Lynwood is a medium-sized city of about 69,000 people in the Los Angeles Basin in Los Angeles County. The city is mostly known for its proximity to the major city of Los Angeles and it’s world-class attractions.
Lynwood is also situated close to the cities of South Gate, Anaheim, and Compton, where many museums and cultural attractions are found. It’s also home to its own attractions and services, including many restaurants, parks, and shopping areas like Plaza Mexico, Botanica, and City Shopping Center.
The city’s location close to the ocean means that some of the best beaches in the region are only a short drive away.
Many festivals and events take place throughout the year in Lynwood, including the Lynwood Summer Festival, The Lynwood Fall Festival, and The Azalea Festival.
Below are 15 of the best things to do in and around Lynwood, California.
1. Learn About Aviation History at Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum
Source: Tomorrow's Aeronautical Museum / FacebookTomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum is where visitors of all ages can learn about the history of aviation through exhibits and hands-on experiences. The main goal of the museum is to inspire young people to look into a future in aviation and help them fulfil their dreams of one day taking to the skies.
After learning about the history, you can head to where they keep the Top Gun Flight Simulators and embark on a 30-minute adventure in an F-16-type co*ckpit. Choose from a number of simulator settings, including airfield and carrier landings.
Also on display are a variety of aircraft, including a T-33 Talon, a UH-1 Huey helicopter, military vehicles, and a duplication of the Spirit of St. Louis.
2. Head Outdoors at South Gate Park
Source: Parilov / shutterstockSouth Gate Park, only a few minutes away in nearby South Gate, is the perfect place to get away from the crowds. You can relax in an outdoor space or participate in a wide range of outdoor activities.
This vast 100-acre park has facilities for all ages, including basketball courts, a tennis court, a swimming pool, and a skate park. There are also picnic areas around the park, so you can plan to stay all day and have your lunch outdoors.
3. Shop, Eat and be Entertained at Shoreline Village
Source: Patricia Elaine Thomas / shutterstockIn nearby Long Beach, visitors to Lynwood will find a quaint little village, but this village is actually a unique shopping area filled with shops, eateries, and entertainment options.
This pedestrian shopping paradise is situated on a colourful boardwalk along the shore. As you take in the pleasant views of the harbour, browse a wide variety of boutiques, including Latin Waves and Purple House. There’s something for everyone, including art, clothing, and handcrafted jewellery.
When hunger strikes, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or cafes, such as Parker’s Lighthouse or Tequila Jack’s. There’s also a carousel and arcade.
4. Satisfy Your Hunger at La Pasta
Source: K.Jakubowska / shutterstockLa Pasta is a family-run Italian eatery in Lynwood offering fresh, time-honoured Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
Visitors to this eatery can expect to find a wide variety of items on the menu, including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, desserts, and many pasta dishes. Entrees include chicken Cognac and grilled salmon.
5. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific
Source: Wangkun Jia / shutterstockThe Aquarium of the Pacific in nearby Long Beach is a large public facility featuring more than 11,000 marine creatures native to the Pacific Ocean.
There are around 50 exhibits showcasing a variety of habitats, including the Baja Gallery, Explorer’s Cave, Shark Lagoon, Lorikeet Forest, and the Penguin Habitat.
A variety of programs and events are held throughout the year, including workshops, hands-on activities, and lectures.
6. Enjoy a Cultural Experience at the Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum
Source: Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum / FacebookThe goal of The Pacific Island Ethnic Art Museum is to showcase the cultures of the Pacific Islands through a variety of art exhibits.
The permanent collection features outstanding artworks compiled by Dr Robert Gumbiner highlighting the culture of Micronesia. The museum also hosts educational programs and events throughout the year.
7. Play a Round or Two at South Gate Golf Course
Source: Mikael Damkier / shutterstockSouth Gate Golf Course might be challenging, but it’s also suitable for golfers of all levels. This 9-hole, par 3 golf course features a driving range, putting green, and disc golf area. A snack bar is also on-site, and golf lessons and club rentals are available.
8. Escape Into Nature at El Dorado Nature Center
Source: RingDeer Enterprises / shutterstockIn the heart of the urban sprawl of Long Beach and surrounding areas is a pristine natural green space perfect for an escape from the noise and crowds. El Dorado Nature Center features scenic views and the opportunity to view local plant and animal life native to the area.
Visitors enjoy various natural features, including the San Gabriel River, streams, and forest. There are several hiking trails around the park, and a visitor’s centre is situated at the entrance. This is where visitors can find all the information they need about the park and view a variety of exhibits.
9. Take a Whale Tour with Harbour Breeze Cruises
Source: KK Stock / shutterstockA variety of marine creatures make their home offshore, and Harbour Breeze Cruises in Long Beach offers whale-watching tours aboard modern catamarans.
You’ll join the experienced crew on a safe and comfortable vessel that features a large deck for optimal viewing and an indoor lounge with a snack bar and washrooms.
As you head out to sea, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the city skyline while you search for grey whales, blue whales, orcas, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. During the tour, the crew shares information about the marine life of the area. The tours last about two hours.
10. Enjoy an Immersive Learning Experience at The California Science Center
Source: louannchin / shutterstockWhile the museum aims to engage children, visitors of all ages will find the interactive exhibits at The California Science Center fascinating.
As you make your way through the centre, you’ll see many displays about technology, nature, and inventions through the years. One exhibit focuses on ecosystems and has live marine species and plants in a giant tank. The most popular exhibit is Mission 26: The Big Endeavour, which showcases the space shuttle Endeavour.
Most of the exhibits are permanent, but a variety of temporary ones are featured throughout the year. An IMAX theatre is also on site.
11. Take a Stroll through the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
Source: SunflowerMomma / shutterstockLoraine Miller Collins developed the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden in memory of her late husband. This 1.3-acre garden’s layout mirrors the Imperial Gardens in Tokyo. As you wander the winding paths in the garden, you’ll see ponds, fountains, bridges, and beautiful flower arrangements.
A number of events take place in the garden throughout the year.
12. Admire Beautiful Artworks at the Museum of Latin American Art
Source: mark6mauno / Flickr | CC BYThe Museum of Latin American Art showcases modern Latin American artworks across four galleries. There are more than 1,300 works of art, including drawings, paintings, photos, and videos.
A large sculpture garden, film-screening room, and gift shop are also located on-site. Many events take place at the museum throughout the year.
13. Feast on Mexican Cuisine at Hacienda Mariana Restaurant
Source: Paul Cowan / shutterstockAt the Hacienda Mariana Restaurant in Lynwood, visitors sit down to a delicious meal of authentic Mexican Cuisine delivered by friendly staff in a cosy environment.
The extensive menu features a wide variety of options, including appetizers, soups, quesadillas, burritos, enchiladas, seafood dishes, desserts, and other Mexican specialities.
14. Explore the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Source: Lee Hari / shutterstockThe Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Nearby Los Angeles is a popular stop among residents and visitors who want to learn about the natural history of the area.
Billions of years of natural history are showcased across many exhibits and galleries. The natural history of California is the highlight, but there are also displays dedicated to the natural history of many locations around the planet.
As you make your way through the museum, you’ll see ancient artefacts, gemstones, minerals, and gardens. The exhibits include Becoming Los Angeles, The Discovery Center, the Insect Zoo, and the Spider Pavilion.
A favourite among visitors is the Dinosaur Hall, which showcases dinosaur fossils and skeletons. The North American Mammal Halls highlight a variety of ecosystems, including redwood forests. Through the year, some temporary exhibits are also featured.
15. Visit the Luxurious Queen Mary
Source: GagliardiImages / shutterstockIn her heydey, the Queen Mary was one of the grandest luxury ships sailing the seas. Retired since 1967, she has been docked in Long Beach ever since.
Today, the Queen Mary is a top attraction in the area, with visitors coming from all over to experience the luxury and amenities of this beautiful ocean liner.
The Queen Mary is currently home to a floating hotel, three world-class restaurants, and a spa. If you’re interested in learning about how the ship was built, her royal launch, and her years sailing the seas, guided tours are available. A tour of The Scorpion Submarine is also offered.
