Magic Johnson Sports Store at LAX: What to Buy

Shop Overview

The Magic Johnson Sports Store is LAX’s most recognizable stop for Los Angeles sports pride—especially Los Angeles Lakers merchandise—making it an easy win for travelers who want a high-energy, LA-themed gift that packs well. It’s designed for quick browsing: grab-and-go apparel, accessories, and souvenir-style items you can take straight to the gate.

Selection typically leans into Lakers-branded gear (the store is widely noted as the first airport store dedicated to Magic Johnson), with a broader mix of LA and California sports-themed items depending on stock. Expect a straightforward airport retail experience: compact footprint, popular sizes and styles up front, and staff used to helping shoppers find a gift fast before boarding.

What to Buy

• Top sellers: Lakers hats/caps, graphic tees, hoodies, and souvenir apparel that’s easy to wear on the flight or give as a gift.
• Easy gifts: Keychains, mini basketballs, mugs, and other small LA sports keepsakes that fit in a carry-on.
• Travel-friendly fan staples: Beanies, socks, and compact accessories—good for last-minute purchases when you don’t want bulky items.
• Airport exclusives/local angle: Look for LAX- or LA-themed variants and limited-run Lakers designs that rotate seasonally; these tend to sell through quickly in airport locations.

Price note: This is not a duty-free shop, so you shouldn’t expect duty-free savings. Pricing is typically in line with other airport specialty retailers—convenient, but often a bit higher than buying the same licensed gear off-airport or online. If you’re comparing value, smaller items (caps, tees, accessories) usually offer the best “airport convenience-to-price” ratio.

Location & Hours

Exact location: Listed at LAX in various terminals; it’s most commonly associated with Terminal 5. If you’re flying out of Terminal 5, look for it on the departures level after security, where most LAX retail is concentrated.

Directions: After clearing security in Terminal 5, scan the main concourse retail cluster on the way toward the gates. If you’re in another terminal, ask an information desk or check terminal directories—inventory and storefront presence can vary.

Hours: Store hours can vary by terminal and flight schedules. LAX operates 24/7, but security and many concessions run on reduced overnight schedules. For the best selection, shop during standard daytime/evening departure waves.

Peak vs. quiet times: Busiest periods are typically early morning and late afternoon/evening banked departures. Quieter windows are mid-morning and mid-afternoon—best if you want time to check sizing and styles.

Shopping Tips

• Duty-free reminder: This store is not duty-free. If you’re also shopping duty-free (Terminal B or DFS locations), keep receipts separate for easier customs review.
• Reserve & collect: Generally not advertised for this type of specialty airport retail; plan to buy in-store and allow a few extra minutes for checkout during peak times.
• Returns/exchanges: Airport store return policies can be stricter than mall retailers. Before paying, confirm the window for returns/exchanges and whether tags/receipts are required—especially for apparel sizing.
• Payment/currency: Expect USD pricing and major credit cards to be accepted. If you’re paying with cash, smaller bills help speed up checkout.