Hacienda La Puente - City Of Industry, CA

Until 1870, Rancho La Puente in San Gabriel Valley remained intact, formerly occupied by the Tongva Native Americans. The region later housed 13 communities, including La Puente and Hacienda Heights, all belonging to Los Angeles County, with the exception of 40 acres, which fall in Orange County. La Puente attracted many settlers during the 1840s gold rush. In 1962, the area previously known as North Whittier Heights was renamed Hacienda Heights.

Puente and Hacienda grew to become heavily urban cities but maintain a strong sense of history. The Homestead Museum located on six acres celebrates the L.A. region from 1830 to 1930. This cultural landmark displays the Workman House, an adobe built in the 1840s, along with La Casa Nueva, a Spanish Colonial Revival mansion. The free Ticket to the Twenties festival invites visitors to dress in 1920s apparel and enjoy the roaring twenties at the Homestead Museum.

For the best Mexican food, stop by Teddy's Tacos on East Valley Boulevard. Locals recommend the azteca taco because of its "gooey cheese" and spicy chorizo. Check out the al pastor on a soft shell, or if you feel adventurous, try the jalapeño taco with an unconventional ingredient: raisins.

A trip down Maplegrove Street in Puente leads you to The Golden Owl, a stellar Burmese restaurant. The area's strong Asian influence shines through this stand-out restaurant. Start out with the samosa appetizers, described as "the best." For entrées, try the barbecue pork with garlic noodles, or for a vegan choice check out the vegan mohinga. This flavorful soup made with ginger, red lentils and lemongrass served over vermicelli always impresses diners.

Touted the "best watering hole in town," Taverna Kalel on Hillview Drive draws crowds. When you want high-end whiskey or a wide array of beer, visit this Puente pub.

For a good lounge, go to City Lights Cocktail Lounge in Hacienda. Found on South Hacienda Boulevard, City Lights has a live band, jukebox and plenty of TVs. This sports bar prompts socializing and mingling as people gather around the pool tables or dance to the tunes.

With easy access to State Route 60 and Interstates 10 and 605, most residents drive, finding ample free parking in the region. Public transportation runs faithfully through Hacienda and Puente, serviced by Metro and Foothill Transit. You also find an L.A. Metrolink train station in nearby City of Industry, along with Amtrak. On Metrolink, riders can travel to other southern California counties such as Riverside, Orange County and Antelope Valley.

Taxis serve the neighborhoods if you call ahead; Uber is less popular. Pedestrians find ample sidewalks for strolling the area. Cyclists should use caution because most streets don't have designated bike lanes.

Many locals hail the Thomas Burton Park as a favorite. Get in a jog and do some pull-ups, or hit the field for soccer, baseball and football. Residents enjoy walking their dogs at night, while party-goers gather around the barbecue grills and picnic benches. The park remains small, but it hosts several activities at the quaint recreational spot.

To take in the stunning San Gabriel Mountain views, spend time at Countrywood Park in Hacienda. Found on East Cooper Hill Road, the popular park attracts families with children and pets. Kids find entertainment at the playground, which has four swings and play equipment. Countrywood Park welcomes dogs, although they must be leashed. At night, locals stay for the panoramic views of the mountains and sunset. The little park creates a neighborhood feel without the fanfare of crowded events found at larger locations.

Visitors find ample free parking at both Thomas Burton and Countrywood public parks.

People living in the hills of Hacienda Heights pay a bit more for housing. Compared to other San Gabriel Valley neighborhoods, a median cost of $1,286 for a one-bedroom runs higher. By contrast, Baldwin Park, 11 miles away, charges around $900 for a one-bedroom. Apartments in lower Hacienda, north of State Route 60, run cheaper. Residents in Puente may also find more affordable options compared to the more exclusive Hacienda Heights neighborhood.

Public transportation remains cost-efficient. You can ride Metro or Foothill Transit buses for under $2 for a base fare. A bus trip to downtown Los Angeles 20 miles averages $4 to $6 on a city bus. Train commuters pay a little more depending on the destination.

Drivers can expect to pay about 10 percent above the national average for gas. A beer at a local pub averages $3.

When you're ready to shop, Puente and Hacienda residents direct you to Puente Hills Mall. Located on South Azusa Avenue in the neighboring City of Industry, this shopping center has retail favorites such as Macy's and H&M, along with smaller treasures like Papaya Clothing and Fashion Q. At Papaya, younger shoppers can pick up printed leggings and cool tunics that show off the trendiest looks.

For groceries, residents have 99 Ranch Market and 168 Market for ethnic foods, as well as Vons for traditional fare. To scour a farmer's market, Hacienda and Puente residents head to the Valinda/La Puente Farmers Market found at Allen J. Martin Park on East Giordano Street. Grab your reusable shopping bags and pick up the region's best farm-fresh fare. The market runs every Thursday from 3 to 8 pm.