Carson Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich city of Carson located in Los Angeles County, California. Discover places to visit, things to do, hikes to take, food to try, and where to stay.


Carson, located in Los Angeles County, Southern California, is a culturally and naturally rich city that offers visitors plenty of exciting things to see and do. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Carson has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll dive into the must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, best places to eat and stay, and much more!

Introduction to Carson

Carson is a city located in Los Angeles County, California, just 13 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. It is part of the South Bay region of Greater Los Angeles and has a population of around 93,000 people. Carson is known for its diverse population, rich history, and wide range of activities available to visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Carson

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. International Printing Museum - A unique museum that showcases the evolution of printing technology and its impact on society. It features working antique printing presses and hosts classes and workshops.
  2. California State University Dominguez Hills - A public university located in the heart of Carson that offers a range of art and culture events, including musical performances, plays, and art exhibitions.
  3. SouthBay Pavilion Mall - A shopping center that features an outdoor marketplace, several restaurants, and an AMC Movie Theater.

Natural Attractions of Carson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. StubHub Center - A multi-use stadium that hosts several sports events and concerts throughout the year. It also has hiking trails and a jogging track.
  2. Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park - A beautiful park that features a lake for fishing, playgrounds, barbecue areas, picnic tables, and several hiking trails.
  3. Del Amo Park - A family-friendly park that features four baseball fields, a roller-hockey rink, a playground, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Carson

  1. Dominguez Gap Trail - A 2.2-mile trail that takes you through the Dominguez Channel and offers gorgeous views of the wetlands.
  2. Dolores Leggett Park Trail - A 0.75-mile trail that takes you through a peaceful park and features several exercise stations along with scenic views.
  3. Hiking Trail at Del Amo Park - A 1.95-mile trail that takes you through the park’s stunning landscape with a lake, woods, and rolling hills.

Best Things to Do in Carson: Activities and Tours

  1. Go-Kart World - An indoor amusement park that offers several go-kart tracks, a mini-golf course, an arcade, and a snack bar.
  2. Trampoline Park - A fun place that features several trampolines, dodgeball, and basketball courts, a rock-climbing wall, and an arcade.
  3. Whale Watching - A unique way to explore the local coastline and see these amazing creatures up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Carson

Day 1: StubHub Center, Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park Day 2: International Printing Museum, Dolphin Park Day 3: Go-Kart World, Hiking Trail at Del Amo Park Day 4: Trampoline Park, Dominguez Gap Trail Day 5: Whale Watching, California State University Dominguez Hills Day 6: SouthBay Pavilion Mall, Del Amo Park Trail Day 7: Dolores Leggett Park Trail, International Printing Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Carson

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tacos - Carson is famous for its delicious tacos, and there are several local spots to try them.
  2. Korean BBQ - Thanks to the city’s large Korean population, there are several excellent Korean BBQ restaurants in Carson.
  3. Seafood - Being a coastal city, Carson has plenty of fresh seafood options, including shrimp, lobster, and fish tacos.

Local Beverages

  1. Craft Beer - Several local breweries offer delicious craft beer varieties.
  2. Boba Tea - Carson has several excellent Boba places.
  3. Fresh Juice - Several juice shops offer fresh juices made from local ingredients.

Where to Stay in Carson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles - Located in the heart of Carson, this hotel offers a range of amenities, including a fitness center, outdoor pool, and hot tub.
  2. Motel 6 - An affordable option located near several attractions and restaurants.
  3. Ayres Hotel - A more upscale option located a few miles away from Carson, but still easily accessible.

What to Buy in Carson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Local art and crafts - Several galleries and street vendors offer unique pieces of local art.
  2. Korean skincare products - Carson is home to several Korean pharmacies that offer excellent skincare products.
  3. Beachwear and souvenirs - Visit the several gift shops located near the coastline.

Local Culture and Customs of Carson

Carson is a diverse city with a mix of cultures and customs. The city celebrates this diversity with several ethnic festivals and events throughout the year. Visitors to Carson will enjoy experiencing the city’s unique blend of cultures and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Carson

Carson enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, making it a pleasant destination to visit any time of the year. However, the best time to enjoy the city’s outdoor attractions and activities is from April to September when the weather is at its warmest.

Do’s and Don’ts of Carson

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine.
  2. Visit the local attractions, museums, and parks.
  3. Wear sunscreen and comfortable clothing.

Don’t:

  1. Litter in parks or on beaches.
  2. Leave valuables visible in cars.
  3. Travel alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Carson

Carson is a relatively safe city, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take common-sense precautions like locking their cars and keeping valuables out of sight. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings at night and avoid unfamiliar areas.

Health in Carson

Visitors to Carson should take precautions against the sun and bring sunscreen and hats to protect themselves from the sun’s rays. Mosquitoes can also be a problem in some areas, so visitors should bring repellent.

Getting to Carson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Carson

The closest airport to Carson is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is around 15 miles away. John Wayne Airport (SNA) is another option, located 30 miles south of Carson.

Bus Stations Near Carson

Carson is well-connected to neighboring towns, and visitors can take a bus from several stops located throughout the city.

Other Options

Visitors to Carson can also rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Carson

Visitors to Carson can use several transportation options, including buses, taxis, rideshare services, and rental cars.

Where to Go Next from Carson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Long Beach - A neighboring coastal town that boasts several beautiful beaches and tourist attractions, including the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific.
  2. Palos Verdes Peninsula - A scenic area that offers several hiking trails, a lighthouse, and a nature reserve.
  3. Torrance - A nearby city that offers several parks, shopping centers, and historical sites.

Conclusion

Carson, California, offers a wide range of attractions, activities, and experiences that make it a great destination for visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich culture and history or take in the natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in Carson. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can make the most out of their trip to this vibrant Southern California city.