Huntington Park Travel Guide

Huntington Park, a gateway city in Los Angeles County, is a hidden gem in Southern California. Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and things to do in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Huntington Park

Nestled in the heart of the Gateway Cities region of Los Angeles County, Huntington Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its rich cultural diversity, laid-back atmosphere, and abundant outdoor activities, this Southern California city offers something for everyone.

Whether you are a history enthusiast looking to explore centuries-old landmarks or an outdoor adventurer in search of picturesque trails, Huntington Park is the perfect destination for you. This travel guide will be your ultimate resource to explore Huntington Park to its fullest potential.

List of Places to Visit in Huntington Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Huntington Park boasts a variety of culturally significant attractions that will transport you back in time. Take a walk through history with these must-visit landmarks:

  • The Huntington Park Historical Society: This museum showcases Huntington Park’s past and the development of the surrounding area. The museum provides a glimpse of what life was like for the city’s founding residents.
  • Saint Matthias Church: A beautiful neo-Gothic church that has been standing for over a hundred years. This church is an architectural marvel that will transport you to a time when Gothic architecture was in vogue.
  • The Veterans Memorial Park: A serene park dedicated to the area’s veterans and their families. The park is a great place to relax and reflect on the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes.
  • The Farmer John Mural and Greaves Mortuary: A vibrant mural and edifice, respectively, of two classic American brands that have been integral to Huntington Park’s history, provide perfect selfie spots and will give you a sense of how times have changed over the years.

Natural Attractions of Huntington Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Huntington Park offers an abundance of scenic trails and outdoor activities to bring nature lovers closer to Mother Nature. Here are the must-visit natural attractions in Huntington Park:

  • Rancho Rio Los Cerritos: This 17-acre park located in Huntington Park is, in actuality, a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of the city. The park has trails that can take you into a wooded area along with an outdoor theater, picnic areas and hosts several events throughout the year.
  • The Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park: This 231-acre park offers a wide range of activities including birdwatching, fishing, and hiking trails. The Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park is by-and-large the largest park in the area, and can accommodate all kinds of activities, games and large groups of people.
  • The Compton Creek Natural Park: A unique ecological park that contains wetlands and woodlands that are home to various species of flora and fauna. Take a walk on the wetland trail or check out the visitor center to learn more about the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Huntington Park

Hiking and biking are some of the preferred activities that Huntington Park visitors enjoy. Check out the following scenic routes for a great workout:

  • The Greenbelt Loop Trail: A beautiful and picturesque trail, this is a popular 3.7-mile biking track with moderate difficulty, perfect for family biking, with an easy route for beginners and seasoned bikers alike.
  • The Rio Hondo Trail: This stunning and scenic trail spans over 17 miles, featuring a combination of urban and forest routes. With a mild altitude gain of under 500 feet, this trail is great for day-long biking vacations near Huntington Park.
  • The Hondo Park Loop: A 1.9-mile trail located near Huntington Park that offers a great nature escape with stunning lake views and mild obstacles from a downhill slope. This picturesque trail is perfect for beginners or someone looking for a leisurely walk with a beautiful view.

Best Things to Do in Huntington Park: Activities and Tours

Enjoy the best activities and tours in Huntington Park for an adventurous and exciting trip! Explore the following:

  • The Vintage Bike Tour: A five-mile bike tour that takes you through Huntington Park’s historic sites and landmarks. You will learn about the area’s history and architecture in this fun and educational experience.
  • The Art Walk: A unique tour that explores Huntington Park’s famous graffiti art. You will visit different pieces of street art and learn about the city and its culture from local art connoisseurs.
  • Sky Zone: An indoor trampoline park that offers fun activities for the whole family. Enjoy a unique bouncy experience with trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Huntington Park

Make the most of your time in Huntington Park with this ultimate seven-day itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Compton Creek Nature Park

Day 2: Take a graffiti tour of Huntington Park

Day 3: Enjoy a biking excursion at the Rio Hondo trail

Day 4: Visit the Green Belt Loop Trail for an easy 3.7-mile hike or bike

Day 5: Take a day trip to Los Angeles

Day 6: Hike the Hondo Park Loop trail

Day 7: Visit the Huntington Park Historical Society

Food and Drink Scene of Huntington Park

Huntington Park boasts an impressive food and drink scene. Experience some of the must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chile Rellenos: A Mexican classic made of stuffed poblano peppers with melted cheese, dipped in egg batter and fried to perfection.
  • Taco Trucks: Huntington Park is home to several must-try taco trucks scattered throughout the area which serve up delicious street style grub.
  • Churros: A sweet dessert specialty, this fried dough pastry is crispy and coated with cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for a hearty post-dinner treat.

Local Beverages

  • Michelada: A famous beer cocktail mixed with spices, lime juice, clam juice, and other savory ingredients that give it a spicy kick. It’s a popular drink in most of California’s Latino communities.
  • Horchata: A delicious rice milk/cinnamon-based beverage that is perfect for thirsty travelers on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Huntington Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are the best accommodations to consider in Huntington Park:

  • Quality Inn & Suites Lynwood: A comfortable, well-maintained hotel offering free breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi. The Quality Inn is located just steps from the Compton Creek Natural Park.
  • Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham South Gate: A reasonably priced hotel with spacious rooms, free continental breakfast, and Wi-Fi.
  • Motel 6 Los Angeles - Bell Gardens: A no-frills, budget-friendly motel. The Motel 6 is a perfect option for travelers looking for an affordable yet comfortable stay in Huntington Park.

What to Buy in Huntington Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to take home with you:

  • The L.A. Grind Cafe Coat: Lightweight, wearable, and perfect for Huntington Park’s mild climate. This branded coat comes in a range of sizes and colors.
  • Cherimas, (Mexican sweets): This popular Mexican sweet treat made of tamarind is a must-try while in Huntington Park. It’s a perfect gift to bring back home for loved ones who have a sweet tooth.
  • Pito Rico: This soft drink from Mexico is a refreshing and sweet beverage with a slight fermented taste. It is perfect for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Local Culture and Customs of Huntington Park

Huntington Park’s vibrant culture has created its customs and traditions over the years. Here are some insights:

  • Festivals and Celebrations: Huntington Park is known for its variety of cultural festivals and celebrations. Check the local calendar for events like Dia de los Muertos or Independence Day festivities.
  • Language and Food: Another essential part of Huntington Park’s culture is its Spanish-speaking residents, and it’s traditional Mexican food. These items are an irremovable part of the city’s heritage and culture.

Best Time to Visit Huntington Park

The best time to visit Huntington Park is during the spring (March to May) and late fall (September to November). Temperatures are mild, and the crowds are less dense than in the summertime. The weather is still sunny and warm, perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Huntington Park

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Huntington Park:

Do:

  • Do explore the natural and cultural wonders of the city.
  • Do engage with locals and learn to speak Spanish.
  • Do respect people’s cultures and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to respect the city and its cultural diversity.
  • Don’t litter or vandalize public spaces.
  • Don’t try to bargain for everything.

Safety and Health

Safety in Huntington Park

Huntington Park is a safe city, but it is always good to be alert and cautious, especially when traveling alone or at night. Here are some tips to stay safe during your visit:

  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Stay in well-lit areas.
  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables close to you.

Health in Huntington Park

With a consistent warm climate, most of the health concerns within Huntington Park stem from over-exposure to sunlight or dehydration. Here are a few health tips to keep in mind:

  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
  • Wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
  • Invest in a pair of comfortable hiking shoes.
  • Prepare for seasonal allergies as needed.

Getting to Huntington Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Huntington Park is accessible by various means of transportation. Here are your options:

Airports Near Huntington Park

The closest airports to Huntington Park are:

  • The Los Angeles International Airport: 17.6 miles southeast of Huntington Park.
  • The Long Beach Airport: 11.6 miles south of Huntington Park.
  • The Burbank Bob Hope Airport: 14.4 miles northeast of Huntington Park.

Bus Stations Near Huntington Park

Severance bus and railway stations are located the neighboring cities of Bell and South Gate.

Other Options

  • Taxis and Rideshare Services: Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Los Angeles and Huntington Park. Taxis are also available, but it’s more common and convenient to use ride-hailing services.
  • Rent a Car: Huntington Park is located near Los Angeles, so renting a car might be more convenient and allow for more flexibility while traveling.

How to Get Around in Huntington Park

One of the top-rated ways to get around Huntington Park is to use public transportation. Metro buses and trains operate within and around the city. The main routes include:

  • The Metro Blue Line: This line connects Long Beach and Downtown Los Angeles and runs through Huntington Park.

Where to Go Next from Huntington Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Huntington Park’s gateway location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby destinations. Here are some of the destinations you should consider:

  • Los Angeles: Just 13 miles away, the vibrant city of Los Angeles is known for its glitzy glamour, Hollywood, and Disneyland among others.
  • Santa Monica: Located 23 miles away, Santa Monica’s sun-kissed beaches, excellent restaurants, and shopping are a perfect place to unwind.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Huntington Park is a hidden gem of the Gateway Cities region of Los Angeles County that offers a plethora of cultural, natural, and outdoor activities. With this comprehensive travel guide, you are now ready to have the adventure of your lifetime in one of Southern California’s finest cities.