When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store
Why Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store stands as a vital community resource in the Lincoln Heights neighborhood, offering a wide range of new and gently used items including clothing, shoes, accessories, housewares, furniture, appliances, and even cars. This thrift store is much more than a shopping destination; it embodies a mission deeply rooted in faith and service, inspired by the Catholic lay organization founded on Gospel values. The store offers affordable options for shoppers looking to support sustainable practices while helping neighbors in need. Free parking and convenient hours from 9:30am to 5:45pm Monday through Saturday, and until 4:45pm on Sundays, make it accessible to all. Profits generated help fund the Society's charitable programs dedicated to alleviating poverty and providing assistance to the less fortunate across Los Angeles County. With a historic connection to the Vincentian mission dating back to 1887, the thrift store continues the legacy of serving the community through generosity and personal relationships, making it an excellent place to meet up with friends, find unique items, and contribute to meaningful social causes.
Here's what people think of Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store
As of recent, Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store holds a 4-star rating based on 896 reviews.
Reviews of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store reflect a generally positive customer experience, with an overall rating of 4.0 stars based on 896 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the store's vast selection of merchandise, including affordable prices on clothing and household items, and the rewarding feeling of shopping for a good cause. Many reviewers appreciate the store's mission-driven approach and the sense that their purchases contribute directly to helping local communities in need. People also mention the friendly and helpful staff as a notable plus, enhancing the shopping experience. On the negative side, some customers have expressed concerns about the organization and cleanliness of the store, occasional pricing inconsistencies, and limited availability of certain items. A few have mentioned crowds during peak hours and challenges with parking despite the availability of free parking nearby. Overall, the reviews affirm that the thrift store is a valued community asset that balances charitable impact with a rewarding shopping experience, encouraging visitors to support both sustainable shopping and meaningful social outreach.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mindy Parker
It is a huge store that's true. And a good selection of furniture, some of the best I've seen at many thrift stores in LA. These are Poshmark prices. Not great. As a reseller you can probably find a few good deals when the tag is half off because it was priced too high before that. Did find a pair of like new RL tropical print kicks. $24.99 but I didn't have to pay shipping.
Elizabeth Cornejo
this place has lost its mind!!! what do you mean you are getting these things donated to you for FREE and you’re selling me these things for 100$?!?! everything is super over priced here. seen dressers with broken drawers still over 100$… fake jewelry 20$ & up they are trippin so hard. i used to shop here when i was little but now they’ve gone insane with over pricing things that are not even worth the price and that was free to them. i get they need to make money somehow but be reasonable !!!
jocelyn i
They’ve lost their damn minds with the pricing. 74.99 for an amber glass fruit bowl?! Facebook Marketplace is cheaper. Just wow.
Imani
Probably the best thrift store I’ve ever been to! Great prices along with a great variety of things to shop for. Men & Womens Clothing, shoes, furniture, antiques, children’s clothing, kitchenware, toys, jewelry, etc!!! Their prices are also very good and convenient. We found real Jordan’s in here that would typically cost $200-$300 for $40! The atmosphere was great, friendly staff and shoppers. I can’t wait to come back
OMAR A. MUHAMMAD, TH.M
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul claims it is the largest thrift store in Los Angeles, which certainly seems true. Upon entering, it feels like an indoor swap meets market. The store offers a great variety of items for purchase, ranging from washing machines to automobiles and from large house furnishings to kitchenware and small appliances. While I found the prices fair, they were too high for my budget. Nonetheless, there is something at this thrift store for everyone. I plan to return when I have more time and money to explore further.
How to reach Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store
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Why Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store with your friends?
Gathering at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) Los Angeles Thrift Store offers a truly unique experience that combines social connection, meaningful shopping, and community impact. This is not just any thrift store—it is a place where your group’s visit supports a broader cause, helping local people in need through the Society’s charitable programs. With a strong 4.0 rating from nearly 900 reviewers, it balances good quality and affordable finds with an authentic opportunity to give back. Meeting up here means you and your friends can explore aisles of carefully donated clothing, furniture, housewares, and accessories together, hunting for that hidden gem or vintage treasure. Beyond shopping, the atmosphere encourages conversation and collaboration, making decisions on items to buy or donate, sparking nostalgia or fashion creativity. The store's commitment to sustainability — recycling goods rather than letting them go to waste — also makes your outing environmentally conscious. Whether catching up over a treasure hunt or deciding on contributions, the thrift store setting fosters purpose, discovery, affordability, and fun, making it an ideal meeting spot for friends or family looking to bond over something rewarding and unique.
What activities can you do at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store?
The main activity at this thrift store is, of course, thrifting—shopping for new and gently used items such as clothing, shoes, household goods, furniture, and even electronics. It’s a treasure trove where each visit can offer something new, from stylish apparel to functional home decor. Visitors often enjoy browsing aisles filled with a diverse range of items, searching for anything from vintage collectibles to everyday essentials, making it a fun and engaging group activity that stimulates conversation and decision-making. In addition to shopping, customers can also donate gently used items when they come, turning the visit into a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the community. For groups, collecting items together or helping to sort donations during certain events can be a rewarding shared experience. The store also provides free parking and convenient hours every day of the week, adding to its accessibility for meetups. Plus, the store sometimes highlights special deals or promotions, such as discounts or events, making the trip even more enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Why is Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store perfect for group meetups?
This thrift store’s location and layout are designed to accommodate groups comfortably, providing a spacious and welcoming environment where friends and family can explore together without feeling rushed or cramped. Its open hours from morning to early evening throughout the week and weekends mean groups can find a convenient time to gather that fits everyone’s schedule. The store’s mission-driven atmosphere inspires a shared sense of purpose among visitors: each purchase or donation contributes directly to local relief efforts, assisting people facing housing, food, and financial hardships across Los Angeles County. This communal spirit can deepen connections among your group as you discuss which items to buy or donate while knowing you’re supporting a worthy cause. Additionally, the variety of goods appeals to diverse tastes and needs, ensuring that everyone in your gathering finds something interesting. Group meetups here can turn into story-sharing moments about thrift finds, upcycling projects, or charitable giving, making your time spent together rich with meaning and interaction.
How does visiting support the community and enhance your experience?
Every dollar spent or item donated at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store directly supports programs that provide food, clothing, rental assistance, and emergency relief services to those in need around Los Angeles. This connection to the community transforms a simple shopping trip into an impactful act of kindness. When you rally with friends, it becomes a collective contribution to social welfare, giving everyone involved a sense of pride and accomplishment. The organization's transparency about where proceeds go builds trust and satisfaction in your purchases. Besides helping neighbors in need, thrifting at SVdP also promotes sustainability by extending the life cycle of goods and reducing landfill waste. This combination of charity and eco-friendly shopping enhances your meetup with purpose and fulfillment, making your casual day out more meaningful.
What should you know before visiting?
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store is located at 210 N. Ave. 21, Los Angeles, CA 90031, with operating hours from 9:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Sundays, offering plenty of flexibility for scheduling your group outing. There is free parking, easing the logistics of meeting up and carrying purchases home. The store encourages visitors to follow safety guidelines, including mask-wearing and social distancing, to protect the health of employees and shoppers. For those interested, there are opportunities to volunteer or make donations beyond shopping, adding layers to how your group can engage with the mission. Phone contact and website details are available for any questions or to arrange special services like donation pickups, making planning seamless. Being prepared with these practical details ensures your group has a smooth, pleasant, and fulfilling visit.
Why is it a smart choice for your wallet and the planet?
Shopping at the SVdP store offers an affordable alternative to conventional retail without sacrificing quality or style. The wide selection of gently used and sometimes new items means your group can find great deals on fashion, home goods, and more, making it easier to stick to a budget during social outings. This affordability encourages repeated visits and exploration, keeping your meetups fresh and exciting. Environmentally, choosing thrift reduces demand for new production, saving resources like water and energy, and minimizing textile and material waste. Your group’s collective decision to shop secondhand sends a positive message about responsible consumption. Ultimately, the thrift store aligns fun and financial savvy with eco-consciousness, catering to values many want to uphold while enjoying time together.
What unique experiences can your group discover?
Beyond the usual thrift shopping, the SVdP store in Los Angeles offers surprises like occasional unique finds ranging from vintage decor to rare books and even vehicles, providing a delightful variety that sparks discovery. Groups can turn their trips into mini scavenger hunts, competing or collaborating to find the coolest or most unusual items. The store’s impact-focused backdrop invites conversations about community needs and how each purchase helps, deepening understanding and empathy within your circle of friends or family. Moreover, the store serves as a gateway to broader SVdP services, including summer camps for kids, support programs, and retreat centers, which your group might explore or support together afterward. This variety makes each visit distinct and layered with opportunities for learning, sharing, and bonding.
How can your group get more involved beyond shopping?
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul encourages people to volunteer alongside shopping or donating, offering roles that include sorting donations, assisting customers, and helping run special events. Volunteering as a group can be a powerful team-building experience and a way to deepen your collective connection while giving back. The store regularly welcomes passionate, enthusiastic helpers, making it easy to step in whether you have a few hours or want longer-term engagement. Donations of gently used items are always appreciated and directly fuel the store’s success, giving your group a chance to declutter responsibly together. Signing up for newsletters or social media updates can keep your group informed about special drives, discounts, and community events, enhancing future visits. Engaging beyond buying fosters a fuller relationship with the organization and maximizes the positive impact your meetup can have.
What makes Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store stand out from other thrift shops?
Its combination of quality offerings, charitable mission, and well-organized shopping environment creates a compelling destination for meetups. Unlike many thrift stores, SVdP’s proceeds funnel into a wide net of community aid, ranging from emergency financial support to long-term assistance programs, giving every transaction a profound purpose. The store maintains high standards for donated goods, ensuring shoppers find appealing, clean, and useful items, while also being generous with pricing. Its long-standing reputation and positive customer reviews reflect a reliable shopping experience with friendly staff and a commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the Los Angeles location’s broad inventory includes remarkable items such as furniture and even cars, which is rare for thrift stores, expanding the scope of what your group can explore and acquire. These distinctive qualities elevate any visit from simple shopping to an engaging community experience that rewards socially conscious consumers.
How does the atmosphere foster social interactions and group enjoyment?
The layout and welcoming nature of the store encourage leisurely browsing and lively discussions among friends and family. As you sift through racks and shelves, there’s natural space for sharing opinions, reminiscing about past finds, or brainstorming creative uses for items. The store often becomes a backdrop for joyful surprises when someone spots a perfect piece or an unexpected bargain, sparking smiles and stories. Shared activities like comparing fashions, choosing home accents, or co-planning charity contributions strengthen interpersonal bonds and create lasting memories. Staff and volunteers contribute to the positive vibe by offering helpful, friendly assistance that enhances the group’s experience. Overall, the environment facilitates a relaxed and interactive outing that elevates any social gathering beyond the ordinary.
What should you expect after your visit?
Leaving the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Los Angeles Thrift Store, your group can feel a strong sense of contribution and satisfaction, knowing your visit benefits people facing hardship in your community. Many groups report feeling inspired to return more often or to involve more friends and family in future trips. The affordable purchases and the thrill of finding unique items often spark new plans for refurbishing or gifting, keeping the day’s joy alive. Additionally, the shared experience tends to strengthen connections and inspire conversations about giving, sustainability, and style choices. Some groups even follow up by exploring other SVdP programs or volunteering, continuing the positive impact they helped initiate. All these outcomes contribute to your meetup’s success both in fun and meaningful impact.