Paramount, CA

Hynes and Clearwater, two small dairy towns, combined to form Paramount in 1948. The city incorporated into Los Angeles County in 1957. Over the years, Paramount has become less dairy-oriented and more urbanized. Nowadays, it sets a financial example for other cities to follow, with a consistent budget surplus and well-funded community services.

Paramount's Outdoor Art Museum includes a collection of impressive outdoor sculptures. These pieces range from abstract works of art to lifelike figures. Although the city doesn't have any other museums or art collections, it does have the Paramount Hay Tree. As the location where hay traders would set the price of hay each work day, California considers this tree a state historical landmark.

The city includes a vibrant blend of reasonably priced restaurants specializing in American or international cuisines.

Visit Cafe Corleone for authentic Italian food served in a bright, lively atmosphere. The Godfather theme extends to the interior of the restaurant, with posters from the films across the walls. You can't go wrong with the Dolores Pizza, but make sure to ask about the chef's daily special, crafted from a seasonal rotation of the freshest ingredients.

For a taste straight from the Hawaiian islands, stop by Waikiki Hawaiian Grill. Fast service and inexpensive food choices make this grill an ideal spot to grab a quick lunch or dinner. If you like fried rice, try the Hawaiian fried rice for an island variation on an old favorite. Stick around the counter after you order to watch your food be cooked before your eyes.

Alondra Hot Wings claims "Best Wings in Town," so if you love hot wings go see for yourself. Order as many as you think you can put down, with whatever signature sauce suits your taste buds best. Alondra's also has party platters for large groups of diners. This restaurant puts its own spin on things with a mob theme to the decor, so gangster movie enthusiasts should enjoy the layout.

Nightlife in Paramount consists mainly of local bars and restaurants. The city doesn't have a club scene, but those looking for live music and good times should check out Torino Lounge. The lounge brings in music from different cultures, with an emphasis on Spanish music and drinks. Come by on Saturday nights for a packed dance floor moving to Spanish dance music.

Most residents commute from Paramount by car, but the city also has public transportation options available.

Motorists have quick access to local freeways, although traffic sometimes gets congested during rush hour. Interstate 105, running east and west, lies on the north end of the city. Interstate 710, running north and south, lies on the west end. California State Route 91, also running east and west, lies just south of the city. The streets have parking, just read the signs to avoid a ticket.

If you don't have a car, take advantage of Paramount's convenient bus system. The Easy Rider Shuttle takes residents on a local route through town. Los Angeles Metro buses, including routes 258 and 265, service the area. Paramount makes it easy on college students with the College Bound Bus, which stops at Cerritos College and Long Beach College. Taxis and ride share companies like Uber service the area. Pick up times vary.

Paramount's size of less than 5 square miles makes it possible to handle local errands on foot or bike. Some roads don't have bike lanes, but you can ride on the street or sidewalk. For longer trips, you may want to take a car or the bus.

This community takes care of its residents with ten parks and several recreational sites with a variety of activities.

Outdoor enthusiasts should visit Spane Park for scenery which includes a well-maintained walking trail and a peaceful pond. If you enjoy fishing, sign up for the fishing club that meets on Friday afternoons. The trail goes up several hills that make it a good workout, and kids can get their own workout on the playground. The park also has fitness classes for adults and sports leagues for the kids. You can visit the park for free. Activity fees vary, although some activities don't cost anything.

The Community Services and Recreation Department, located on Downey Avenue, puts on several annual events, particularly around the holidays. Every winter, a holiday tree lighting takes place with music and refreshments. Take the whole family to get into the spirit of the season. Santa Claus himself goes around the neighborhood on a Christmas train every year to bring cheer to the community.

Life in Paramount carries a lower than average cost of living, compared to most of Los Angeles. The cost of leasing apartments or houses falls in line with the surrounding areas. A one bedroom apartment usually rents $1,200 per month.

You can get to the city center on the Easy Rider Shuttle for $1. Gas prices come in around 14 percent higher than the national average, and you can get a pint at a local pub for about $6.

Paramount may not have a big shopping scene, but it does have the largest daily swap meet in the state. Located on All America City Way, the Paramount Swap Meet has been operating since 1955. Featuring over 800 vendor spaces across more than 46 acres of land, this swap meet benefits both the residents and the community's small businesses. It brings in large amounts of traffic to vendors that wouldn't have this many customers otherwise, and shoppers get to browse through a huge selection of discounted items.

Boutique shoppers should visit Stop Staring, an upscale shop with a collection of retro-style women's clothing. With clothes that have been worn by A-List celebrities, expect to find stylish pieces that follow current trends while still looking unique.

Practical Magicka on Flower Street carries essential oils, herbs and soaps among other items. The store also has a massage therapy room as well as spaces to rent for classes or events.

While the city doesn't have any farmers markets, its grocery stores include Walmart, Stater Bros. Market, the Northgate Market and Super A Foods. El Super has a large presence in the community, having taken over the location of a former Albertsons. Low prices characterize the shopping experience at El Super, which usually has quality produce and a variety of Mexican foods.