The Student News Site of University of California - San Diego

The UCSD Guardian




The Student News Site of University of California - San Diego

The UCSD Guardian

The Student News Site of University of California - San Diego

The UCSD Guardian




    Kobey's Swap Meet

    Tucked into the northeast corner of the San Diego Sports
    Arena’s parking lot, Kobey’s Swap Meet is a deal-finder’s destination for kitschy
    collectables and amusing junk. As a 32-year-old tradition, the weekly event is
    the third largest outdoor market on the West Coast, bringing about 30,000
    shoppers and 1,000 vendors.

    A vendor’s lot at Kobey’s Swap Meet offers deals on household items and entertaining trinkets for searching bargain hunters. (Will Parson/Guardian)

    Filled with a range of vendors — from modest garage sale
    lots to handcrafted accessory stations — the market features a homey ambiance
    conducive to hours of roaming. For students hoping to furnish their apartments,
    vintage dining sets and bizarre artwork run below $10. If you’re looking to
    economize, $1 lots offer cheasp household items. While commercial vendors sell
    Forever 21-ish accessories (read: unconvincing designer knockoffs), unexpected
    trinkets scattered throughout the lot provide surprising deals on classic
    jewelry and purses. For those hoping to relive their childhood (or imagine the
    pathetic lack of technology during their parents’ childhoods), archaic cameras,
    dated telephones and eerie troll dolls are peppered throughout sellers’
    selections.

    While it’s easy to get lost among aisles of junk, smart
    shoppers should come with a game plan. Since the meet is outside, dress for the
    weather accordingly. Although the entry charge is just $1, bring plenty of cash
    to avoid the market’s pricey ATM surcharge. If you’re planning on purchasing
    heavy furniture, rent a $7 cart. While there are cheap lunch options (like $3
    corndogs) bring your appetite to better restaurants off of Rosencrans. As for
    parking, avoid the Sports Arena and drop off your car on a nearby side street.

    Whether you’re treasure searching or just looking to laugh
    at some weird stuff, Kobey’s is a thrifty way to spend a weekend morning.

    Kobey’s Swap Meet

    3500 Sports Arena Blvd.

    San Diego, CA

    (619) 226-0650

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