Buena Park, CA

The King of Spain granted many settlers large ranches, including Rancho Los Coyotes, where Buena Park is now located. Mexico took over the area around 1820, and then lost it to the U.S. after the war in 1850. It became a part of LA in 1875, which triggered rapid development. Buena Park came to be in 1887 when its historic houses were built — three of which still stand thanks to preservation efforts. The area thrived on agriculture throughout the 1950s, eventually developing into the commercial and residential hub it is today.

Buena Park has a special area for all of its main attractions. In the E-Zone District, you’ll find Knott’s Berry Farm and Soak City for rides and nautical fun, or head to Medieval Times for dinner and a show. Check out the kitschy museums — Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Movieland Wax Museum keep locals and tourists alike entertained for hours.

Concentrated around the 5 and 91, Buena Park's food scene promises decadent dishes and high variety, proffering everything from spicy Korean galbi to sweet American banana pancakes.

Spencer's Bistro captures the European café atmosphere by making everything from scratch - even the hot sauce and whipped cream - and featuring a menu that rotates seasonally. Come for Italian- and French-fused flavors, such as the grilled chicken, French onion soup and seafood options. If you're craving hearty American fare, try Portillo's beef sandwich with sweet peppers; it's a taste of Chicago in SoCal.

Asian cuisine can be found on many corners, with Han Yang attracting the most foodies thanks to its yook gae jang and other filling soups and stews. Locals love that the banchan sides are unlimited and appreciate the attentive service. All-you-can-eat sushi doesn't get better than Odori Sushi. Start off with the baked mussels before you dive into a roll eating frenzy; all the fish is fresh, and you can select traditional sashimi and rice or rolls covered in your favorite sauces. Buena Park also offers a satisfying Indian buffet at India House Restaurant and stuffed omelets and other brunch favorites at Sunrise Cafe.

The neighborhood specializes in cocktail lounges and dive bars for after-hours fun. Rush Cocktail Lounge houses a DJ everyone dances to and owners everyone can talk to. Raul and Juan mix drinks themselves and make sure good times are had by all every night. A more gritty dive bar is Cups, where you can play pool for free and select tunes from the old-school jukebox while you sip cheap drinks. Another similar place , TomKat Lounge, features karaoke and caters to an older crowd. The tone is casual and homey, as locals order delivery and know each others' names. A great place for groups is Aloha Family Billiards, a pool hall designed for intimate conversation and relaxing evenings.

Bisected by Route 91, Buena Park makes driving a breeze. Its proximity to 91 as well as Route 39, which leads to the 5, means travel to other parts of Los Angeles and the state is simple and convenient. This also results in a bit of congestion, but having a car is a must whether you’re a resident or a visitor. Ample parking lots and meters provide convenience. Orange County Transport Authority provides a bus system, but it isn't reliable when you're running errands. Buena Park doesn't allow for efficient walking or biking either, except along Beach Boulevard. Uber is always an option if you're not prepared to drive yourself.

Buena Park is located at the foot of West Coyote Hills and benefits from a few lovely recreational parks. Ralph B. Clark Regional Park is a favorite of locals and visitors due to its nature trails, fishing pond, fossil museum and amphitheater along with amenities that top other local recreation areas. Come to escape city life and breathe in some fresh air thanks to plenty of room to play sports as well as relax. Also check out Buena Park Community Center and Henry Boissnerac Park. Clark and Boissnerac are the dog-friendly parks your four-legged family members are sure to enjoy.

The city hosts annual events such as the Tournament of Roses Parade, art shows and free concerts in the park, especially during summer.

The cost of living runs a bit higher than the city average. The average one-bedroom apartment cost about $1,100 per month. Beer costs about $6 and public transit is $1.50 for a one-way trip. Gas hovers about 10 percent above the national average. Overall, Buena Park's big-city amenities cause housing to be pricier, but the quality matches the cost.

Buena Park provides standard shopping centers with favorites like Target and TJ Maxx, but also features some local shops that serve as the locals' treasure chests. Attic is right across from Knott's Berry Farm and sells fashionable street wear and shoes. Locals and tourists come here for Nike shoes and clothes to match. Dollar Book Fair serves as a bookworm's and teacher's paradise. It houses a very organized layout of cheap paperbacks - old and new. Cute trinkets and gifts can be found at Morning Glory, a grade A toy store with stationery, stuffed animals and more. Come here to stock up on notebooks and Hello Kitty products. Groceries are often purchased at Albertson's, but the locally-run Zion Market and Hannam Market provide international options. Also, local farmers sell their tasty produce and more at the Buena Park Farmer's Market. It has an extensive selection and great parking for easy shopping.