· US

Lakewood

Lakewood, California, United States

Sunshine, History, and Donuts: Discover Lakewood, California Nestled in the heart of sunny Southern California, Lakewood offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience. Just a stone's throw from the b…

#Suburban#Family-friendly#Diverse#Close to beaches#Shopping

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Lakewood.

Top Hotels in Lakewood

Top Flights to Lakewood

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Lakewood.

Tours

Monte Verde Park

A beautiful park offering various recreational activities including picnic areas, playgrounds, and a serene lake.

Shopping

Lakewood Center Mall

A large shopping center featuring a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.

Outdoor

Rynerson Park Trails

A network of walking and cycling trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy nature without leaving the city.

Lakewood Equestrian Center

Experience the joy of horseback riding at the Lakewood Equestrian Center.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Lakewood.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

information not available

Languages

English, Spanish, German

Average weather

Lakewood

Jan

7°-5°

Feb

9°-4°

Mar

12°-1°

Apr

16°2°

May

21°7°

Jun

26°12°

Jul

30°15°

Aug

29°14°

Sep

25°10°

Oct

18°4°

Nov

12°-1°

Dec

8°-4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Lakewood.

What people love

Lakewood, California, located in the United States, offers several advantages for travelers:

Convenient Location: Lakewood is situated in the Greater Los Angeles area, providing easy access to popular attractions such as Disneyland, Hollywood, beaches, and more.
Shopping and Dining: Lakewood is home to Lakewood Center, one of the largest shopping malls in the region, offering a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Outdoor Recreation: The city boasts several parks and recreational facilities, including the sprawling Mayfair Park, which features sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cultural Diversity: Lakewood is known for its diverse population, offering visitors the opportunity to experience different cultural influences through its food, festivals, and events.
Family-Friendly Environment: With its safe neighborhoods, good schools, and family-friendly amenities, Lakewood is an ideal destination for families looking for a peaceful and welcoming community to explore.

Overall, traveling to Lakewood, California, can offer a mix of urban conveniences, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy.

What to know

Lakewood, California is generally considered a safe and pleasant city to visit. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to traveling to Lakewood:

Traffic congestion: Lakewood is located in the greater Los Angeles area, which is known for its heavy traffic. Travelers may encounter traffic congestion, especially during rush hours, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.
Limited public transportation: While Lakewood is served by bus routes, the public transportation system may not be as extensive or convenient as in other major cities. Renting a car may be necessary for exploring the area.
Limited tourist attractions: Lakewood is primarily a residential city with shopping centers and parks. Visitors looking for a wide range of tourist attractions may find that Lakewood has fewer options compared to nearby cities like Los Angeles or Long Beach.
Higher cost of living: California, in general, has a higher cost of living compared to other states in the U.S. Travelers may find that accommodations, dining, and entertainment in Lakewood are more expensive than in other parts of the country.
Potential for wildfires: Like much of California, Lakewood is prone to wildfires, especially during dry seasons. Travelers should be aware of any wildfire risks and follow local guidelines to stay safe.

Overall, while Lakewood has its drawbacks like any other destination, many visitors find it to be a pleasant and convenient place to visit.

Lakewood, California, is a city located in Los Angeles County. It has a rich history that reflects the broader trends in suburban development in the United States during the mid-20th century. Here's a detailed look at its history:

Early History

Pre-20th Century: The area that is now Lakewood was originally part of the vast rancho system under Spanish and Mexican rule. It was primarily used for cattle grazing and agriculture.

Development and Incorporation

1940s: After World War II, there was a significant demand for housing, driven by returning veterans and the general population growth. This demand led to the development of suburban areas across the United States, including Lakewood.
1950-1953: Lakewood became one of the first large-scale planned communities in the United States. The Lakewood Park Company, led by Louis Boyar, Mark Taper, and Ben Weingart, purchased large tracts of land to develop the area. These developers were instrumental in creating the suburb, which was designed to provide affordable housing to the burgeoning population.
1954: Lakewood was incorporated as a city on April 16, 1954. This incorporation was partly a response to the need for local governance and services, which were initially provided by Los Angeles County.

Significance

"Contract City" Model: Lakewood became known for pioneering the "contract city" model, where the city contracts out many of its municipal services to Los Angeles County. This model allowed Lakewood to maintain lower costs and taxes while providing essential services, and it has since been adopted by other cities across the U.S.
Shopping Center: One of the early significant landmarks in Lakewood was the Lakewood Center, a large shopping center that opened in 1951. It was one of the largest shopping malls in the United States at the time and played a central role in the community’s social and economic life.

Growth and Development

1960s-1980s: Lakewood continued to grow, with expansions in residential areas and commercial developments. The city maintained a strong community identity with local schools, parks, and recreational facilities.
Parks and Recreation: The city is known for its extensive parks and recreational facilities, including the popular Mayfair Park and Bolivar Park, which provide residents with various recreational opportunities.

Recent History

2000s-Present: Lakewood has focused on maintaining its suburban charm while adapting to modern needs. It has invested in infrastructure improvements and community services to support its population.

Notable Figures

While Lakewood does not have a long list of historical figures like some older cities, the developers Louis Boyar, Mark Taper, and Ben Weingart are notable for their role in the city's creation and development.

Conclusion

Lakewood, California, is an example of post-World War II suburban development, characterized by its innovative governance model and community-focused planning. Its history is marked by rapid growth, community planning, and adaptation to the needs of its residents.