Carson is a small city of 95,000 people located in Los Angeles County, California. Since it is only about 15 miles from downtown Los Angeles, it is considered part of the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
Like other towns in Southern California, Carson is known for its pleasant weather and easy access to the coast—where there are beautiful sandy beaches. That famous coastline is only about six miles from the city.
Carson is also known for its distant views of Rancho Palos Verdes and more than 120 acres of outdoor recreation green space.
Fourteen parks, various sports facilities and three swimming pools are some of the attractions visitors can enjoy on their city tour. Carson also has many restaurants, retail stores, museums and interesting attractions.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in Carson, California.
1. Find the ideal mix of relaxation and relaxation at Carson Park
Whether you’re looking for an outdoor space to exercise and engage in some outdoor recreation, or just relax in nature, Carson Park is the perfect place for the whole family to spend an afternoon.
Relax on 11 acres of tranquility surrounded by trees, or take advantage of amenities such as a swimming pool, basketball court, baseball field, and playground.
2. Visit the International Printing Museum
The International Printing Museum is an interesting place to visit. You can learn about the history of the printing press and visit one of the largest collections of authentic, well-preserved printing presses in the world.
There are also various antiques on display. Knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to answer your questions.
3. Dine at an Italian restaurant in Rosario
If you’re looking for a comfortable, casual restaurant with dining options to suit every member of your group, Rosario’s Italian Restaurant offers a variety of cuisines to suit every taste.
While Italian food is the focus, North American food is also available. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Some menu choices include pizza, salads, soups, sandwiches, pasta and a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Rosario’s also serves a variety of beers and wines.
4. Attend a sporting event at Dignity Health Sports Park
If you’re a sports fan, or just enjoy watching athletes compete, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson provides an exciting way to spend an afternoon or evening.
The stadium hosts various competitions and exhibitions throughout the year. Football, baseball, basketball, tennis, track and field, cycling, boxing and volleyball are some of the sporting events hosted at the venue, and you can bet you’ll get the ultimate professional-level experience.
5. Admire the unique gnome village
A few years ago, an erosion problem at Cal State spawned a group of creative and brilliant minds who came up with an interesting and unique plan to stop it: They built a gnome village.
They tried a lot of things before coming up with the plan, but in the end, a gnome village – including stairs, bridges and roads – proved to be the best solution.
After some finishing touches like bonsai trees and colorful plants, the village adds some charm to the campus for everyone to enjoy.
6. Porsche Experience Centre
If driving a Porsche has always been your dream, the Porsche Experience Center in Carson can make it a reality.
There are only a few places in the world where drivers can drive cars known for their speed, performance and luxury. It’s an experience of a lifetime that not only provides you with a thrilling ride, but also a chance to test your driving skills.
The course you will be driving on is 53 acres. You can choose from a wide range of models including 911 Carrera s, 718 Cayman, 718 Boxster s, Accelerated GT3 and Panamera Turbo.
7. Stay healthy with Chinollo’s premium meals
It’s hard to eat healthy when traveling; you’re tired, hungry, and just want something quick, easy, and delicious.
At Carson’s Chinollo, you don’t have to turn to junk food to satisfy that craving. This restaurant serves healthy and delicious meals prepared with the freshest ingredients.
Chinollo offers guests unique signature dishes with ethnic flavors that reflect the diversity of the staff, while also offering a variety of traditional and familiar foods. Choose from tacos, salads, burritos, burritos, burgers, fries, seafood and appetizers.
Vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free eaters also have many options to choose from.
The place has a cozy, casual vibe and friendly staff treat customers like old friends.
8. Feel the thrill in the world of karting
For affordable fun for the whole family, head to Carson’s Karting World for an afternoon of adrenaline rush.
There are a variety of karting and bumper car tracks to choose from, so you can experience a variety of speeds and experiences. There is also an arcade on site.
9. Learn something new at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
The Natural History Museum in Los Angeles provides visitors with an insight into the past, focusing on the natural aspects of California history.
As you walk through the museum, you’ll see dozens of exhibits and artifacts that showcase billions of years of natural history.
There are permanent exhibits such as Becoming Los Angeles, Discovery Center and Insect Zoo and Spider Pavilion. There are also many temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
The Dinosaur Hall is probably the most popular exhibit in the museum. It has 300 fossils and 20 dinosaur bones. The Mammal Hall of North America features replicas of a variety of ecosystems, including redwood forests and grasslands.
10. Honest Abe Cider House
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy a drink, Honest Abe Cider House in Carson is the place to be. A variety of ciders, meads and wines can be purchased at the tap and in the tasting room.
A healthy, gluten-free option is a wholesome option that can be taken out or ordered online.
11. Anderson Park
Anderson Park is a great place to take the whole family on an outdoor excursion. Adults can relax on the 8-acre tree while kids have fun on the playground.
There are also tennis courts and a disc golf course on site. The park’s amphitheater hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including theatrical and musical events.
12. Take a coastal road trip
About a half-hour drive from Carson, Venice Beach is a long stretch of sand perfect for a variety of activities, including sunbathing, swimming, biking and walking along the picturesque boardwalk.
There are many shops and cafes near the beach, and street performers add to the exciting atmosphere of the area.
At night you can drive along the coast for about ten minutes to reach the Santa Monica Pier. Take a stroll along this iconic pier for one of the beautiful sunsets the area is famous for.
Enjoy nearby food stalls, shops and entertainment such as carousels, Ferris wheels and roller coasters.
13. Indulge in Asian fusion food at Hiccups
Hiccups is a unique tea house and eatery in Carson that serves a range of Asian fusion dishes and specialty beverages.
Step into the warm and comfortable atmosphere where you can sit and enjoy a delicious meal. The extensive menu includes a variety of appetizers, rice dishes, noodles, soups and popular choices such as Pad Thai and Pho – all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Specialty teas, smoothies and Vietnamese iced coffee are also available.
14. SouthBay Pavilion Shopping Center
If shopping is on your to-do list while in Carson, SouthBay Pavilion Mall is the perfect place to find travel souvenirs, perfect clothing or unique home items.
Featuring stores inside and outside, the mall has 100 stores including IKEA, Sears and locally owned specialty stores.
15. Watch a movie at Cinemark Carson & XD
If it’s raining outside, or you just want to relax and watch a good movie in comfort, Cinemark Carson & XD offers a variety of movie viewing experiences.
Whether you want to watch the latest release or a locally produced movie, there are plenty of movies to choose from on any given night.
Upgrade your ticket to a luxurious experience in the THX XD auditorium with wall-to-wall screens and surround sound.
If comfort is your priority, upgrade your ticket to include a reclining plush recliner. 3D experience is also available.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Carson, CA (CA)
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