It’s hard to be such a big store and still maintain an independent feel but Amoeba has endured through the years and is still able to keep some semblance of it (despite the obvious need to also push commercial fare). It has the kind of things you’d expect from indie stores: merchandise for true fans (massive selection of t-shirts and posters included), section with staff recommendations, subgenre within subgenre for music and film... Yes, not only does it have an absurd collection of music in several formats, it also has a whole floor dedicated to movies, with rare foreign films and an outstanding Criterion catalog to boost.
My two favorite things about Amoeba though are their free live shows (I will never forget my first one here) and their clearance section, which I make sure to check out on every visit. Mind you, this is not to find hidden bargains, it’s more about finding hidden gems (like this one or this one). Every CD is only about $3 and if you buy four, the cheapest one is free. It’s been my unorthodox way of finding new music for a few years now. The satisfaction you get from discovering a band completely on your own is pretty special.
There’s so much more to discover
Discover more in Los Angeles
Pasta Sisters – Fresh pasta YOUR way!
"Pasta Sisters" in Los Angeles proves that even something as simple and basic as spaghetti bolognese can be sublime with the proper care and love...
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United Artists Theater – Golden Era Hollywood
As the first United Theater, it's grandiose, ornate, and absolutely gorgeous. Immaculate details from floor to ceiling. This movie palace feels special to be inside.
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The Cat and Fiddle – UK bar
"The Cat and Fiddle" in Los Angeles is a British bar with great Monday pie and pint. I love the happy hour, and I love the atmosphere to read here!
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Perry's at the Beach – Put your feet in the sand!
At "Perry's at the Beach" in LA you can chow down on the best avocado toast of your life while putting your feet in the sand or renting gear for beach fun!
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Columbia Memorial Space Center – To the stars...!
"Columbia Memorial Space Center" in Los Angeles is dedicated to the lost crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia. It's a fun learning center for all ages!
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Tao Comedy Studio – Open mic & comedy school
"Tao Comedy Club" in Los Angeles is a hidden gem of a comedy club. It's also a school of comedy, where you can follow Bobbi Oliver's different approach...
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Xian Restaurant – Classic Chinese food done right
"Xian Restaurant" in Los Angeles is a guarantee. How do I know? Well, this place has existed since '96 - few places make it this long, I can tell you...
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Marvin Braude Bike Path – Beauty and exercise
"Marvin Braude Bike Path" could just be 'going for a beach bike ride in Los Angeles'. It's my favorite thing to do in the city. So much to see!
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Korea BBQ House – Best noodle soup in LA
"Korea BBQ House" is a place that makes me drive to the other side of LA for! It's a-ma-zing. This ramen is both stomach & soul-warming.
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LA Thrift Shops – Treasure Hunting
I love thrift shopping! Like treasure hunting, you never know what you're going to find. There's joy in seeing new value in old things. Breathing fresh life into something recycled.
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Hui Tou Xiang – Noodle and Dumpling House
Craving dumplings? This spot near Elbow Room sports bar serves unique square dumplings and noodles. It's busy, so grab a beer at the bar while you wait!
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Singing Beach Chairs – Lalalalalalala
The "Singing Beach Chairs" located on Santa Monica Beach are a fun public art display that you can climb up on! Created by Doug Hollis in 1987...
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