Whittier California
Whittier, CA: A city blending vintage charm, unique antique shopping, and a vibrant, diverse food scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Swap meets and markets buzz with activity.
Whittier California
Best Time
Swap meets and markets buzz with activity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Whittier, CA: A city blending vintage charm, unique antique shopping, and a vibrant, diverse food scene.
"Whittier's vibe is part suburb, part time capsule, and part you better know someone at City Hall."
🚗 Car is King
Whittier is best explored by car due to spread-out attractions and limited public transit.
💰 Nail Deals
Find affordable full-set nail services with intricate designs for a great price.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rodeo 72 Public Market
7012 Walnut Grove Dr
A vibrant food hall in a former juvenile hall, offering diverse culinary delights.
King Richard's Antique Center
12300 Whittier Blvd
Explore a massive three-story antique mall in a former citrus packing house.
Whittier Boulevard
Whittier Boulevard
The heart of the city, featuring local businesses, eateries, and a distinct vintage vibe.
Friendly Hills Country Club
8500 Villa Verde Dr
Experience a challenging round of golf with scenic views on this notable course.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Whittier's Charm
Local Insights & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is King
Whittier is best explored by car due to spread-out attractions and limited public transit.
💰 Nail Deals
Find affordable full-set nail services with intricate designs for a great price.
🛍️ Vintage Treasures
King Richard's is a must-visit for unique finds in a massive antique mall.
🍔 Food Hall Fun
Rodeo 72 offers a diverse range of food vendors in a unique setting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is King
Whittier is best explored by car due to spread-out attractions and limited public transit.
💰 Nail Deals
Find affordable full-set nail services with intricate designs for a great price.
🛍️ Vintage Treasures
King Richard's is a must-visit for unique finds in a massive antique mall.
🍔 Food Hall Fun
Rodeo 72 offers a diverse range of food vendors in a unique setting.
👻 Halloween Spirit
While Lisco Street's drive-thru is paused, the city still embraces festive decorations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Whittier is often praised for its unique vintage charm, particularly its antique shopping and historic feel. Visitors appreciate the diverse and affordable food options, especially at the Rodeo 72 Public Market. However, some reviews mention that certain areas can feel dated, and occasional concerns about safety or upkeep have been raised in social media discussions.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whittier is accessible by car via major freeways like the 605 and 60. Public transportation options include bus routes, but a car is recommended for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
Yes, Whittier is located southeast of downtown Los Angeles, making it a convenient suburban option for those working or visiting the greater LA area. Travel time can vary depending on traffic.
Having a car is highly recommended for navigating Whittier and its various attractions, as public transportation can be limited.
While not a primary destination for scenic drives, exploring the local streets reveals charming neighborhoods and the historic Whittier Boulevard.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Whittier, offering an alternative to driving yourself, especially for evenings out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most attractions in Whittier, like antique malls and food halls, do not require tickets for entry. Some specific events or venues might have admission fees.
Rodeo 72 is typically open Sunday to Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm. It's always a good idea to check their latest hours before visiting.
King Richard's Antique Center is free to enter, allowing visitors to browse its extensive collection of antiques and vintage items.
Local parks in Whittier are generally open to the public without specific entry requirements or fees, though park hours should be observed.
Friendly Hills Country Club is a private club, and access may be limited to members or guests. It's best to inquire directly with the club about visitor policies or public play days.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Whittier is known for its historic charm, a strong sense of community, and unique local businesses like antique shops and diverse food halls. It also has a notable vintage shopping scene.
Explore King Richard's Antique Center, dine at Rodeo 72 Public Market, stroll down Whittier Boulevard, and enjoy the local culinary scene. Golfing at Friendly Hills CC is also an option.
Yes, Whittier offers unique shopping experiences, particularly at King Richard's Antique Center for vintage finds and various local boutiques along Whittier Boulevard.
Whittier has a vibe that's a mix of suburban, historic, and community-focused. It's often described as a cozy town with a strong local identity.
While specific attractions might cater to adults, places like Rodeo 72 Public Market offer diverse food options that can appeal to families. Local parks also provide recreational space.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss the Al Pastor Torta, diverse offerings at Rodeo 72 Public Market, and BBQ from Steve's BBQ. Frisco's Carhop offers classic diner fare.
Sol 626 Latin Kitchen offers Oaxacan-inspired dishes, and Taqueria El Poblano is known for its Al Pastor Torta.
Rodeo 72 Public Market is a unique food hall located in a former juvenile hall, offering a variety of vendors. Frisco's Carhop provides a nostalgic 50s carhop drive-thru experience.
Sol 626 Latin Kitchen serves breakfast until 2 PM, and Casa de Café is a local coffee shop that's a great spot for a morning bite.
Steve's BBQ is a highly recommended spot in Whittier, known for its 16-hour smoked brisket.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vintage charm of Whittier Boulevard, the unique architecture of Rodeo 72 Public Market, and the eclectic interiors of King Richard's Antique Center.
The golf course itself offers scenic views, particularly the approach to the 18th hole, making it a picturesque location for golf enthusiasts.
Photography focusing on vintage aesthetics, local businesses, and community events is popular. The city's historic architecture also provides great backdrops.
Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from staff before taking extensive photos inside antique shops like King Richard's.
Whittier Boulevard itself, with its diverse storefronts and historic buildings, serves as a central landmark. The unique setting of Rodeo 72 is also a strong visual.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a unique experience, Frisco's Carhop Drive-Thru offers a fun, nostalgic dining option with food delivered by staff on skates, which can be entertaining for children. While the city's vintage charm might appeal more to adults, the accessible food options and community feel make it a pleasant stop for families looking for a quieter Southern California experience.
🛍️ Budget Travelers & Shoppers
Dining can also be budget-friendly. Exploring the diverse vendors at Rodeo 72 Public Market allows you to sample various foods without committing to a single expensive meal. Many local eateries and cafes offer reasonably priced options, making it possible to enjoy the local flavors without overspending. The general atmosphere of Whittier is more laid-back and less tourist-driven, which often translates to more accessible prices for goods and services.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
For golf enthusiasts, Friendly Hills Country Club provides a scenic golfing opportunity. The city's relatively compact nature makes it easy to explore key attractions within a day, offering a break from the hustle and bustle of larger nearby cities. Remember that having a car is beneficial for maximizing your time and seeing the various parts of Whittier efficiently.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Whittier's Vintage Charm
For those who love to hunt for treasures, King Richard's Antique Center is an absolute must-visit. Housed in a former citrus packing house, this massive three-story mall is packed with antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. It's a place where you can easily spend hours browsing, and it's frequently featured in content showcasing unique shopping experiences in Southern California.
The city's commitment to preserving its past is evident, offering a refreshing contrast to more modern urban landscapes. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or simply enjoy the ambiance of a bygone era, Whittier provides ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Culinary Adventures in Whittier
For those craving authentic flavors, Taqueria El Poblano is celebrated for its delicious Al Pastor Torta, a local favorite that draws in foodies. BBQ enthusiasts shouldn't miss Steve's BBQ, which is praised for its slow-smoked brisket. The city also boasts nostalgic dining experiences, such as Frisco's Carhop Drive-Thru, which brings back the classic 50s diner feel with carhops on skates delivering burgers and shakes.
Beyond these highlights, Whittier offers a range of dining options, including local coffee shops like Casa de Café and Latin kitchens like Sol 626 Latin Kitchen, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. The city's culinary landscape is a testament to its community spirit and diverse cultural influences.
Community and Local Events
Social media often captures the local pulse, from discussions about community news to highlights of local businesses. The Whittier Swap Meet at California High School was a popular weekly event, though it has faced occasional cancellations. These events, whether ongoing or historical, contribute to Whittier's identity as a place with deep local roots and active community life.
Visitors can often find local markets and gatherings that offer a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of Whittier residents, providing a more authentic travel experience beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit