Things To Do
in Monterey Park
Monterey Park is a dense, vibrant suburb just east of downtown Los Angeles known for its strong Asian American communities and family-friendly neighborhoods. The city blends classic Southern California suburban charm with a lively strip of shops, markets, and eateries along Garvey Avenue. Visitors can explore diverse dining options, tranquil parks, and easy access to the broader San Gabriel Valley.
With convenient freeway connections and nearby transit, Monterey Park serves as a convenient base for LA day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and a pastry. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, admiring the charming architecture and quaint shops. Visit the local museum to learn about the rich history of Monterey Park and its cultural significance.
For lunch, indulge in some authentic Chinese cuisine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants in the area. Post-lunch, explore the beautiful parks in Monterey Park, such as Garvey Ranch Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk or relax by the pond. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby shops for some unique souvenirs and local crafts.
As evening falls, head to a local eatery for dinner, where you can try a fusion of traditional and modern dishes. After dinner, find a cozy spot to enjoy the sunset and take in the beautiful views of the San Gabriel Valley. Wrap up the night with a visit to a local dessert shop for some refreshing boba tea or ice cream.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, where you can enjoy classic American breakfast staples. Afterward, visit the Monterey Park Farmers' Market, brimming with fresh produce and local delicacies, allowing you to taste the vibrant flavors of the region. Engage with local farmers and artisans while sampling their offerings.
For lunch, grab a bite at one of the food stalls in the market, sampling various international cuisines. Spend your afternoon taking a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes from the diverse cultures represented in Monterey Park. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local food scene.
Dine at a top-rated restaurant known for its innovative dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll through the lively streets of Monterey Park, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and checking out any local events or performances. End your evening at a cozy café, enjoying a cup of tea or coffee while reflecting on your culinary adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Two people at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏡One-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $1,800-2,400 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4-6 |
| 📶Internet per month | $50-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Los Angeles with convenient access to multiple transit options
- Rich, diverse dining and strong Asian American communities
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and abundant park spaces
- Gateway to the San Gabriel Valley’s culture and nature
- Limited nightlife within Monterey Park itself; bigger options nearby
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
- Parking can be challenging on busy streets
- Some attractions require short drives to neighboring cities
Places to Visit in Monterey Park
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, signs, and people at street level provide vibrant, candid photography opportunities throughout the day.
Modernist architecture with clean lines and landscaped terraces ideal for architectural shots and portraits.
Colorful entry arches and courtyards along the main corridors make great photo spots at golden hour.
Short drives to nearby San Gabriel Mountains offer cityscape silhouettes at dusk.
Food in Monterey Park
Monterey Park Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Cantonese brunch staple—steamed dumplings, buns, and small plates; commonly found in many Chinese eateries along Garvey Ave.
Must-Try!
Marinated beef short ribs grilled at the table; many Korean spots around the Monterey Park–Alhambra corridor.
Stir-fried flat rice noodles with beef and vegetables; a staple at Chinese restaurants in the area.
Aromatic beef and noodle soups with herbs; several Vietnamese restaurants in the vicinity.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Several Asian markets, fruit stands, and ready-to-eat bites along the main corridor.
On weekend evenings, small vendors offer fried snacks, noodles, and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Monterey Park is culturally diverse; be respectful in markets, temples, and family-run businesses. Ask before photographing people and cultural objects, and queue patiently in busy spaces.
English is common, but Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, and Spanish are widely spoken; a polite greeting goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Monterey Park
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, typical tip is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; a service charge may apply for large groups in some places. Tips can be given in cash or added to the credit card payment.
Most establishments accept cash, major credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry days with plenty of sun; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan indoor breaks during peak heat hours.
Mild to cool temperatures with occasional rain; light layers and a compact umbrella are handy.
Pleasant weather with blooming landscapes; great for outdoor strolls and photos, though pollen can be high.
Monterey Park at Night
Hiking in Monterey Park
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular, moderate 3.3-mile round-trip trail with canyon scenery and a small waterfall; good for a half-day excursion.
Iconic city overlook with sweeping skyline views; a longer hike that rewards with vantage points over LA.
A range of shorter and longer trails within a short drive, offering canyon scenery and forested landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Monterey Park by plane.
Major international hub about 25-35 miles west; multiple ground transportation options to Monterey Park.
Alternative airport in the San Fernando Valley, ~25-40 miles away depending on route.
Airport in Ontario serving the Inland Empire; typically 40-50 miles east, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large concentrations of Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Filipino residents, contributing to the city’s cultural and culinary landscape.
A significant presence that enriches the area’s cultural and culinary diversity.
A mix of backgrounds that shapes local neighborhoods, schools, and businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools, parks, and local leagues; many community centers host pickup games.
Common in youth and adult leagues at parks and recreation facilities.
Public courts and club facilities are available for casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monterey Park.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made vegetarian or easily adapted with tofu, vegetables, and noodle options; ask for no meat or fish sauce and request oil-light preparations.