Norwalk, CA

The Mexican-American War served as the turning point for the land currently known as Norwalk. Following the conflict, both the town itself and several other neighboring portions of land were made available for sale upon California's admittance into the United States. However, 1873 was the year that the town of Norwalk was born, serving as a passenger stop for the Anaheim Branch Railroad. Throughout the following century, the town saw a surge of development and growth with the addition of numerous facilities, including a school system and a number of factories in addition to several residences constructed across orchards, farms and dairies in the area.

The Art in Public Places Program fuels the local art scene, showcasing nationally recognized permanent outdoor sculptures throughout the city. The Hargitt House stands out as one of Norwalk's most iconic historical landmarks, giving visitors an intimate and detailed look into Norwalk's past.

A sundry display of internationally themed eateries, independently owned bistros and nationally recognized food chains combine to create a fully diversified dining district. Several restaurants sit along Pioneer Boulevard and neighboring streets.

Grill Town, located on Norwalk Boulevard, serves some of Norwalk's healthiest and most authentic Korean cuisine. The restaurant specializes in crafting full-flavored and full-bodied dishes in a quick and efficient manner. Menu items range from steamed vegetables and salmon plates to spice- and probiotic-loaded kimchi. Grill Town presents a casually decorated yet invitingly comfortable atmosphere with minimalist-style decor. Combine Grill Town's amazing food with both superior customer satisfaction and quality focus, and you have one of Norwalk's hidden gems. Make sure to try the joint's signature kimchi, a traditional fermented Korean side dish comprised of vegetables and a variety of seasonings.

For those looking for family-friendly books, gifts and other items, the Chapel Store and Cafe has a large selection of Christian music books, greeting cards and music. Take a break from shopping in the store's cafeteria. Grab a cup of coffee or sample one of the yummy desserts.

Angie's Deli brings culinary greatness found only south of the border right to plates of Norwalk customers as the neighborhood's most popular Mexican bistro. Chefs quickly and carefully craft delectable homemade meals, and courteous staff members serve the dishes to patrons in this warm, comfortable atmosphere. Norwalk locals regard Angie's Deli as a genuine hidden gem with its affordable prices and outstanding food. Try the Asada burrito, a combination of thinly cut marinated beef steak, cheese and specialty spices.

A distinct spread of karaoke venues, bars and music venues characterize the nightlife experience in Norwalk. Most establishments sit poised along Firestone Boulevard and Imperial Highway. Locals of all ages make their way to Rocks for a healthy dosage of nightly entertainment. With warming company, live musical entertainment, pool table access and near-endless drink specials, Rocks serves as the go-to destination for experiencing a real taste of Norwalk's nightlife scene. Luxor Music Studio on Pioneer Boulevard provides an outlet for the singer in everyone as an elegantly decorated and well-stocked facility, featuring numerous private rooms for karaoke.

Automobiles, public transit and pedestrian traffic rank as the most common means of transportation in the neighborhood. The Los Angeles Metro functions as the primary form of public transportation, providing numerous bus and rail routes throughout the city.

Although available to them, residents don't often take advantage of the taxi services in the area. Uber services are available within Norwalk and throughout the Los Angeles area. Since Norwalk heavily utilizes public transportation, Metro conveniently provides a fair spread of affordable park-and-ride lots in stations throughout the city. A mix of free on-street residential parking, metered spaces and private lots comprise the available public parking around the city. Three main freeways, including the Santa Ana Freeway (I-5), San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605) and the Century Freeway, run throughout Norwalk. Moreover, the city presents a fairly pedestrian friendly environment, while cyclists enjoy access to over 1000 bike trails in Norwalk alone.

The majority of parks in the Norwalk area maintain a strong focus on recreation, providing spaces for athletes and families alike to get their dose of fresh air and exercise. Norwalk Park presents visitors with a wide range of facilities, including a mini zoo, playground, public pool, skate park, basketball court and a museum. Additionally, the park welcomes your furry companions for peaceful walks around the park.

The city also houses an amusement park that serves as a great getaway for the whole family. Golf n' Stuff on E Firestone Boulevard, a premier amusement park in the Norwalk area, features four 18-hole mini golf courses, bumper boats, ramrod bumper cars, numerous rides and over 100 interactive arcade games.

Be sure to catch the annual Holiday Mixer, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. The event celebrates the holiday season and features a visit from Norwalk’s famous Santa Sleigh in addition to the Holiday Silent Auction.

The cost of living in Norwalk runs 11 percent lower than that of Los Angeles. When locals want to travel to the city center, it costs around $2 via Metro. One-bedroom residences in the neighborhood rent out at around $1,244. Residents who drive expect to pay around 12 percent more than the national average for gas, but an ice cold pint only runs around $6 at most bars.

Nationally recognized chain retailers dominate the commercial district of Norwalk, while small independent specialty shops and boutiques share a small presence in the area. Most commercial areas of interest sit along Firestone Boulevard and Imperial Highway, with major shopping centers such as the Norwalk Town Square Shopping Center located in The Plaza.

The Habitat for Humanity Restore services Norwalk as a heavily frequented and highly regarded alternative to more popular and expensive furniture outlets. The store houses an ample inventory that consists of a number of items ideal for home improvement and furnishing, including everything from doors, windows and rugs to tables, lamps and dishes. With the goal of "creating sustainable and affordable housing a reality for all," the Habitat For Humanity Restore provides customers with access to a healthy array of high-quality merchandise at affordable prices. Visit the store to find out why residents of Norwalk love this local gem.

Cyclists in Norwalk travel to Pat's 605 Cyclery for a superb collection of bikes and biking accessories. The store also provides a special type of expertise only found at this third generation family-owned business. It also repairs bikes of nearly any age, make or model, and it maintains a distinct reputation for no-nonsense customer service and satisfaction. Whether customers need to replace a rusted and aged bike chain or invest in a brand new top-of-the-line mountain bike, the staff at Pat's 605 Cyclery stand ready to help them make the right purchase at the right price.

Superior Grocers and Stater Bros Market serve as Norwalk's main grocery locations, housing a rich selection that ranges from fresh vegetables and meats to organic goods and grains. Superior Grocers offers several convenient services besides groceries, including check cashing, bill payment options, lottery and money transfers, making this a convenient one-stop shopping trip frequently made by the locals. Additionally, the Norwalk Certified Farmer's Market houses an exclusive collection of produce and plants from a variety of local vendors.