Top 15 Attractions and Activities in La Mirada, CA

La Mirada is a city with a population of approximately 50,000 located in Los Angeles County. Although it is regarded as a suburb of Los Angeles, its charming small-town ambiance makes it feel significantly distanced from the bustling city that lies just a short drive away.

This city boasts delightful weather year-round and an advantageous location, providing easy access to the coast and its beautiful beaches, as well as neighboring cities such as Cerritos, Whittier, and La Habra.

La Mirada offers various parks, cafes, restaurants, and shopping destinations like Mirada West Shopping Center, Valley View Square, and Green Hills Plaza.

Below are 15 recommended activities to enjoy in and around La Mirada, California.

1. Restore and Rejuvenate at Santia Day Spa

Travel can be exhausting both mentally and physically; however, an afternoon at Santia Day Spa offers the opportunity to rejuvenate and prepare for the adventures that await in La Mirada and its surroundings.

Services available include soothing facials, body treatments, and massages, utilizing only products that are cruelty-free and made domestically.

2. Learn About Local History at the Whittier Museum

The Whittier Historical Society manages the Whittier Museum, dedicated to the collection and preservation of local historical artifacts.

The museum showcases a variety of exhibits related to the history and culture of Whittier, featuring artifacts, historical photographs, and memorabilia from significant events.

Visitors can explore an authentic Victorian cottage, meticulously preserved to reflect its original state from the early 1900s.

The site also features exhibits dedicated to the life of Richard Nixon, an historic barn, and a blacksmith’s workshop.

3. Check out the Cerritos Farmers’ Market

Every week, regardless of weather conditions, a diverse group of vendors gathers at the Cerritos Farmers’ Market, offering a wide selection of fresh, locally sourced produce from regional farms.

In addition to produce, visitors can find homemade bread and pastries, flowers, honey, and other local goods.

4. Appreciate Local Art at the Whittier Art Gallery

The Whittier Art Gallery, established in the late 1930s, has been displaying an array of beautiful artwork from renowned local artists.

Exhibits are frequently updated, showcasing the work of various artists, including Lynn Azali and Lisa Keffer Ruiz.

5. Satisfy a Craving at Mr. V’s Bar and Grill

At Mr. V’s Bar and Grill, patrons can indulge in classic all-American cuisine presented in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Both lunch and dinner options are available, with an emphasis on using the freshest ingredients. Even sauces and dressings are crafted from scratch!

Menu highlights include appetizers, seafood, steaks, soups, salads, and main courses such as linguini marinara, chicken kabob, fettuccini alfredo, and penne pasta pesto.

The bar features an extensive selection of draft beers and signature cocktails.

6. Enjoy a Live Performance at the Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts

The Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, located at Whittier College in nearby Whittier, has hosted exceptional performances since 1990.

The center comprises the Robinson Theater, accommodating approximately 400 guests, and the Studio Theater, a more intimate venue for around 75 guests.

Concerts and theatrical productions form part of the center’s calendar, featuring renowned artists such as Los Lobos and Henry Mancini in previous performances.

7. Take a Break at La Mirada Community Regional Park

La Mirada Community Regional Park is renowned for its picturesque landscape, featuring numerous facilities and opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities.

Whether one desires a tranquil space to unwind or somewhere to exercise, the park’s ample green spaces provide a suitable environment for relaxing, picnicking, or engaging in recreational games.

Spanning 76 acres, the park includes softball fields, tennis courts, multiple playgrounds, BBQ-equipped picnic areas, and a challenging 27-hole disc golf course.

Fishing is a favored pastime at the lake, while a 1.5-mile walking trail offers opportunities for birdwatching. Concerts are occasionally held throughout the year at this venue.

8. Have a Family Day at Knott’s Berry Farm

Among California’s amusement parks, Knott’s Berry Farm in nearby Buena Park is esteemed for its broad range of rides and attractions suitable for various age groups.

Sprawling over 160 acres, this established park has delighted families for over a century.

Thrilling rides for older visitors include roller coasters such as the Xcelerator and the Silver Bullet, while numerous rides cater to all ages, including the Timber Mountain Log Ride and bumper cars.

Younger children can enjoy attractions developed specifically for them, including Camp Snoopy and pleasantly gentle rides.

Exploring the park also allows for engagement in several interactive experiences, such as gold panning and visiting the Western Trails Museum.

Dining options range widely, featuring offerings from fries to gourmet pizzas.

9. Visit Pio Pico State Historic Park

Visitors can easily spend an entire afternoon discovering the various attractions within the Pio Pico Historic Park in Whittier.

The park’s centerpiece is El Ranchito, known as the Pio Pico Adobe, which was the residence of the notable Pio de Jesus Pico.

The structure, completed in 1853, underwent renovations in 1867 due to flooding, and was restored to its former glory in 2000, reflecting its historic condition.

The mansion comprises 15 rooms and contains exhibits showcasing artefacts that delve into the history and culture of Whittier and the surrounding area.

10. Tee off at La Mirada Golf Course

La Mirada Golf Course, a prestigious 18-hole course designed by William Bell, provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience suitable for golfers of all skill levels.

This par-70 course features various difficulties, including strategically placed lakes, bunkers, and concealed target shots.

The practice area includes two putting greens, a chipping green, and a well-lit driving range. Professional lessons are offered, and a pro shop is conveniently located on the premises.

11. Take an Exciting Journey with Pirates Dinner Adventure

The Pirates Dinner Adventure in nearby Buena Park elevates the concept of dinner theater, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the experience.

Patrons can participate in several interactive shows designed for the entire family, including selections like Legend of the Loch Ness Monster and Vampirates.

Your adventure commences aboard an 18th-century Spanish galleon, leading to an exhilarating journey filled with battles, acrobatics, and stunning aerial performances.

The evening concludes with a lavish four-course meal, and those who upgrade their experience may enjoy dining with the captain.

12. Spend a Rainy Day at the Cerritos Library

The Cerritos Library is not merely a repository of books; it represents the first Experience Library globally and has received numerous accolades as the best library in the United States.

This expansive facility caters to individuals of all ages, offering over 200 computers for work or personal use, alongside an impressive collection of over 300,000 titles to explore.

Children particularly enjoy dedicated spaces featuring an aquarium, theater, and arts and crafts area. Adults appreciate themed reading rooms such as the Old World Reading Room and the World Traditions Room.

13. Visit the Cerritos Sculpture Garden

This emerging sculpture garden in Cerritos is a remarkable instance of public art thriving in a serene, park-like environment.

Presently, notable installations include a memorial dedicated to the Cerritos air disaster and Infinity, which is a kinetic light sculpture that alters its hues based on ambient light and shadows.

14. Shop for Beautiful Jewelry at Native Visions

Whether in search of a distinctive gift or a unique accessory, Native Visions in Cerritos offers a selection of exquisite pieces crafted by acclaimed indigenous artists from the region.

15. Shop and Dine at Cerritos Towne Center

For shopping enthusiasts or those simply looking to spend a leisurely day, Cerritos Towne Center offers a centralized location for diverse shopping and dining experiences.

This open-air retail complex features a variety of shops, including Best Buy, Kohl’s, Dress Barn, and several clothing stores catering to women, men, and children.

On-site dining options include Starbucks and Macaroni Grill, complemented by facilities such as a performing arts center, library, and City Hall within this expansive complex.