Top Five Popular Attractions to See Between Cerritos and Whittier, California
Are you itching for an adventure? Do you need a quick getaway within Southern California? Look no further than Cerritos and Whittier! These two cities offer a great stretch of land to explore, rich in history, culture, and entertainment. In this article, we will highlight the top five popular attractions to see when embarking on this quick weekend trip.
The Route and Halfway Point: Downey, CA
Before we dive into the top five places to visit, let's chat a bit about the route. This stretch between Cerritos and Whittier is relatively small, and the best way to get started is to hop onto the I-605 North. Within 7 miles, you'll find yourself in the city of Downey, our halfway point for this trip.
Downey may seem like any other LA suburb at first glance. However, it has deep roots in aerospace and aviation history. Downey boasts of the Columbia Memorial Space Center, a hands-on museum dedicated to space and technology. Visitors of all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits, space artifacts, and simulated space missions. It's a perfect stop to ease in your weekend getaway.
Top Five Places to See
- The Pio Pico State Historic Park
Located in Whittier, the Pio Pico State Historic Park is an enchanting park with a long history. The park is in honor of Pio Pico, the last governor of California under Mexican rule. Visitors can take in the park's lush greenery while learning about the history of the area. The park offers docent-led tours and living history events that showcase California life during the Mexican period.
- The Cerritos Sculpture Garden
When you think of Southern California, you're probably already imaging palm trees, sunny beaches, and picturesque sunsets. Well, the Cerritos Sculpture Garden embodies all of those elements and more. Located right in the heart of Cerritos, the sculpture garden provides an oasis for passersby to take a breather from their daily routine. The garden has more than 20 sculptures crafted by talented artists from all over the world. It's perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers.
- The Whittier Antique Faire
If you're looking for something quirky and exciting to do on the third Saturday of the month, look no further than the Whittier Antique Faire. Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, and more than 200 vendors selling unique vintage pieces. From furniture and decor to clothing and collectibles, there's something for everyone at the faire. This event is perfect for those looking to do something different while also uncovering hidden treasures.
- The Cerritos Center for Performing Arts
For all you culture enthusiasts out there, the Cerritos Center for Performing Arts should be at the top of your list. The center boasts a range of stage productions all year round, from Broadway musicals and local comedians to live symphony orchestras and dance performances. The center's acoustics, lighting, and stage are unmatched. It's a perfect stop for a fun night out on the town.
- The Whittier Greenway Trail
Suppose you're looking for a chance to burn off those extra calories from the delicious food you've been eating. In that case, the Whittier Greenway Trail is a must-visit spot. The trail spans over 4.5 miles and is a perfect spot for runners, walkers, and bikers alike. The trail has beautiful scenery, including local art installations and beautiful greenery. It's a perfect spot to get in a workout while also exploring some lesser-known parts of Whittier.
Conclusion
And with that, our whirlwind tour of Cerritos and Whittier comes to a close. In less than 30 miles, you can explore California's rich history, embrace culture, and enjoy some fun in the sun. If you're looking for the best route for this trip, take the I-605 North to Downey, then continue on to Whittier. From there, you can make a smooth loop back down to Cerritos. We hope this list inspires you to get out and explore what California has to offer. Safe travels!