Key Takeaways:
- Cerritos offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and family-friendly experiences year-round.
- From beautiful parks to engaging events, Cerritos has something for everyone, no matter the season.
- Whether you’re into art, shopping, or nature, Cerritos is a hidden gem that promises a unique and enjoyable visit.
Table of Contents:
- Visit the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
- Explore the Cerritos Sculpture Garden
- Spend the Day at Cerritos Regional Park
- Shop at the Cerritos Towne Center
- Discover the Los Cerritos Center Mall
- Hike the San Gabriel River Trail
- Enjoy a Family Day at Heritage Park
- Attend the Cerritos Library Events
- Check Out the annual Cerritos Festival
- Visit the Cerritos Farmers Market
Cerritos, California, located in the heart of Los Angeles County, is a city that blends modern amenities with cultural charm. Known for its commitment to art, green spaces, and a variety of community events, Cerritos is a destination that attracts visitors year-round. The city, once a part of the vast Rancho Los Cerritos land grant, is now a vibrant suburban area that offers something for everyone, from shopping and dining to outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or a longer stay, Cerritos provides a welcoming atmosphere for all types of travelers.
1. Visit the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
The Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) is a cultural hotspot that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. From Broadway shows and concerts to comedy acts and local productions, the CCPA brings world-class entertainment to Cerritos. The venue’s modern architecture and intimate setting create a memorable experience for every visitor. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts offers an exciting lineup of events.
In addition to its regular shows, the CCPA offers a variety of community programs and educational events, making it an important cultural resource for Cerritos residents and visitors alike. Its central location also makes it easy to combine a trip here with a visit to nearby attractions like Cerritos Towne Center or Cerritos Regional Park. If you’re in Cerritos during the performance season, be sure to check the schedule to catch a live show or event that interests you.
2. Explore the Cerritos Sculpture Garden
The Cerritos Sculpture Garden is an open-air museum that features a collection of contemporary sculptures set against the backdrop of a beautifully landscaped park. This free attraction is perfect for art lovers and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by unique artworks. The garden is open year-round, allowing visitors to explore the sculptures and enjoy the tranquil environment at their own pace. It’s a wonderful spot to relax, reflect, and experience the intersection of art and nature.
Located next to the Cerritos Library, the Sculpture Garden is easily accessible and offers a great way to spend a few hours in the fresh air. The exhibits rotate, ensuring that there’s always something new to discover, and the surrounding trees and flowers provide a scenic view that complements the art pieces. Whether you’re visiting alone or with family, the Cerritos Sculpture Garden is a must-see destination for those seeking art and serenity in one location.
3. Spend the Day at Cerritos Regional Park
Cerritos Regional Park is a vast, multi-purpose park that offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities, making it a perfect place for a day of fun and relaxation. The park features walking trails, sports fields, a lake, and picnic areas, providing something for everyone. Families can enjoy a game of frisbee, go for a walk, or simply relax by the lake while soaking in the beautiful scenery. The park is well-maintained and offers plenty of green space, making it an ideal place for a picnic or a casual afternoon stroll.
For those who enjoy more active pursuits, Cerritos Regional Park also has tennis courts, a skate park, and playgrounds, making it a great spot for kids and adults alike. The park hosts community events throughout the year, including outdoor movie nights and seasonal festivals, adding to its lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind or a location to engage in recreational activities, Cerritos Regional Park has it all, and it’s open year-round for visitors to enjoy.
4. Shop at the Cerritos Towne Center
Cerritos Towne Center is a bustling shopping, dining, and entertainment hub in the heart of Cerritos. The center offers a wide range of stores, from big-name retailers to local boutiques, providing ample opportunities for shopping enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or unique gifts, Cerritos Towne Center has a variety of options to satisfy your shopping needs. The center also features a variety of dining options, including casual eateries, coffee shops, and sit-down restaurants.
In addition to shopping and dining, Cerritos Towne Center regularly hosts events such as outdoor concerts, community festivals, and holiday celebrations, adding to the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for a quick shopping trip or planning to spend the day exploring, Cerritos Towne Center offers something for everyone. Its central location also makes it an ideal place to visit after spending time at nearby parks or attractions.
5. Discover the Los Cerritos Center Mall
The Los Cerritos Center Mall is one of the largest shopping destinations in Cerritos, featuring a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. With both high-end brands and popular chain stores, the mall offers an extensive shopping experience for all tastes and budgets. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, making it a great spot to refuel after a day of shopping. The mall also features a movie theater, providing a perfect way to relax after browsing the stores.
In addition to its retail offerings, the Los Cerritos Center Mall hosts community events, seasonal sales, and promotions, making it a lively spot to visit year-round. Its convenient location off the 605 Freeway makes it easy to access, whether you’re coming from nearby cities or just exploring Cerritos itself. With its variety of shops, entertainment, and dining options, the Los Cerritos Center Mall is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy some retail therapy while in town.
6. Hike the San Gabriel River Trail
The San Gabriel River Trail is a scenic 38-mile trail that runs through several cities, including Cerritos. This trail offers stunning views of the river, local wildlife, and surrounding landscapes, making it a popular spot for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re walking a short section or tackling the entire trail, the San Gabriel River Trail provides a peaceful escape into nature. The trail is accessible year-round, offering different experiences with each season, from lush greenery in the spring to a more serene winter landscape.
For those looking to enjoy a longer hike, the trail is ideal for an extended day out, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and enjoy a picnic. The trail also provides great opportunities for birdwatching and photography, with diverse habitats along the way. If you’re staying in Cerritos and want to explore more of the area, this trail offers an easy and beautiful way to get out into nature while staying close to the city.
7. Enjoy a Family Day at Heritage Park
Heritage Park is another family-friendly spot in Cerritos that offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. The park is home to picnic areas, playgrounds, and a serene pond, making it an ideal destination for a day with family or friends. It’s a peaceful place where visitors can enjoy a picnic, let the kids play, or simply take in the surrounding greenery. The park is well-maintained and provides a relaxing environment for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re there for a few hours or a whole day.
In addition to its recreational facilities, Heritage Park is home to the Cerritos Senior Center and a variety of community events. The park regularly hosts outdoor movie nights, fitness classes, and other seasonal activities, ensuring there’s always something fun to participate in. With its spacious layout and family-friendly amenities, Heritage Park is perfect for a relaxed day outdoors.
8. Attend the Cerritos Library Events
The Cerritos Library is not only a place to check out books but also a community hub that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From educational seminars and book signings to cultural performances and kids’ programs, the library offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The modern architecture of the library itself is a sight to behold, making it a destination even for those just looking to explore the space. If you’re interested in learning more about the community, attending one of the library’s events is a great way to connect.
The Cerritos Library also has a robust children’s program, featuring storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and educational activities that kids will love. These programs make the library a great place for families to spend time together while encouraging a love for learning. Whether you’re attending an event or simply browsing the library’s impressive collection, there’s always something happening at this cultural gem.
9. Check Out the Annual Cerritos Festival
The Cerritos Festival is one of the city’s biggest events, celebrating the community’s vibrant culture with a mix of live music, entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Held annually, this festival brings people together from all over Cerritos and neighboring cities, making it an excellent opportunity to experience local culture and traditions. Attendees can enjoy performances from local bands, dance troupes, and more, while savoring delicious food from various vendors. The festival typically takes place in the summer, but it’s a highlight of the city’s event calendar.
In addition to the performances and food, the Cerritos Festival also features arts and crafts booths, providing a great way to support local artists and pick up unique souvenirs. Whether you’re dancing to the music, exploring the food offerings, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the Cerritos Festival is a celebration that brings the whole city together. Don’t miss this fun, free event if you’re in town during the festival season.
10. Visit the Cerritos Farmers Market
The Cerritos Farmers Market is the perfect spot to pick up fresh, locally grown produce, handmade goods, and artisan products. Held regularly throughout the year, the market is a great place to shop for healthy ingredients, unique gifts, and freshly prepared meals. In addition to its food offerings, the market often features live music and local entertainment, making it a lively and enjoyable experience for all visitors. It’s an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local community and enjoy the flavors of Cerritos.
Visiting the Cerritos Farmers Market is not only a great way to support local businesses, but it’s also a wonderful way to enjoy a day outdoors. The market is a popular spot for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities and options for all tastes. Whether you’re picking up fresh produce, enjoying a snack, or browsing through the artisan booths, the Cerritos Farmers Market offers a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere year-round.
What to do if you have kids?
Cerritos is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities that kids will love. Heritage Park, with its playgrounds and picnic areas, is a great spot for outdoor fun, while the Cerritos Library offers educational programs and storytelling sessions for younger visitors. Kids can also enjoy exploring the Cerritos Sculpture Garden and attending events at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, which often features family-friendly shows. Additionally, the Cerritos Farmers Market and various community festivals provide opportunities for kids to engage with local culture in a fun and interactive way. With plenty of parks, educational activities, and events, Cerritos is a perfect family-friendly destination.
Where can I find free events in Cerritos, California taking place this weekend?
To find free events happening in Cerritos this weekend, head to Planmyweekend.ai. This easy-to-use tool helps you discover local events, including festivals, concerts, and family-friendly activities, all based on your location and interests. Simply visit the website, enter Cerritos as your destination, and browse a curated list of free events taking place in the city. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or community gatherings, Planmyweekend.ai is your go-to resource for planning a fun and affordable weekend in Cerritos.
Final Thoughts
Cerritos, California, is a city that offers a perfect balance of outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination year-round. Whether you’re enjoying a concert at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, exploring the city’s parks, or attending the Cerritos Festival, there’s always something exciting to do. With its beautiful parks, vibrant community events, and diverse attractions, Cerritos provides a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages. If you’re planning a trip to Cerritos, be sure to make time to experience everything this charming city has to offer!
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai