Lawndale, CA

Named after a Chicago suburb, Lawndale began as an agricultural community. A population boom occurred after World War II, and it incorporated as a city of Los Angeles in 1959. Since then, Lawndale has given residents a more affordable housing option than the nearby beach cities.

As a residential community, Lawndale doesn't have any museums or art galleries, but the community celebrates its younger citizens with the Lawndale Youth Day Parade, an annual event that has run for decades. This tradition welcomes everyone, making it fun for the entire family. Every parade has a theme, so come in costume.

The city's restaurants create a unique dining scene with a blend of cuisines from across the globe.

For a traditional Indian meal with plenty of rice and chilies, visit Annapurna Indian Restaurant. An intimate environment with subtle, tasteful decor makes this an excellent choice for a romantic dinner. If you like spicy food, give the lamb curry a try.

Generous portions at a low price define the experience at El Amigo. This restaurant has a small, hole-in-the-wall appearance that contrasts with the large servings of authentic Mexican food. The carne asada wet burrito with red sauce is a menu highlight. Since the location doesn't have much seating, you may want to order takeout during peak hours.

Ocho Rios Grill brings Jamaican food and an island vibe to Lawndale. Get the oxtails for tender flavor with a bit of a kick. With food ordered in either large or small servings, you can leave satisfied no matter how much you like to eat. The spicy sauce should come with a warning label, because it packs some serious heat.

Nightlife in the area tends to be quiet, with locals going to neighborhood bars or restaurants that stay open late. While Lawndale doesn't have live music venues, it does have Brooklyn Bar, a local sports spot. Dance to the music of your choice by selecting a song on the jukebox. Each table has board games set up for a night of fun with close friends.

Quick freeway access, several public transportation options and a walkable neighborhood give you multiple methods of traveling around Lawndale.

Drivers can get around the local area easily due to its size. For longer commutes, the 405 freeway runs north and south in the middle of the city. Traffic gets congested during rush hour, so plan ahead if you're commuting to other neighborhoods. You can park on the street, just check the signs first.

Lawndale has an excellent public transportation network. For local trips, the Lawndale Beat provides an inexpensive way to get around town. The Los Angeles Metro and the Gardena Bus also service the community. Hop on the Metro Green Line for longer trips. Taxis and ride share companies such as Uber service the area.

At less than 2 square miles, Lawndale can be traveled on foot or bike. Streets in Lawndale tend to be safe for bikers.

With a community center, several parks and annual events, Lawndale keeps its residents busy.

The Lawndale Community Center features exercise areas, a game room and a variety of physical activities. With programs such as martial arts, sports leagues and dance classes, anyone can find an activity to enjoy. Classes are arranged by age and level, and fees vary based on the class.

Pet owners should check out the Lawndale Dog Park. Small- and large-dog areas allows dogs to socialize with other dogs of similar sizes for enhanced safety. Come here when you want to take the leash off and let your dog burn some energy.

Ho’olaule’a, a Hawaiian festival, takes place every year at Alondra Park. Performances, food, and arts and crafts make for a lively atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. You don't have to pay admission, so bring friends and immerse yourself in the island culture. Make sure to check out the hula hoopers, and get a bite to eat early, because demand runs high, and vendors may run out of food.

Life in Lawndale carries a low cost of living compared to most of Los Angeles. Leasing houses or apartments tends to cost much less than the surrounding beach cities. A one-bedroom apartment typically rents for about $900 per month, but you may find cheaper arrangements.

A ride to the city center on the Lawndale Beat costs 75 cents, and gas prices come in at around 15 percent higher than the national average. A pint at the local pub costs about $4.

Lawndale doesn't have a shopping center or any central shopping area. Instead, the community focuses on specialty stores.

Frank's Furniture features reasonably priced furniture with a helpful staff. Salespeople are more than happy to help you decide on a new chair or sofa, and you can even get pieces customized. Free local delivery makes this store a convenient option for residents.

Deal hunters should check out House of Yahweh thrift shop. Selling only donated items, this shop has vintage and modern clothing along with a variety of miscellaneous items. Go on a Monday for Dollar Day, when all clothing prices drop to $1.

Grocery stores include Smart & Final, Big Saver Foods, El Super, the 99 Cent Store and a handful of ethnic supermarkets. If you prefer to buy organic, check out the Lawndale Farmers Market at 147th Street and Hawthorne Boulevard. Taking place every Wednesday afternoon, this market features natural food choices in a small environment that doesn't feel crowded. Check out the pupusa stand, a highlight of the market.