and inspirational—perfect for creating lasting memories while hunting for hidden gems within neatly organized racks. What sets Public Estrellas apart is its carefully curated selection of vintage and contemporary clothing at affordable prices, making it an exciting place to explore without breaking the bank. Beyond shopping, the store embodies a community spirit fostered by the owner, Chris Ohanian, whose passion for fashion and photography is woven into the store’s identity. This creates an intimate, creative environment that fuels conversation and connection among friends. Whether you want to bond over style tips, enjoy discovering unique outfits, or just soak up the positive vibes of a locally loved space, Public Estrellas is an ideal rallying point for groups looking for an engaging and meaningful meetup.
What activities can you do at Public Estrellas for a group meetup?
Public Estrellas is primarily a thrift store, but it offers much more than just shopping, making it a versatile destination for groups. Firstly, clothes hunting is an engaging and fun group activity here—friends can compete or collaborate to find the best vintage jackets, rare branded pieces, or quirky accessories at unbeatable prices. The store’s layout is intentional and easy to navigate, promoting a relaxed yet immersive thrifting experience with ample space to explore together. If your group enjoys styling and fashion discussions, this is the perfect environment to share opinions, mix-and-match finds, and get inspired by Chris’s photography displayed around the store, which adds an artistic flair. Additionally, Public Estrellas hosts occasional events and pop-ups that can coincide with meetups, offering even more entertainment and chances for group interaction. The welcoming vibe means your party can comfortably spend hours browsing, connecting, and maybe even planning future group outfits. Finally, the communal spirit and excellent customer service create opportunities for meeting other thrifting enthusiasts, enriching your event with new conversations and connections.
Why is Public Estrellas perfect for group meetups?
Public Estrellas excels as a venue for group meetups for several reasons. The store’s space is well-organized and spacious, so groups of friends or family can comfortably move about without feeling cramped—this is crucial for an enjoyable communal experience. Its vibrant and inclusive culture encourages everyone to express themselves freely, making it a safe and welcoming place for diverse groups. The affordability of the clothing means friends with different budgets can all enjoy access to quality fashion finds, which helps keep meetups stress-free and fun. The personalized service, led by Chris Ohanian, adds a human touch—it feels like stepping into a friend’s thoughtfully curated closet rather than a standard retail store. Moreover, the unique combination of thrift shopping and art exposure (due to the owner’s passion for photography) creates multiple points of interest, allowing groups to socialize beyond just buying clothes. This mix of a creative setting, accessibility, and community makes Public Estrellas an exceptional place for meaningful, fun, and stylish group gatherings.
What is the shopping experience like at Public Estrellas?
Shoppers at Public Estrellas consistently praise the store for its cleanliness, organization, and the quality of its merchandise. The racks are divided by clothing types, sizes, and price ranges, which streamlines the shopping process and makes group outings more efficient. The price point is remarkably accessible, with many items ranging from $5 to $15, including reputable brands like Levi’s, Members Only, and Fox Motocross. This affordability attracts thrifters from all backgrounds, making the shopping experience inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. The careful curation means you rarely encounter worn-out or low-quality pieces, and customers often find rare vintage items that feel like genuine treasures. When shopping with friends, this setting encourages sharing discoveries and styling advice, enhancing the overall enjoyment. Friendly and attentive staff, including the owner himself, provide personalized service and interesting conversation, making the visit feel welcoming and special rather than cursory or transactional.
How does the owner’s vision enhance the Public Estrellas experience?
Chris Ohanian, the founder and owner of Public Estrellas, brings a deep personal passion that significantly elevates the store beyond an ordinary thrift shop. His background in journalism and photography influences the aesthetic and atmosphere of the space. Throughout the store, you’ll find displays featuring his photographs, adding artistic depth and narrative to the shopping experience. This blend of creativity and commerce reflects a holistic vision—Public Estrellas is not just about selling clothes but about fostering inspiration and community engagement. Chris’s dedication is clear in the thoughtful curation and customer service, where he often personally greets visitors and shares stories behind the items or the store. His ambitions to highlight local culture through the store’s offerings encourage guests to view thrifting as both an art and a sustainable lifestyle. This personal touch makes every visit feel authentic and engaging, which is ideal for groups seeking a meaningful outing that combines discovery, culture, and social interaction.
What other amenities or features does Public Estrellas offer for groups?
While Public Estrellas is primarily recognized for its clothing selection, the store also offers additional amenities that enhance group visits. The spacious interior allows for easy navigation by multiple people simultaneously, which is crucial for a comfortable group experience. Its location in Lincoln Heights places it within reach of various cafés and eateries, enabling extended plans like grabbing a bite or coffee after thrifting without needing to travel far. The store's bright ambiance and modern, clean design contribute to a pleasant atmosphere for group photography or social media moments, something many meetups cherish. Public Estrellas also actively fosters an inclusive and welcoming vibe, making it an inviting space for gatherings of friends or family with diverse tastes and interests. Though concrete details of events are sporadic, the store occasionally hosts themed sales or creative meetups, perfect for groups interested in deeper community engagement. These features collectively make Public Estrellas more than a shopping destination—it’s a social hub ideal for group outings.
What nearby attractions or conveniences make Public Estrellas a convenient meetup spot?
Situated at 2701 N Broadway in Lincoln Heights, Public Estrellas benefits from being in a culturally rich and accessible neighborhood of Los Angeles. This location is advantageous for groups as it combines an eclectic urban vibe with convenient transportation options, including public transit and parking. Nearby, there are several local coffee shops, restaurants, and parks, allowing groups to complement their thrift store visit with meals, refreshments, or outdoor relaxation. Lincoln Heights itself is known for its growing arts scene and community events, so a meetup at Public Estrellas can easily extend into broader exploration of the area’s cultural offerings. The neighborhood’s mix of historic charm and contemporary energy adds to the appeal, offering a backdrop that suits casual hangouts and more curated social experiences alike. Accessibility, atmosphere, and nearby amenities together create a seamless, enjoyable day out for groups choosing Public Estrellas as their gathering place.
How does Public Estrellas contribute to sustainable fashion and community support?
Public Estrellas embodies the principles of sustainable fashion by encouraging thrifting as an alternative to fast fashion’s environmental impact. By offering carefully selected secondhand and vintage pieces, it promotes reuse and reduces clothing waste. This commitment appeals especially to groups passionate about ethical consumerism, providing a shared value that enhances the meetup experience. The store’s approach supports local artisans and smaller brands, alongside popular vintage labels, contributing to a diverse and resilient marketplace. Furthermore, the community-oriented focus of Public Estrellas, led by its owner’s vision, fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support among shoppers. Regular customers often cite the friendly service and inclusive atmosphere as signs of a business rooted in caring for people and the planet. For groups, this means their outing isn’t just social fun but also a meaningful act of sustainable consumption and community engagement.
How can hosting a meetup at Public Estrellas inspire creativity and connection?
Hosting a meetup at Public Estrellas offers more than just shopping—it’s an inspiring setting for creativity and connection. The store’s curated fashion collection doubles as a muse for styling, photography, and design discussions among friends or family. The presence of original photographic art by the owner enhances this creative environment, sparking conversations that transcend the usual shopping chatter. Groups can experiment with looks, exchange fashion tips, and even plan collaborative outfits, turning the visit into an interactive creative workshop. The store’s welcoming ambiance further encourages open exchange and new friendships with fellow thrifters who share similar interests. This dynamic makes Public Estrellas an ideal venue for meaningful social interactions, where personal expression and community bonding happen naturally. For groups eager to cultivate inspiration while enjoying each other’s company, this thrift store meetup is a uniquely rewarding experience.
What tips ensure a great group experience at Public Estrellas?
To make the most of a group meetup at Public Estrellas, it helps to plan a few details upfront. First, encourage everyone to arrive with open minds and comfortable clothing for trying on different styles. Since the store is organized by clothing type and size, consider dividing tasks—with each person focusing on certain racks or styles to cover more ground efficiently. Setting a modest budget for thrifting makes it fun and fair for all group members. Take breaks together throughout the visit to share finds and snapshots, which enhances the social aspect and helps sustain energy. Finally, consider coordinating your visit with any special events or sales the store might host, as that adds an extra layer of excitement and opportunity. Keeping the mood light, collaborative, and respectful of other shoppers will ensure everyone enjoys their time in this vibrant community space. These tips help transform a regular shopping trip into a memorable group adventure at Public Estrellas.