Things To Do
in Pico Rivera
Pico Rivera is a compact, family-oriented suburb in southeastern Los Angeles County with a strong sense of community and a mix of residential neighborhoods. The city reflects a rich Mexican-American heritage through its eateries, festivals, and local life. It sits just east of Whittier and offers convenient access to both downtown Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley.
With predominantly warm, sunny weather for much of the year and a relaxed pace of life, Pico Rivera serves as a practical base for exploring greater LA while staying close to home.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Pico Rivera Historical Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area through fascinating exhibits. After immersing yourself in local history, take a leisurely stroll around the nearby Pico Rivera Sports Arena, appreciating its vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Pico Rivera Plaza for some shopping and to experience the local culture. Explore the various boutiques and shops, picking up unique souvenirs and artisanal goods. Grab lunch at a local taqueria, feasting on delicious tacos and fresh guacamole.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Pico Rivera Sports Arena for a lively event or concert, often featuring local artists. After the show, relax at a nearby restaurant where you can enjoy dinner with friends or family, surrounded by the warm and inviting ambiance. Cap off your evening with a casual stroll through the plaza, enjoying the community vibe.
Begin your morning with a visit to the nearby Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, where you can immerse yourself in nature and observe local wildlife. Enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride along the trails while taking in the scenic views of the lakes and surrounding hills. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy in one of the serene spots amidst the trees.
Afterward, spend time at the nature center, where you can learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife that call this area home. Take part in a guided nature walk, where a knowledgeable ranger will share insights about the flora and fauna of the region. Stop for lunch at a local deli before heading back to Pico Rivera.
In the evening, unwind at a local park, such as Pico Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or engage in some outdoor sports. Take your time to appreciate the beautiful sunset views while relaxing on a park bench. Finish your day with a casual dinner at a nearby family-friendly restaurant, enjoying classic American or Mexican cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,600-2,200 |
| 🚌Monthly public transit pass | $70-100 |
| 🛒Grocery bill for one month | $250-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Los Angeles attractions
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Diverse food scene with strong Mexican influence
- Reasonable costs for the LA area
- Quiet, small-city feel
- Limited direct rail transit within Pico Rivera
- Traffic congestion on major freeways
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to central LA
- Limited high-end dining options within city limits
Places to Visit in Pico Rivera
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-angle views across the San Gabriel Valley from elevated trails, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Water reflections, birds, and city silhouettes—great for tranquil dawn or golden-hour shots.
Colorful murals, storefronts, and neighborhood life that capture the suburb’s character and everyday moments.
Food in Pico Rivera
Pico Rivera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork tacos with pineapple, onions, cilantro, and a tangy salsa—a staple at many taquerias.
Must-Try!
Fries topped with grilled carne asada, cheese, guacamole, crema, and pico de gallo—a popular LA-area street-food fusion.
Rich, slow-cooked meat in a flavorful consommé, often served as tacos with dipping broth.
Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, battered and fried until golden.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce stalls and regional snacks along Pico Rivera’s commercial corridors, with opportunities to sample tortillas, salsas, and street-side bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello, small talk, and a smile go a long way; using basic Spanish phrases is appreciated in many spots.
Tipping is customary for service workers; be mindful of standard expectations.
Respect residential spaces, keep noise reasonable, and observe personal space in public areas.
Safety
Tipping in Pico Rivera
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, 15–20% is standard for restaurant service; tips are customary for other service roles as well.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and cash; mobile payments are increasingly common; ATMs are widespread.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flora; ideal for outdoor markets, parks, and photography.
Hot, dry days with plenty of sunshine; hydrate, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for morning or evening.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; excellent light for city and landscape photography.
Mild and relatively dry; cool evenings with occasional rain—pack a light jacket and be prepared for cooler mornings.
Pico Rivera at Night
Hiking in Pico Rivera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails with rolling hills offering city views and native plant life; suitable for all levels.
Scenic ridge trails with panoramic LA Basin vistas and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Waterways and park trails around the reservoir; easy to moderate hikes with shaded areas.
Airports
How to reach Pico Rivera by plane.
Major international hub about 25–40 miles from Pico Rivera; access via I-105 or I-5 with typical LA-area traffic.
Smaller regional airport about 25–40 miles away; often easier to navigate than LAX.
Orange County airport about 35–50 miles away; good for domestic flights and shorter security lines.
Ontario airport about 40–60 miles away; improving connections to western U.S.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group; strong cultural influence in language, cuisine, and festivals.
Non-Hispanic White residents and dual-heritage families contribute to the local culture.
A smaller but growing community that adds to the city’s diversity.
Various immigrant backgrounds enriching local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular recreational activity and spectator sport; local courts are common in parks.
Youth and adult leagues thrive in community parks and schools.
Little league and adult leagues are active in local parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pico Rivera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for bean-based dishes, grilled vegetables, and cheese-filled options; many spots can accommodate meat-free substitutions with advance notice.