Things To Do
in El Monte
El Monte sits in the San Gabriel Valley east of downtown Los Angeles, a mid-sized city with a diverse, family-friendly character. It blends longtime neighborhoods with growing dining and shopping options and quick access to the foothills. The city serves as a convenient gateway to both urban LA and scenic nature in the San Gabriel Mountains.
Expect a welcoming community with a rich mix of cultures, parks, and local events.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe on Garvey Avenue. Sample classic American dishes alongside fresh pastries made in-house. Let the aroma of freshly brewed coffee kickstart your El Monte adventure.
Explore the Friendly Hills neighborhood and stop by the local farmers market if it's open. Wander through stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal snacks, and handmade crafts. Chat with friendly vendors to learn about community highlights.
Dine at a family-owned Mexican restaurant known for its vibrant flavors and cozy ambiance. Try the tacos al pastor or the house-special enchiladas with a side of fresh guacamole. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along Peck Road.
Head to Whittier Narrows Recreation Area for an early bird walk or bike ride along the paved trails. Watch native birds take flight across the water-filled basins. The sunrise over the grassy fields offers a peaceful start to your day.
Visit the nearby Arboretum at Cal State LA to explore diverse plant collections and themed garden areas. Take time to identify unique species and enjoy a quiet picnic under the shade of sprawling trees. Snap photographs of vibrant blooms and ornamental plants.
Return to El Monte and relax with a casual dinner at a park-side BBQ spot. Enjoy grilled specialties while local families gather nearby for outdoor fun. End the evening with soft music and the glow of twinkling lights overhead.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏡One-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,900-2,400/month |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4.50-6.00 |
| 🚌Monthly public transport pass | $70-100 |
| ☕Coffee to-go | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse dining and cultural experiences nearby
- Easy access to LA and SGV nature
- Limited nightlife within El Monte itself
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours and frequent parking may be challenging in busy areas
Places to Visit in El Monte
Visit one of these nice places.
Mid-century architecture framed by palm trees; great for golden-hour portraits and cityscape shots.
Water, reeds, and birds create reflective and serene compositions, especially at sunrise.
Colorful storefronts, murals, and signage offer vibrant street photography opportunities.
Open water and sky panoramas with silhouettes of people, boats, and dam structures at sunset.
Industrial-urban river views with bridges and open skies for dramatic lines.
Food in El Monte
El Monte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy, twice-fried chicken with gochujang glaze and pickled radish; widely available at casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings and savory buns served in traditional carts at local mom-and-pop restaurants.
Slow-braised meat in corn tortillas with consommé for dipping; popular in several taquerias.
Rich broth with tender beef and hand-pulled noodles at Chinese or Taiwanese spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, street snacks, and desserts from family stalls.
Pop-up stalls with a mix of Mexican, Asian and American street food options near the recreation area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or small talk is common; respect personal space and queue order.
Wait to be seated where applicable; say please and thank you; tipping is customary.
The SGV area is culturally diverse; be respectful of language and customs across cuisines and celebrations.
Safety
Tipping in El Monte
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., 15-20% is standard at restaurants; tip taxi or rideshare drivers and hotel staff.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful at markets and small eateries; mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with dry conditions; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder temperatures and light breezes; ideal for hiking and outdoor dining.
Mild, sometimes rainy; layer up and check forecasts if planning outdoor activities.
Pleasant weather and blooming foothills—great for photography and outdoor exploration.
El Monte at Night
Hiking in El Monte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hike near Azusa with a waterfall and forest scenery.
Angeles National Forest trail through pines to a waterfall.
City-adjacent hikes with sweeping city views and varied routes.
Airports
How to reach El Monte by plane.
Major international airport about 25-30 miles west of El Monte; accessible by car or ride-share.
Regional airport about 40 miles east; convenient for longer domestic and international flights.
Smaller airport in Burbank about 25-30 miles north; good for domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest groups, contributing to a vibrant local culture and cuisine.
Significant communities including Chinese, Korean, Filipino and Vietnamese residents; adds to the diverse dining landscape.
Many families live in the area, with parks and schools supporting a family-friendly vibe.
Residents commuting to LA for work, bringing urban influence to local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in schools and community leagues.
Popular across family and youth programs.
Lacuna of little leagues and park leagues in the SGV.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Monte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many markets and restaurants provide vegetarian options; ask for veggie dishes, avoid meat broths, and consider meals centered on vegetables, legumes, and grains.