Things To Do
in Temple City
Temple City is a tranquil suburb in Los Angeles County tucked in the San Gabriel Valley. It blends residential charm with a strong Asian American cultural presence and a lively local business corridor along Las Tunas Drive. The city centers around family-friendly neighborhoods, community events, and approachable dining options from nearby SGV eateries.
Visitors can easily explore the broader LA area while staying in a calm, walkable local environment.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and organic coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through Temple City's historic district, where charming architecture and lush greenery create a picturesque setting. Be sure to stop by the Temple City Historical Museum to gain insights into the city's rich past.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the many family-owned restaurants, sampling local favorites. After your meal, explore the nearby parks, where you can relax or partake in recreational activities like frisbee or picnicking. Don’t miss the chance to visit the local shops that offer unique crafts and gifts, perfect for souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a local bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in an exquisite meal made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit streets, enjoying the ambiance of the city at night. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local ice cream parlor for a sweet treat.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for an outdoor adventure. Head over to the nearby parks for nature walks, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the beautiful California landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you explore the serene trails.
After your morning hike, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park's scenic spots, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Spend the afternoon bird-watching or taking photographs of the stunning scenery, allowing yourself to immerse fully in the tranquility. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bicycle to further explore the area.
As the day winds down, visit a local winery or brewery to sample handcrafted drinks made from regional ingredients. Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a nearby restaurant, where you can share your favorite moments from the day's explorations. Finally, take a sunset drive through the hills for breathtaking views of the horizon.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠Rent (1 bedroom apartment, city center) | $1,800-2,400 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-6 |
| 🏥Doctor's visit | $80-150 |
| 🛍️Mid-range restaurant meal for two | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong culinary options within the SGV corridor
- Quiet, family-friendly neighborhoods with easy access to LA-area attractions
- Primarily car-dependent with limited dedicated nightlife in Temple City itself
- Traffic can be heavy during peak commute times in the greater LA metro area
Places to Visit in Temple City
Visit one of these nice places.
A bustling stretch with storefronts, colorful signage, and street-level activity—great for candid street photography and architectural details.
Open green space with pathways, trees, and seasonal events; ideal for lifestyle and landscape shots, especially early morning or golden hour.
Quiet residential blocks with varied architecture, creating opportunities for photography of daily life, entryways, and light play through trees.
Food in Temple City
Temple City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting bowl with braised beef, aromatic broth, and tender noodles—popular in SGV Chinese and Taiwanese spots.
Must-Try!
Steamed soup dumplings filled with savory pork and broth; best enjoyed in a dim sum or specialty shop.
Rich, soy-bright pork served over fragrant rice—common in Taiwanese-influenced eateries.
Crispy-skinned duck served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce; a staple in many Cantonese restaurants in the SGV.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large Asian supermarket offering fresh produce, dry goods, and hot prepared foods; great for snacks and quick meals.
Another major Asian market known for ingredients, snacks, and ready-to-eat stalls—perfect for exploring street-food style bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line, be patient, and avoid loud, disruptive behavior in public spaces or places of worship.
Dress modestly, remove hats when entering temples, and speak softly. Ask for photos when appropriate and always respect local signs and guidelines.
Clean up after yourself in parks and markets; it's common courtesy to greet staff with a friendly hello or thank you.
Safety
Tipping in Temple City
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tipping at restaurants typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill for good service. For counter service or quick-serve spots, tipping is optional but appreciated if service is helpful. Taxis and rideshares usually expect a tip of 10%–15%.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Many stores and restaurants also accept mobile wallets and contactless payments. In some smaller venues, cash may be preferred, so have some on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often in the 80s–90s°F (27–35°C). Stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild and pleasant; light evenings with cooler nights. Ideal for outdoor strolling and market wandering.
Generally mild with occasional rain. Pack a light jacket and be prepared for short rain showers, especially in the hills nearby.
Moderate temperatures, blooming landscaping, and many outdoor events; a great time for photography and park visits.
Temple City at Night
Hiking in Temple City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular foothill trail with a waterfall and shade; accessible for a short-to-moderate hike near Temple City.
Gentle to moderate hillside trails with scenic views; family-friendly and located a short drive from Temple City.
Iconic LA trails with expansive city views; a longer drive but a hallmark outdoor experience near the city.
Airports
How to reach Temple City by plane.
Major international airport about 25–30 miles west; best access by car or rideshare via the 105 and I-5 corridors or public transit connections from nearby hubs.
Mid-size airport about 25 miles north; convenient for domestic flights and often less crowded than LAX; access via I-5 and 134 corridors.
Regional international gateway about 28–35 miles east; good option for some domestic and limited international routes; accessible via major freeways and surface streets.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the region’s largest and most visible groups, contributing to a vibrant culinary and cultural scene.
Strong presence in SGV communities, adding to the area’s diverse food offerings.
A diverse mix reflecting LA’s broader demographics, with varying languages and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at youth, high school, and community levels; many outdoor courts and local leagues in SGV towns nearby.
A staple in local schools and parks; weekend games and tournaments are common.
Lifelong sport with organized leagues for youth and adults; parks and recreation departments host matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Temple City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many SGV Chinese and Vietnamese options feature vegetable-focused dishes, tofu, and mushrooms; when ordering, ask for no pork or seafood stock and request vegetable oil instead of lard. Look for steamed veggie plates, tofu-with-sauce entrees, and noodle soups labeled vegetarian.