Los Alamitos Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Los Alamitos, California. This travel guide offers tips and recommendations for an unforgettable trip.


Los Alamitos is a charming city located in Orange County, Southern California. Known as the “Friendly City,” it is a popular tourist destination thanks to its rich history, natural beauty, and diverse cultural attractions. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the top things to do, see, and explore in Los Alamitos and help you plan an unforgettable experience.

Introduction to Los Alamitos

Los Alamitos is home to a variety of attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. The city boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century when Spanish explorers settled here. Today, visitors can enjoy a vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks and open spaces, and unique culinary experiences. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway or a romantic escape, Los Alamitos has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Los Alamitos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Los Alamitos Museum Association - Learn about the history of the city and the surrounding area through exhibits and artifacts at this small but informative local museum.
  • Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens - Step back in time and experience life on a working ranch in the 1800s. Tour the historic ranch buildings and explore the lush gardens and grounds.
  • Rossmoor/Los Alamitos Area Historical Society Museum - Discover the history and culture of the Rossmoor and Los Alamitos area through exhibits and displays at this community-run museum.
  • Seabiscuit Heritage Foundation - Horse racing enthusiasts will love visiting the Seabiscuit Heritage Foundation, located at the Los Alamitos Race Course. Learn about the legendary thoroughbred racehorse through interactive exhibits and displays.

Natural Attractions of Los Alamitos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Alamitos Bay Marina and Park - This picturesque marina and park is a great place to relax by the water, go for a stroll, or enjoy a picnic. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available.
  • El Dorado Nature Center - This 105-acre nature preserve features walking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and a variety of ecosystems, from wetlands to forests.
  • Los Alamitos Creek Trail - Hikers and bikers can traverse this scenic trail through the Los Alamitos Creek watershed, with stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape.
  • Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge - Located just south of Los Alamitos, this protected wildlife refuge is home to a variety of native birds, plants, and animals. It’s a great spot for bird-watching and nature photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Los Alamitos

Los Alamitos offers several scenic hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Coyote Creek Bikeway - This 7.7 mile bike path spans from Artesia to Long Beach and passes through the heart of Los Alamitos.
  • El Dorado Nature Center Trails - The nature center offers several nature trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
  • Los Alamitos Creek Trail - This 4.3-mile trail is popular for hiking, jogging, and biking, with scenic views of the creek and surrounding park spaces.
  • Los Cerritos Wetlands Trail - This 2.6-mile trail takes hikers through some of the most scenic areas of the Los Cerritos Wetlands, with views of native wildlife and plant life.

Best Things to Do in Los Alamitos: Activities and Tours

Los Alamitos offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Some of the must-try experiences include:

  • Los Alamitos Race Course - Catch a thrilling live horse racing event at this world-renowned racecourse, which features races year-round.
  • Skydive Los Angeles - For the ultimate adrenaline rush, take a tandem skydiving jump over Los Alamitos with a certified instructor.
  • The Attic on Broadway - One of the top-rated restaurants in Los Alamitos, The Attic features an eclectic menu of Southern comfort food and a rooftop patio with stunning views of the city.
  • Urban Adventure Quest Scavenger Hunt - Explore Los Alamitos in a fun and interactive way with this high-tech scavenger hunt that takes you to the city’s top landmarks and attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Los Alamitos

For a complete Los Alamitos experience, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Check into your hotel, and head over to the Los Alamitos Museum Association to get a sense of the city’s history. From there, grab lunch at one of the local restaurants downtown before heading to Rossmoor/Los Alamitos Area Historical Society Museum. End your day with a stroll through the beautiful gardens at Rancho Los Alamitos Historic Ranch and Gardens.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Alamitos Bay Marina and Park for a morning excursion. After lunch, head over to the El Dorado Nature Center for a hike through the wildlife preserve. Finish off your day watching the sunset over the city from Skydive Los Angeles.

Day 3: Tourist Attractions

Visit the Seabiscuit Heritage Foundation in the morning, then take a group tour of the Los Alamitos Race Course. Grab lunch at The Attic, then head out for some shopping at nearby Belmont Shore. In the evening, catch a movie at the local Edwards Cinema.

Day 4: Beach Day

Spend the day basking in the sun on Seal Beach, just south of Los Alamitos. Rent some beach chairs and umbrellas and spend the day relaxing by the water. In the evening, grab some dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.

Day 5: Local Cuisine

Take a food tour of Los Alamitos and sample some of the city’s best dishes and snacks. We recommend starting with breakfast at The Nest, then moving on to lunch at Crema Café and dinner at The Original Fish Company.

Day 6: Nearby Excursions

Take a day trip to nearby Long Beach and tour the Queen Mary, one of the most famous ocean liners in history. After lunch, head to the Aquarium of the Pacific for a fascinating look at marine life from around the world. End your day with dinner at one of the local restaurants near the Long Beach waterfront.

Day 7: Departure

On your final day in Los Alamitos, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before packing up and checking out. Head over to El Dorado Park for one last look at the beautiful scenery before bidding farewell to the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Los Alamitos

Los Alamitos is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, the city has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. When in Los Alamitos, don’t forget to try some of the local specialties.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuban Sandwich - This delicious sandwich is a local favorite, featuring roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on a crusty roll.
  • Fish Tacos - A California classic, fish tacos are a must-try when in Los Alamitos. Try them with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole.
  • Tri-Tip Steak - A popular cut of beef in the region, tri-tip steak is usually seasoned with a spicy rub and grilled to perfection.
  • Garlic Fries - Savor the flavor of garlic fries, a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with burgers and sandwiches.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer - Los Alamitos has a vibrant craft beer scene, with several local breweries producing delicious artisanal brews. Some of the most popular include Phantom Ales, Beachwood Brewing, and Seal Beach Ale House.
  • Wine - The nearby Temecula Valley Wine Country is known for its exceptional wines, with several local wineries offering tastings and tours.
  • Coffee - Los Alamitos has a thriving coffee culture, with several local cafes serving up artisanal espresso drinks and specialty brews.

Where to Stay in Los Alamitos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Los Alamitos offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the top-rated hotels in the area include:

  • Ayres Hotel Seal Beach - This luxurious hotel features spacious guest rooms, a fitness center, a heated pool, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Hampton Inn Los Alamitos/Orange County - This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Residence Inn Cypress Los Alamitos - This extended-stay hotel features spacious studio and one-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Los Alamitos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Los Alamitos, don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Some popular options include:

  • Horse Racing Memorabilia - Los Alamitos has a rich horse racing history, so be sure to check out the gift shops at the Los Alamitos Race Course for souvenirs related to the sport.
  • Local Artwork and Crafts - The city has a thriving arts scene, with several local artists and craftsmen selling handmade goods at galleries and markets around town.
  • Orange County Wine - The nearby Temecula Valley Wine Country produces some of the best wines in the region, so stock up on local varietals to enjoy back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Los Alamitos

Los Alamitos has a laid-back, friendly vibe that reflects the local culture and customs. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the relaxed pace of life and interact with locals, who are known for their warmth and hospitality. Respect for nature, history, and local traditions is also important in Los Alamitos, so be mindful of the environment and cultural norms.

Best Time to Visit Los Alamitos

The best time to visit Los Alamitos is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. Summer can be hot and busy, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting during this season. Winter is usually cooler and quieter, but still a good time to visit if you don’t mind the cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Los Alamitos

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s history and culture at local museums and historical sites.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including Cuban sandwiches, fish tacos, and garlic fries.
  • Do take advantage of the city’s outdoor attractions, such as hiking trails and beaches.
  • Do interact with locals and embrace the friendly, laid-back vibe of the city.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural or historical sites.
  • Don’t leave valuable items unattended in public areas.
  • Don’t drive recklessly or exceed posted speed limits.
  • Don’t ignore local customs or cultural norms.

Safety and Health

Los Alamitos is a safe city with low crime rates and a friendly community. As with any travel destination, visitors should take basic precautions to ensure their health and safety, such as practicing good hygiene and using sunscreen during outdoor activities. In case of medical emergencies, there are several hospitals and clinics in the area, including Los Alamitos Medical Center and Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.

Getting to Los Alamitos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Los Alamitos is easily accessible by car, plane, or public transit. Some of the most popular transportation options include:

Airports Near Los Alamitos

  • Long Beach Airport - Located just 5 miles west of Los Alamitos, Long Beach Airport offers domestic and international flights on several major airlines.
  • John Wayne Airport - Located 22 miles south of Los Alamitos, John Wayne Airport offers flights to several major domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Los Alamitos

  • Los Alamitos Transit Center - This local bus terminal offers service on several Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) bus lines.
  • Long Beach Transit - The Long Beach Transit system offers several bus routes that serve Los Alamitos and the surrounding area.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - Several major car rental companies, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis, operate in the Los Alamitos area.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps - Taxis and ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are readily available in Los Alamitos.

How to Get Around in Los Alamitos

Los Alamitos is a relatively small city, so getting around on foot or by bike is a popular choice for visitors. However, there are also several transportation options for those who prefer to drive or take public transit. Some of the most popular options include:

  • OCTA Bus - The Orange County Transit Authority operates several bus lines that serve the Los Alamitos area.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps - Taxis, as well as ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Los Alamitos.
  • Car Rental - Several major car rental companies, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis, operate in the Los Alamitos area.

Where to Go Next from Los Alamitos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Los Alamitos is conveniently located near several other popular tourist destinations in Southern California. Some of the top picks for day trips and excursions include:

  • Long Beach - Located just 6 miles south of Los Alamitos, Long Beach offers a variety of attractions, including the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Long Beach Museum of Art.
  • Disneyland - Just 11 miles east of Los Alamitos, Disneyland is one of the world’s most famous theme parks, with dozens of rides, attractions, and live entertainment options.
  • Huntington Beach - Known as “Surf City, USA,” Huntington Beach is a popular destination for sun and surf enthusiasts, with miles of sandy beaches and world-class surfing spots.
  • Los Angeles - Just a short drive up the coast, Los Angeles offers endless attractions, from Hollywood to Beverly Hills to Santa Monica.

Conclusion

Los Alamitos is a wonderful destination for travelers looking to experience California’s rich history, natural beauty, and diverse culture. Whether you’re interested in hiking, horse racing, or simply relaxing by the beach, Los Alamitos has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this friendly and vibrant city.

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