22 Best Things To Do In Norwalk, California

things to do in norwalk ca
Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 10 min read

Located in Los Angeles, Norwalk is a charming suburban city that is known for being the service point for ranching, dairying, and logging. Here you’ll also find the largest sugar beet farms in California. Its abundance of parklands and recreational areas make it an ideal place to start a family. Just like other cities in California, it also boasts of excellent restaurants, fantastic retail shops, and lots of other businesses. While in the city, be sure to take your family for a memorable time at the Golf N’ Stuff. Also, be sure to visit the marvelous Sanatan Dharma Temple. You can not end your Norwalk vacation without visiting the Hathaway Ranch Museum and get a glimpse of the authentic Southern California history. For a more in-depth guide, here is a list of fantastic things to do in Norwalk, California.

1. Shop till you drop at Norwalk Shopping Center

Norwalk Town Square Shopping Center sign in Norwalk California
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Northwalker used under CC0

Feeling stressed or bored? Why not turn a regular afternoon to a fantastic shopping and dining spree at the Norwalk Shopping Center? It is a bustling shopping district in California that features fantastic retail shops, dining options, salons, barber shops, and recreational areas. It has a Starbucks cafe where you can order your favorite frappe after shopping to your hearts’ content. Plus, it has a spacious parking lot for customers traveling by their cars. It is a fantastic place to hang out with your friends or spend some me-time.

Norwalk Shopping Center

Address: Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

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2. Admire the artwork at Mary Paxon Art Gallery

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Located in Clarkdale Ave, Mary Paxton Art Gallery is a modern art gallery that is a testament to the city’s vibrant art scene. Available to the public for free, this gallery in the Cultural Arts Center features breathtaking masterpieces from locals and regional artists. Mostly paintings, the gallery serves as a venue for talents to showcase their craft. Another cool thing about the Mary Paxton Art Gallery is that they always welcome fresh talent and those who need a venue for their artworks to be seen and appreciated. If you have a deep appreciation for art, you must visit this superb art gallery when you visit Norwalk.

Mary Paxon Art Gallery

Address: 13200 Clarkdale Ave, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Mary Paxon Art Gallery

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 3pm - 7pm; Sat: 11am - 3pm; (closed on Sun - Mon)

Price: Free entry

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3. Chill at Vista Verde Park

Vista Verde Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Northwalker used under CC0

Vista Verde Park is a small community park in Norwalk. It is a fantastic place for locals and tourists to spend some relaxing time to unwind in a peaceful and serene setting. With shady trees and lovely plants adorning the park, lots of people come to it to have a picnic bonding with their family or have their kids play in this safe green space. Also, it has a basketball court that everyone is free to use. In addition, it is also a wonderful place to exercise and have your routine cardio.

Vista Verde Park

Address: 11459 Ratliffe St, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Vista Verde Park

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12am - 7:30pm; Sun: 7:30am - 7:45pm

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4. Tour the unique D.D. Johnston- Hargitt House Museum

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

One of the many fascinating landmarks and historical sites you’ll find in Norwalk is the D.D. Johnston- Hargitt House Museum in Mapledale Street. Built in the 1890s, this charming house once belonged to one of the first families in the city - the Johnstons. Playing a significant role in the education system of the city, D.D. Johnston had been an icon and a prominent person in Norwalk. His house, the Hargitt House is made of Redwood, featuring a gorgeous Victorian design. This house is a testament to the lavish life of the rich Norwalk resident during the 18th-century.

D.D. Johnston- Hargitt House Museum

Address: 12426 Mapledale St, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Hargitt House

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5. Watch a Marvel movie at AMC Norwalk 20

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Been waiting for the next Marvel Cinematic Universe film or a romantic Nicholas Sparks novel turned movie? Well, there’s one place in Norwalk where you can enjoy it when it hits cinemas, the AMC Norwalk 20 at Civic Center Drive. In a cozy and comfortable setting with modern big screens and excellent audio, you will surely feel every bit of emotion portrayed by the actors as you watch them from your seats. Not to mention, it has an excellent snack bar where you can buy classic theatre snacks like popcorns, candies, and drinks. Check their website to see the list of the present shows they have and the schedule.

AMC Norwalk 20

Address: 12300 E, Civic Center Dr, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: AMC Norwalk 20

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6. Refuel your energy at Talias Coffee & Churro

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Done with all the sightseeing and museum visits? Why not pause for a while to refuel your energy at the Talias Coffee & Churro. Located in Civic Center Drive, this charming cafe features a relaxing bright furnishing and a cool and airy ambiance. It offers excellent hot and cold beverages from black coffee to frappuccinos to lattes and more. Not to mention, the churros and other sweet tweets are other reasons to dine in Talias Coffee & Churro. Plus, you will be impressed with how Instagram-worthy these food are presented when they bring it to your table.

Talias Coffee & Churro

Address: 12200 Civic Center Dr #G, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Talias Coffee & Churro

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 7am -9pm; Fri: 7am - 10pm; Sat: 12pm - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 9pm

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7. Hold a special event at Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex is a modern recreational area and events place in Norwalk. It has one of the most comprehensive and affordable fitness centers in all of the city that is spacious enough for lots of fitness enthusiasts, a basketball court, art rooms, and more. If you have a special occasion to celebrate, such as birthdays, weddings and anniversaries, the Norwalk Art and Sports Complex has a spacious function hall that is available for rent. Not just that, but it also has a charming outdoor setting for informal events.

Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex

Address: 13000 Clarkdale Ave, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8am - 9pm; Fri: 8am - 8pm; Sat: 8am - 6pm; (closed on Sun)

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8. Check out the exhibits at Norwalk Cultural Arts Center

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Located in Clarkdale Ave, the Norwalk Cultural Art Center is the city government office in Norwalk, California and a recreational area offering various classes and workshops that residents and non-residents can participate in. Here you’ll find the fascinating Mary Paxon Art Gallery, that showcases artworks from local and regional talents. Visit the Norwalk Cultural Arts Center and have a quality bonding time with your kids with arts and crafts programs.

Norwalk Cultural Arts Center

Address: 13200 Clarkdale Ave, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Norwalk Cultural Arts Center

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9. Savor a bite of flavorful pizza at So Cal Pizza

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Craving for some delicious pizza? Be it Hawaiian, Meat Lovers or Pepperoni, So Cal Pizza is a fantastic destination for you. Offering a plethora of flavors from the classic ones to the specialty ones, such as Pollo Alfredo, The Italian, Pastrami, and more, a bite from their pizzas will surely melt your heart. Not only that, aside from pizza, they also offer pasta dishes, sandwiches, salads, and more. Be it for a snack or a heavy lunch or dinner, gorge on delicious Italian food with an American touch at So Cal Pizza.

So Cal Pizza

Address: 12253 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: So Cal Pizza

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm

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10. Dine at Casa Adelita

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Looking for a place to have a mini get together with some friends? Why not try the vibes and the food at Casa Adelita? Located in Rosecrans Avenue, the restaurant features a charming decor with rustic interior design, festive vibes, and a homey ambiance. Serving delicious food served in generous portions, at very reasonable pricing, lots of locals love dining in Casa Adelita. Plus, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks are also available to pair with your mouthwatering food. During the night, live music adds entertainment to the dining experience at the restaurant.

Casa Adelita

Address: 12842 Rosecrans Ave, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Casa Adelita

Opening hours: 8am - 12am (daily)

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11. Take a dip in the waters at Aquatic Pavilion

Swimmers
Source: Photo by user Kathleen used under CC BY 2.0

Visiting Norwalk with your family? While in the city, be sure to take your kids to Aquatic Pavilion. This fantastic recreational area is a destination for water babies. It offers a gorgeous and vast pool where you can swim all day and make friends with other swimmers. Swimming lessons and aquatic workouts are also available for interested guests. Just be sure to have your swimwear ready at the Aquatic Pavilion is sort of strict about their policies. Nevertheless, it is a fabulous place to bond with the family.

Aquatic Pavilion

Address: 12301 Sproul St, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Aquatic Pavilion

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5:30am - 10pm; Sat: 8am - 6pm; Sun: 8am - 5pm

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12. Enjoy a rocking party at Torch Room Lounge

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Are you a social butterfly or a typical millennial who likes trying out hangout places for social media accounts? If so, the Torch Room Lounge must be on your list of places to try in Norwalk. This relaxed and dimly lit restaurant and sports bar boast of a laid back rustic interior design. It is popular among locals for its food, drinks, and entertainment. It features a couple of pool tables and dartboards that everyone can take advantage of. Invite your friends for some casual drinking one weekend night in Norwalk at Torch Room Lounge.

Torch Room Lounge

Address: 10632 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Torch Room Lounge

Opening hours: 8am - 2am (daily)

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13. Bring your pets for a walk at Robert White Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Situated in Hoxie Ave, the Robert White Park is a vast green space that is a popular recreational area among locals. Located in a peaceful and quiet area, this place has a fantastic playground where kids can slide and swing all day long. Aside from that, it has designated seating areas under shady trees. If you are looking for a place to have your routine cardio or bring your pets for a walk, Robert White Park is a fantastic choice.

Robert White Park

Address: 12120 Hoxie Ave, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Robert White Park

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14. Go bowling at Keystone Lanes

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Thinking of a fun thing to do with friends one travel-free afternoon? Challenge them to a few rounds of bowling at Keystone Lanes. This fantastic modern bowling alley in Norwalk is a popular hangout place for people of all ages. Featuring cosmic bowling lanes that add charm to the place, settle some old score or reclaim your bragging rights from your friends. It also has a charming lounge area with karaoke and live DJs. If you get hungry, you can always help yourself to delicious snacks at the snack bar. If you’re not into bowling, there is a game room with lots of pool table that you can take advantage of.

Keystone Lanes

Address: 11459 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Keystone Lanes

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15. Drop by Norwalk Town Square for shopping

Norwalk Town Square Shopping Center sign in Norwalk California
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Northwalker used under CC0

Done with all the sightseeing and touristy stuff? Do you feel like you deserve a treat just for doing household chores? Well, it is always the day to pamper yourself. Drop by the Norwalk Town Square and shop till you drop with a wide array of retail stores, boutiques, and other businesses in this bustling shopping district. Also, it has excellent restaurants and cafes where you can chill and gorge on delicious bites. Plus, it has an affordable yet modern and cozy movie theatre where you can watch recent movies after shopping and dining.

Norwalk Town Square

Address: 11633 The Plaza, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Norwalk Town Square

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16. Engage in arcade games at Golf ‘n’ Stuff

More Arcade Games
Source: Photo by user Steven Miller used under CC BY 2.0

Golf N’ Stuff in Firestine Boulevard is a paradise of games for kids and kids at heart. It boasts of a delightful 18-hole mini-golf course that will challenge the pro golfer in you. Aside from that, it has go-karts and exciting rides that you should try while in this exceptional amusement park. Relive your childhood hobbies by playing in the arcade section, featuring classic games, such as Pac-Man, Galaga, Asteroids, the Centipede, and more. It is a fun place to go to with your family or friends, and even during romantic dates.

Golf ‘n’ Stuff

Address: 10555 Firestone Blvd, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Golf ‘n’ Stuff

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 12am

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17. Offer a prayer at Sanatan Dharma Temple

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

You can not end your Norwalk vacation without dropping by the Sanatan Dharma Temple and offering some prayers of thanks and well wishes. This charming Hindu Temple is located in the heart of the city. It showcases a modern and peaceful place of worship with stunning Hindu figures and sculptures that seem like listening to you as you deliver your message. Aside from that, this temple holds events that are relevant to the Hindus.

Sanatan Dharma Temple

Address: 15311 Pioneer Blvd, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Sanatan Dharma Temple

Opening hours: Mon: 8am - 12pm, 5pm - 8pm; Tue - Sun: 8am - 8pm

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18. Relax and enjoy at Zimmerman Park

John Zimmerman Park, Norwalk, CA, at Sunset
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Northwalker used under CC0

If your idea of a lovely afternoon is one that is spent at the park with your family, you might want to take your family to Zimmerman Park in Shoemaker Ave. It is a charming green space with lots of amenities that provide its guests with various activities to enjoy. You may bring some snacks and spend an afternoon bonding with your family at the picnic area of Zimmerman Park. Also, it has barbecue facilities to make the picnic a lovelier one. In addition, it has excellent walking and jogging trails and a baseball field for fitness and sports enthusiasts. Benches scattered throughout the park for those who just want to unwind for a while and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Zimmerman Park

Address: 13031 Shoemaker Ave, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Zimmerman Park

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19. Take a walk around Gerdes Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Another fantastic park where you can bring your family for quality time is the one in Girdley Road - Gerdes Park. with lots of shady trees, this vast open space exudes relaxing and serene vibes which makes it a lovely place to unwind and relax. One of its features is an excellent playground where your kids can run around and play safely or slide and swing to their hearts’ content. Also, it has basketball courts for everyone who wants to play some ball.

Gerdes Park

Address: 14700 Gridley Rd, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Gerdes Park

Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)

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20. Admire the pine trees at Westside Park

Pine tree
Source: Pexels

Westside Park is one of the many charming and peaceful recreational areas in Norwalk. Adorned by lush pine trees and lovely views, you will surely have your much-desired peace of mind here. Just like most of the parks in the city, Westside Park also has a playground for the kids to enjoy. It also has basketball courts and a vast open space where sporty events in the city take place. It is also a superb place to have your morning and afternoon runs as it is spacious.

Westside Park

Address: Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: Westside Park

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8am - 8pm; Fri: 8am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 6pm

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21. Unleash your inner social butterfly at IV Private Party Lounge

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Planning a surprise bachelorette party for your best friend or a birthday party for yourself? How about a corporate function with your colleagues? Whatever the occasion is, the IV Private Party Lounge is a fantastic venue for any celebration. It is spacious and has enough room for big parties and corporate events. It is a hip nightclub with high-energy music to amp up the party experience. You can take advantage of the dance floor, rent vast function rooms, and stay intimate with a smaller private room enough for you and your invitees.

IV Private Party Lounge

Address: 12500 Firestone Blvd, Norwalk, CA 90650, USA

Website: IV Private Party Lounge

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22. Appreciate the displays at Cerritos College Art Gallery

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Are you an artist, a budding talent or a regular Tom with a curious mind and a deep appreciation for art? Whoever you are, you are welcome to marvel at the beauty and the intricacy of the displays at Cerritos College Art Gallery. Situated in Cerritos Community Clg District, this charming museum showcases fascinating paintings, sculptures, and even pieces of furniture. Plus, it holds events and exhibits that you might be interested to participate in. Check out their website to see the upcoming events that might pique your interest.

Cerritos College Art Gallery

Address: Cerritos Community Clg District

Website: Cerritos College Art Gallery

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 11am - 7pm; Wed - Fri: 11am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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Have a lovely vacation in the charming Norwalk City

Norwalk City Hall, Norwalk, CA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Northwalker used under CC0

This charming suburban city in California features an abundance of parkland, recreational areas, and fantastic attractions. It is also a fantastic place to start a family with its safe and peaceful vibes and booming commerce. If you are planning to visit this side of California anytime soon, use this list of fantastic things to do in the city as your guide in planning an itinerary. Have a delightful vacation ahead.

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