Pico Rivera Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and how to get around in Pico Rivera. Plan your Southern California adventure with our week-long itinerary and nearby excursion suggestions.


Introduction to Pico Rivera

Nestled in the Gateway Cities of Southern California, Pico Rivera is a small city with unique cultural and natural attractions. Pico Rivera is known for its open spaces, recreational opportunities, and diverse restaurant scene. This travel guide will give you all the information you need to explore Pico Rivera, including a list of must-visit attractions, best things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Pico Rivera

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history, Pico Rivera has some excellent museums and historical sites you should visit:

  • Pio Pico State Historic Park: This adobe house museum was once owned by Pio Pico, the last governor of Mexican California. It provides an insight into the state’s history.

  • Bicentennial Park: Bicentennial Park is a great place for families to picnic, play, and learn. It features a renovated barn museum that showcases the community’s agricultural past.

Natural Attractions of Pico Rivera: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you love the outdoors, Pico Rivera has plenty of scenic vistas and outdoor activities to enjoy:

  • Whittier Narrows Recreation Area: This recreation area is a site of local, national, and international significance. It’s a great spot for outdoor activities, bird watching, or a leisure paddle boat ride.

  • Pico Park: Pico Park has a beautiful pond, a playground, and a community center that offers recreational activities and events.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pico Rivera

  • San Gabriel River Bike Trail: This trail stretches over 38 miles from Seal Beach to Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area in Irwindale, passing through Whittier Narrows Recreation Area.

  • Sycamore Canyon Trail: This trail offers an amazing view of Sycamore Canyon, lush greenery, and opportunities for bird watching.

Best Things to Do in Pico Rivera: Activities and Tours

  • Pico Rivera Sports Arena: Experience live music, rodeos, and sporting events at this iconic venue that has hosted numerous celebrities.

  • Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Get your adrenaline pumping by bouncing, playing dodgeball, or trying out the warrior course.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pico Rivera

Day 1 - Visit Pio Pico State Historic Park and learn about the history of Mexican California.

Day 2 - Spend a day in nature at Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, picnic by the stream, paddle boat around it, and bird watch.

Day 3 - Stroll along the San Gabriel River Bike Trail and stopover at the trailheads.

Day 4 - Alternatively, take the Sycamore Canyon Trail for an easy-to-moderate hike.

Day 5 - Take on the excitement of the Sky Zone Trampoline Park and take some Instagram-worthy shots.

Day 6 - Enjoy some live music, rodeos, and sports events at the Pico Rivera Sports Arena.

Day 7 - Get a taste of local food and explore local shops and boutiques in downtown Pico Rivera.

Food and Drink Scene of Pico Rivera

Must-Try Dishes

If you’re a foodie, Pico Rivera has some of the best local restaurants that satisfy your hunger:

  • El Pescador: Satisfy your seafood cravings with fresh, flavorful dishes at this local favorite restaurant.

  • Casa Jimenez: From delicious shrimp tacos to fajitas, Casa Jimenez has a huge menu of Mexican classics that everyone will love.

Local Beverages

  • Juan’s Rotisserie Chicken: Try a savory Peruvian dish served with their signature sauce and a cold Inca Kola.

Where to Stay in Pico Rivera: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Americas Best Value Inn - Pico Rivera/East Los Angeles: This hotel offers free breakfast, free wifi, and an outdoor pool.

  • GuestHouse Inn & Suites Pico Rivera/Downey: This hotel offers free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

What to Buy in Pico Rivera: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Mexican Candy: You’ll find a variety of Mexican candies, from sweet to spicy, in any local Mexican market.

  • Vibrant Mexican Blankets: These vibrant and cozy blankets make a perfect souvenir of your SoCal trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Pico Rivera

Pico Rivera is a diverse community that celebrates its heritage through various events and festivities. Visitors are expected to respect each other’s culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Pico Rivera

Pico Rivera has a dry, sunny climate and can be visited year-round. The best time to visit is during the summer when the cultural events and festivals are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pico Rivera

Do:

  • Explore the local food scene.

  • Respect cultural diversity.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.

  • Be disrespectful towards local customs and cultures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pico Rivera

Pico Rivera is generally safe, but take normal precautions as anywhere else.

Health in Pico Rivera

Pico Rivera has quality healthcare facilities, and visitors can access medical services without any difficulties.

Getting to Pico Rivera: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pico Rivera

  • Long Beach Airport (LGB)
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Bus Stations Near Pico Rivera

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • LA Metro Bus Station

Other Options

  • Driving: Pico Rivera is accessible via 605 and 5 highways.

How to Get Around in Pico Rivera

Pico Rivera is a walkable city, but if you want to explore surrounding areas, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

Where to Go Next from Pico Rivera: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Los Angeles: Experience LA’s urban culture, nightlife, and attractions.

  • Santa Monica: Stroll along the iconic Santa Monica pier or enjoy the beach and boardwalk.

  • Anaheim: Visit Disneyland and enjoy thrilling rides and memorable attractions.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history lover, adventure seeker, or foodie, Pico Rivera has something for everyone. Plan your Southern California adventure with our comprehensive travel guide and add Pico Rivera to your bucket list today!