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If you’re looking for a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood in Los Angeles, look no further than Highland Park. Nestled between Pasadena and downtown LA, this historic neighborhood has something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to foodies to culture vultures. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips for making the most of your trip to Highland Park.
Top Attractions
One of the must-visit attractions in Highland Park is the Highland Park Bowl, a beautifully restored 1920s bowling alley that also serves craft cocktails and delicious food. For art lovers, the Avenue 50 Studio is a community art space that showcases local artists and hosts workshops and events. The Southwest Museum of the American Indian is also a must-visit for those interested in Native American history and culture.
Hidden Gems
One of the hidden gems of Highland Park is the York Boulevard Historic District, a charming street lined with historic bungalows, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. Another hidden gem is the Highland Park Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other local goods every Tuesday afternoon.
Food Scene
Highland Park has a thriving food scene, with everything from classic Mexican food to trendy vegan cafes. For authentic Mexican food, check out Antojitos Guerrero, a family-owned restaurant that serves delicious tacos and burritos. For vegan options, Kitchen Mouse is a popular spot that offers plant-based comfort food.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Highland Park can be an expensive neighborhood, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options. Visiting the local parks, such as Sycamore Grove Park and Ernest E. Debs Regional Park, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors for free. The Highland Park Farmers Market also offers affordable options for eating local.
Outdoor Adventures
Highland Park is surrounded by natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. The Arroyo Seco Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the city. For biking enthusiasts, the LA River Bike Path is a scenic route that runs through Highland Park and beyond.
Historical Landmarks
Highland Park is a neighborhood steeped in history, with many landmarks to explore. The Lummis House, a historic home built in the late 1800s, is now a museum that showcases the life and work of writer and activist Charles Lummis. The Highland Park Masonic Temple is another notable landmark, with its striking Art Deco architecture and rich history.
Family-Friendly Activities
Highland Park is a great neighborhood for families, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. The Kidspace Children’s Museum is a popular spot that offers hands-on exhibits and activities. The Highland Park Recreation Center also offers sports programs and classes for kids.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for something a little different, Highland Park has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. The Heritage Square Museum is a living history museum that showcases life in Los Angeles during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is another unique attraction, with beautiful gardens and a peaceful meditation garden.
Natural Wonders
Highland Park is surrounded by natural wonders, from the Arroyo Seco Canyon to the San Gabriel Mountains. The Audubon Center at Debs Park is a great spot for bird-watching and hiking, while the Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of the city and the night sky.
Vibrant Nightlife
Highland Park has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore. The Highland Park Bowl is a popular spot for craft cocktails and live music, while the Lodge Room is a trendy music venue that hosts a variety of acts.
Local Markets
Highland Park is home to several local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Highland Park Farmers Market is a popular spot for local goods, while the Highland Park Art Walk showcases the work of local artists and artisans.
Beaches and Mountains
While Highland Park is not located directly on the coast, it is still within driving distance of some of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches. Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu are all within an hour’s drive. The San Gabriel Mountains are also a short drive away, offering hiking and skiing opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
Highland Park is a neighborhood that celebrates diversity and culture. The Avenue 50 Studio is a community art space that showcases the work of Latinx artists, while the Highland Park Art Walk celebrates the neighborhood’s vibrant arts community. The Highland Park Independent Film Festival is another notable event that showcases independent films from around the world.
Art and Music Scene
Highland Park has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, venues, and events to explore. The Avenue 50 Studio and the Highland Park Art Walk are both great spots for discovering local art. The Lodge Room is a popular music venue that hosts a variety of acts, from indie rock to jazz.
Walking Tours
For those who love to explore on foot, Highland Park offers plenty of walking tours. The Highland Park Heritage Trust offers guided tours of the neighborhood’s historic architecture, while the Arroyo Seco Foundation offers nature walks and bird-watching tours.
Architectural Marvels
Highland Park is home to a variety of architectural marvels, from historic homes to modern buildings. The Lummis House and the Highland Park Masonic Temple are both notable examples of historic architecture, while the Southwest Museum of the American Indian showcases the art and architecture of Native American cultures.
Historical Sites
Highland Park is a neighborhood with a rich history, and there are many historical sites to explore. The Heritage Square Museum and the Lummis House both offer a glimpse into life in Los Angeles during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Southwest Museum of the American Indian is another notable historical site, with its extensive collection of Native American artifacts.
Biking Routes
Highland Park is a great neighborhood for biking, with plenty of bike-friendly routes to explore. The LA River Bike Path is a popular route that runs through Highland Park and beyond, while the Arroyo Seco Trail offers scenic views of the city.
Wellness Retreats
For those looking to unwind and relax, Highland Park has several wellness retreats to choose from. The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is a peaceful meditation garden with beautiful gardens and a tranquil atmosphere. The Highland Park Yoga Tree offers a variety of yoga classes and workshops for all levels.
Adventure Sports
Highland Park is a neighborhood that celebrates adventure, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor sports and activities. The Arroyo Seco Trail is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the city, while the LA River Bike Path is a scenic route for biking enthusiasts. For those looking for something more extreme, there are several rock climbing gyms in the area.
With so much to see and do in Highland Park, it’s no wonder that it’s become one of LA’s hottest neighborhoods. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Highland Park.