Top 15 Activities in Lakewood, California You Can’t Miss

Located approximately 23 miles from Los Angeles is the city of Lakewood. With a population of about 81,000 residents, this city combines an urban atmosphere with the charm of tree-lined streets and over 150 acres of parks and green spaces, earning its designation as a Tree City USA.

Lakewood offers a variety of amenities for a pleasant visit. A wide selection of restaurants can be found in the city, particularly along the downtown area known as Restaurant Row.

For shopping, Lakewood presents options ranging from independent, locally-owned boutique stores to larger shopping centers such as Lakewood Center and Lakewood Marketplace.

The city hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Pan American Fiesta and Summer Concerts in the Park, occurring on Thursday evenings during the summer months.

Due to its central location, Lakewood provides easy access to major regional attractions, including Disneyland and Universal Studios.

Below is a curated list of 15 notable activities to engage in while visiting Lakewood, California.

1. Start Your Visit with a Relaxing Afternoon in Mayfair Park

Featuring 18 acres of recreational space, Mayfair Park in Lakewood is an excellent venue for a leisurely afternoon, whether you prefer relaxing or participating in physical activities. It ranks as one of the city’s premier recreational sites due to numerous available amenities, including a swimming pool, playground, picnic area, and walking trail.

2. Enjoy a Leisurely Visit to the Norwalk Nature Center

While exploring urban areas, it is refreshing to encounter a more tranquil setting that allows for a respite from the hustle and bustle. The Norwalk Nature Center, located in the nearby city of Norwalk, provides a splendid opportunity for such an escape.

During your visit, you can interact with domesticated animals residing on-site and enjoy a charming garden featuring vegetables, fruit trees, and a pond.

3. Enjoy a Delicious Meal at Humblebrags Eatery

Regardless of the time of day, Humblebrags Eatery in Lakewood features a comprehensive menu that caters to diverse tastes, encompassing a variety of starters, salads, sandwiches, and burgers.

Additionally, dinner options include dishes such as Penne Pesto Pasta and an assortment of chicken and steak meals, paired with local craft beers on tap.

4. Catch up on Local History at the Dominguez Rancho Adobe

The Dominguez Rancho Adobe is a museum located in nearby Rancho Dominguez that narrates the history of the Dominguez family homestead. Visitors can opt for a guided tour or explore the grounds independently.

You will encounter two exquisite gardens— the Rose Garden and the Cactus Garden— and can visit the on-site gift shop.

Living history programs, such as the reenactment of the Battle of the Old Woman’s Gun, occur throughout the year, as well as events tied to seasonal celebrations, including the Dia De Muertos Celebration.

The museum also hosts speakers on various themes, including the history of Native American tribes in the region and the broader history of California.

5. Escape into an Urban Wilderness Along the West San Gabriel River Parkway Nature Trail

Even amidst an urban landscape, you can find an opportunity to connect with nature in Lakewood. The West San Gabriel River Parkway Nature Trail follows the scenic San Gabriel River. Spanning 2.5 miles, this trail offers glimpses of native flora, local wildlife, and breathtaking natural vistas.

6. Try Your Luck at the Gardens Casino

For an exhilarating evening, consider visiting the Gardens Casino in nearby Hawaiian Gardens. Enjoy a wide selection of table games, such as Texas Hold’em, coupled with access to multiple flat-screen televisions and a cocktail bar.

The Triple 7 Sports Bar and Grill features a diverse menu highlighting dishes prepared with fresh California ingredients and offers handcrafted cocktails along with local craft beers.

7. Secure a Tee Time at Lakewood Golf Course

Experience an exceptional day of golfing at this 18-hole, 7,033-yard championship course, recognized as one of the premier golfing venues in the region.

Lakewood Golf Course features numerous sand bunkers and par 3’s, along with a practice area that includes two putting greens and a pitching green. Instruction is available for golfers of all ages and abilities.

8. Indulge in Worldly Dishes at Hanako Sushi and Thai Cuisine

If you are seeking a unique dining experience, consider stepping away from the traditional local cuisine to relish traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes at Hanako Sushi and Thai Cuisine located in Lakewood.

The establishment offers a warm atmosphere complemented by amiable and professional staff dedicated to accommodating your culinary preferences.

Dining options include ramen, rolls, chicken teriyaki, shrimp fried rice, and tempura plates. A sushi bar is available, accompanied by an extensive beverage menu featuring various beers, wines, and sake.

9. Enjoy Art in an Outdoor Setting at the Cerritos Sculpture Garden

Located in nearby Cerritos, the Cerritos Sculpture Garden serves as an ideal venue for appreciating local art while enjoying a picturesque outdoor setting.

This attraction was generously dedicated to the community as part of a 50th-anniversary celebration. The initial sculptures placed in this remarkable garden commemorate the Cerritos Air Disaster. Additional sculptures, including the Statue of Freedom, Mirage, and The Elements, are also featured.

As you stroll through the garden, you will experience a serene environment enriched with greenery and stone structures.

10. Explore Del Valle Park

Del Valle Park in Lakewood is another stunning park where visitors can enjoy beautiful vistas and peaceful surroundings amidst nature.

While there, take the time to stretch your legs through the scenic landscape, have a picnic on the expansive lawns, and capture memorable photographs with the large replica of a Douglas F3D Skyknight jet fighter. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts with local musicians.

11. Take the Little Ones to Lakewood Equestrian Center

Children, as well as adults, can delight in an afternoon spent at the Pony Time Lakewood Equestrian Center.

As you explore this facility, you will find a petting zoo featuring many domesticated animals, such as sheep, alpacas, rabbits, goats, and llamas. On select days, pony rides are also available, and parents with young children can learn about grooming and saddling a pony.

12. Indulge in the Arts at the Long Beach Museum of Art

For art enthusiasts, the Long Beach Museum of Art offers an excellent venue to explore and engage with both local and international artworks.

The museum hosts a variety of permanent and rotating exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new to discover with each visit. In addition to paintings, the museum showcases diverse art forms, including textiles, glassworks, and sculptures.

Workshops are occasionally offered, and guided tours are available weekly, providing an opportunity to learn more about the art and the museum’s collection.

13. Explore the Pacific Ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific

While reaching the depths of the Pacific Ocean may not be feasible, a visit to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach offers insight into its underwater inhabitants.

This expansive aquarium features 32 exhibits across 19 distinct habitats, representing the diverse ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean. Within these habitats, you will find over 11,000 marine animals spanning 500 species.

During your exploration, you can learn about the ocean and its wildlife, view an array of 3D and 4D films, experience the Shark Lagoon, and witness the care provided to the animals behind the scenes. You may also have the chance to interact with certain marine creatures.

14. Embark on an Adventure with Harbour Breeze Whale Watching

The coastal waters near Long Beach offer splendid opportunities for whale watching, and Harbour Breeze Whale Watching provides an ideal route for such adventures.

Join a knowledgeable crew on a safety-certified, eco-friendly double-decked vessel as you venture into deep waters, where sightings of grey whales, blue whales, and several other species are common.

In addition to whales, you may also encounter dolphins and various seabird species. The crew is well-versed in marine biology and offers an educational narrative throughout your journey. Onboard amenities include a snack bar and restroom facilities.

15. Enjoy an Afternoon of Fun at Golf N Stuff

Located in nearby Norwalk, Golf N Stuff offers a plethora of entertainment for visitors of all ages throughout the day.

The main attraction features four engaging and themed 18-hole mini-golf courses, including themes such as haunted houses and the old west.

Additional recreational options include the Disk ‘O Thrill Rides and the Indy Raceway, allowing patrons to drive on a winding track.