Echo Park Time Travel Mart

Echo Park Time Travel Mart is one of the Best Things To Do With Kids In L.A. A closer look reveals a variety of "time travel" curiosities that one may want in order to travel to the far past or future. At first glance, the interior of this storefront appears to be no different from any other market in the neighborhood. For instance, a sizable library of literature, Primordial Soup in a Can, Robot Toupees, and Barbarian Repellent. How come? The store is essentially a front for 826LA, a literary nonprofit that author Dave Eggers started, even though everything inside is for sale.

In fact, all the books in the store were written by the children who receive free tutoring and creative writing workshops in the classroom, which is accessible through a hidden door in the back of the store. (Many are even expertly published and offered for sale on Amazon.) Another insider tip: If you have a great concept for a product to sell in the market, the staff will work with you to create it so that it can be offered to the general public. which might encourage others to part with cash and support this fantastic nonprofit. Seven themed stores from 826 National include Brooklyn's Superhero Supply Co. and DC's Museum of Unnatural History, in addition to the Time Travel Mart.

Google Rating: 4.5/5.0

Location: 1714 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles
Contact: www.timetravelmart.com
Phone: 213-413-3388
Opening hours: Mon-Sun noon-6pm