Where the hell is Torrance?
If you’re not from California, you probably might not be too familiar with Torrance. Located 10 miles south of the LAX Airport, it’s a great spot to take advantage of all that Los Angeles has to offer, while also venturing further south to Disneyland, Long Beach and more.
Whether you're in search of a relaxing beach getaway or an art-filled excursion, you'll be pleasantly surprised to discover that Torrance has more than meets the eye. Torrance Beach offers a serene 1.5-mile expanse of untouched shoreline, providing a tranquil escape akin to having your own private coastal haven. It also serves as the starting point for the 22-mile Strand Bike Path, perfect for leisurely rides by the ocean.
If you’re ready for an adventure, the Madrona Marsh Preserve & Nature Center is the spot. As the largest wetland in Los Angeles county, it offers a pristine natural oasis for exploration and contemplation.
Torrance isn't just about outdoor beauty; it's also a paradise for art and film enthusiasts. Located just outside of Hollywood, Torrance has served as a filming location for countless iconic movies and TV shows, including the famed Torrance High School.
Here are the "top things to do" Torrance bucket list for your next Los Angeles adventure.
Day Trips from Torrance:
Hollywood Sign: About 45 minutes from Torrance, the sign was originally constructed in 1923 as a real-estate advertisement that read “Hollywoodland”. After the sign was rebuilt in 1949, “land” was dropped. When you get to the top, you're overlooking the giant letters from behind which is a POV you can't get anywhere else.
If you time it just right, you can hike up to the Hollywood Sign then trek another two miles to Griffith Observatory in time for sunset, which overlooks the entire city. The hike up is pretty easy with most of it paved, but if you're feeling adventurous there are some tougher treks with less crowds but equally amazing views.
Griffith Observatory: End your Hollywood Sign hike at Griffith – the best way to do it is at sunset (big sunset guy here, obviously) and then spend the next hour looking at planets through some of their high-tech telescopes. From the building itself to the vibe of people just hanging out and taking in the views, it's a special place to me.
Disneyland: A 45-minute ride to perhaps the most magical place on earth. Located in Anaheim, Disneyland is always a good idea for anyone no matter what age.
Santa Monica Pier: I'm a Jersey boy, so I do see a lot of my roots reminiscent of Seaside Heights Boardwalk back home. It's even better IMO to visit at night, with the rides and ferris wheel illuminated against the elusive backdrop of crashing waves.
Fun fact: Santa Monica Pier (as of 2009) is officially the end to Route 66 which was created in 1926 as a link between Chicago and Los Angeles. Make sure to take a picture in front of the sign! It’s a 35-minute drive from Torrance.
Top Things To Do in Torrance | What to See:
Drive Through Torrance & Experience Old Film Locations: Movie fans listen up! You’ll find plenty of places where your favorite scenes took place, from shows and films such as: Beverly Hills, 90210, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Bruce Almighty, She’s All That, Horrible Bosses and more.
Tour the Western Museum of Flight: It’s like a time machine for aviation enthusiasts – minus the turbulence. The museum lets you cozy up to vintage planes, whispering tales of daring pilots and sky-high adventures.
Stop by Madrona Marsh Preserve & Nature Center: Wander through marsh wetlands that you wouldn’t expect to find in LA.
Walk/Explore Old Torrance: Spend an afternoon in the historic downtown with historic buildings, restaurants and of course shopping.
Visit Torrance Beach and Miramar Park: The beach is a quiet 1.5 mile stretch of pristine uncrowded coastline that serves as a starting point for the 22-mile Strand Bike Path. That’s right – you can ride your bike all the way up to the Santa Monica Pier along the sand.
Top Things To Do in Torrance | Where to Eat & Drink:
Torrance boasts a diverse culinary scene with over 400 eateries to explore. Whether you're craving unique pastries from local bakeries or seeking a great local beer, this city offers a wide range of options from across the globe.
Dinner at HopSaint Brewing Co.: Come hungry and thirsty. A cool vibe and menu items include bacon belly bites, pork poutine, flatbread, mac-n-cheese, po boy sandwiches and more.
Beer Tasting at Absolution Brewing Company: Torrance is home to some great freaking breweries. Try some local, handcrafted artisan beers and ales.
Beer Tasting at Project Barley Square & Pub: The newest brewery in town, serving cask ale in proper pints along with Pizza Kraft which is connected to the brewery.
Dinner at Madre Oaxacan Restaurant and Mezcaleria: Featuring live entertainment, this Mexican restaurant (with recipes passed down several generations) features an extensive mezcal and tequila lineup.
Breakfast at King’s Hawaiian Bakery & Restaurant: A true taste of Hawaii with a true Hawaiian welcome. Known for their King’s Hawaiian Bread, the restaurant moved to Torrance from Hilo, Hawaii in 1977.
Top Things To Do in Torrance | Where to Stay:
For sports and music lovers, Torrance is a great location to call home base on your trip. It’s just 23 minutes away from SoFi Stadium, home of the 2022 Super Bowl, 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics and your favorite concert in town.
Bluestem Hotel Torrance Redondo Beach, Ascend Hotel Collection: Imagine sleek design with a dash of coastal chic – the kind of place where you'd find a surfboard as wall art and a lobby that makes you feel like you've stepped into a trendy friend's living room. It’s just what you need for a great night’s sleep after the day’s adventure.
If you want to hold onto Summer just a little longer, you know where to go next.
Be good, JB
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