Points of Interest between Baldwin Park, California to Hawthorne, California

picture of Baldwin Park, California

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Baldwin Park to Hawthorne

If you're looking for a scenic drive, look no further than the route between Baldwin Park and Hawthorne, California. This short jaunt of only 20 miles will take you through a variety of landscapes, from the bustling streets of LA to the quiet suburban neighborhoods of Downey. Roughly 30 minutes in length, this drive is perfect for a quick afternoon outing or as a way to explore the area if you're passing through on a longer road trip.

Halfway Point: Downey, CA

Before diving into the unexpected places to stop along the way, we need to talk about the halfway point: Downey, CA. This city, located roughly 10 miles south of Baldwin Park and 10 miles north of Hawthorne, is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs. Take a stroll around the Chateau Inn & Suites, a picturesque French-style hotel with beautifully landscaped grounds. If you're feeling peckish, grab a bite at The Italian Cottage, a family-owned restaurant serving up classic Italian dishes with a California twist.

  1. Unusual Finds at the Downey Vons

Who would have thought that a grocery store would make a great stop on a road trip? At the Vons in Downey, you'll find an unexpected assortment of local products, from artisanal cheeses to craft beers. Don't miss the olive bar, with a wide variety of olives and antipasto items. If you're feeling indulgent, grab a sweet treat from the bakery section.

Favorite food to eat: A freshly baked chocolate croissant from the bakery.

  1. Take a Hike at Hollydale Regional Park

Get some fresh air and exercise at Hollydale Regional Park, a beautiful park with hiking trails, picnic tables, and playgrounds. The park is especially lovely in the fall, when the leaves change color and the weather cools down. Keep an eye out for wildlife, like rabbits and squirrels.

Favorite food to eat: Pack a picnic and enjoy a sandwich from The Italian Cottage.

  1. Travel Back in Time at the Columbia Memorial Space Center

Ready for an out-of-this-world experience? Head to the Columbia Memorial Space Center, a museum dedicated to space exploration and science education. The center features exhibits on everything from the Space Shuttle to Mars rovers. Visitors can also participate in interactive activities like building a rocket or driving a robot.

Favorite food to eat: A bag of astronaut ice cream from the gift shop.

  1. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at the SpeedZone

Need a break from the museums and parks? Head to SpeedZone, an amusement park with go-kart racing, miniature golf, and arcade games. Thrill-seekers will love the Top Eliminator dragster ride, while the more mild-mannered can enjoy a round of bumper boats. Whatever your speed, there's something for everyone at SpeedZone.

Favorite food to eat: A classic cheeseburger and fries from the park's snack bar.

  1. Get Cultured at the Museum of Latin American Art

End your trip on a high note by visiting the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach. This beautiful museum features a variety of exhibits showcasing Latin American art and culture. In addition to the art exhibits, the museum also hosts a variety of cultural events and performances.

Favorite food to eat: Papusas from the museum's food truck.

In conclusion, taking a short drive from Baldwin Park to Hawthorne is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of Southern California. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, indoor entertainment, or cultural enrichment, there's something for everyone on this short but sweet journey. So gather your friends or family, pack a picnic, and hit the road!