Things To Do
in Commerce

Commerce, California is a small, industrial city in southeast Los Angeles County best known for the Citadel Outlets and the Commerce Casino. The city sits along busy freeways and rail lines and has a strong working-class, largely Hispanic community with a mix of warehouses, retail, and pockets of residential neighborhoods. Visitors will notice industrial architecture, colorful street murals in nearby East LA, and a practical, no-frills local atmosphere.

Commerce is a convenient base for exploring greater Los Angeles attractions while offering bargain shopping and 24/7 casino action.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Heart of Commerce
morning
:

Start your journey with a visit to the Commerce City Hall where you can learn about the local governance and community projects. Afterward, take a stroll around the historic downtown area, appreciating the unique architecture and charming shops. Don't forget to grab a coffee at a local café to fuel your day ahead.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Commerce Museum to delve into the rich history of the city and its evolution over the years. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase the local culture and significant events. After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring dishes inspired by the region.

evening
:

Spend your evening at the Commerce Public Park, where you can unwind and relax as the sun sets. If timing allows, catch a local concert or community event happening in the park. Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the many eclectic eateries downtown, savoring local flavors.

day 2
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local art gallery, appreciating works from both established and upcoming artists. Engage in a workshop if available, to create your own piece to take home. After your artistic morning, treat yourself to brunch at one of the riverside restaurants.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit a nearby cultural center to explore the diverse events and cultural exhibitions hosted throughout the year. Participate in any ongoing workshops or try out a new skill like pottery or painting. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the river to enjoy nature’s beauty.

evening
:

As evening falls, find a cozy spot at a local cinema to catch an indie film or participate in an open mic night at a nearby venue. Embrace the local arts scene while enjoying some snacks and drinks. Spend the rest of the night mingling with locals and experiencing vibrant community spirit.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee (regular)$3-5
🚌Metro/bus fare (one-way)$1.75-$2.00
🚕Short ride-share/taxi$8-15
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Convenient location near major freeways for exploring Los Angeles
  • Excellent outlet shopping at Citadel Outlets and 24/7 gaming at Commerce Casino
  • Strong local food scene for authentic Mexican and Central American cuisine
  • Lower accommodation costs compared with central Los Angeles
  • Industrial landscape and heavy traffic can feel gritty to some visitors
  • Limited traditional tourist attractions within city limits
  • Car-dependent — public transit is available but less convenient than driving
  • Certain neighborhoods can have higher crime rates; require awareness after dark

Places to Visit in Commerce

Visit one of these nice places.

Citadel Outlets

Bright, stylized architecture and storefronts make for colorful daytime and sunset shopping-mall shots; good for people and street photography.

Commerce Casino

Neon lights, busy gaming floors and exterior signage are great for night photography and capturing a unique local nightlife vibe.

Rio Hondo and Whittier Narrows

Parks, water, birdlife and bridges provide natural and urban-park scenes, especially attractive in the golden hours and during migratory seasons.

Industrial corridors and rail yards

Trucks, warehouses and rail infrastructure create gritty, cinematic urban-industrial compositions — best visited safely from public sidewalks and viewing points.

Nearby East LA murals and street art

A short drive away, vibrant murals and culturally rich street art tell stories of the local community — ideal for colorful cultural portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Commerce

Commerce dining leans heavily on Mexican and broader Central American influences, with many family-run taquerías, pupuserías, bakeries and market stalls. The city’s proximity to East LA and Monterey Park means access to a diverse Southern California food scene, including Asian and classic American options at the outlets and along main corridors. Expect informal, affordable eateries, many of which are cash-friendly and open late. For a night out, the casino and nearby neighborhoods offer more formal dining and bar scenes.

Commerce Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacos (including birria and al pastor)

Street-style tacos are everywhere — look for birria tacos (stewed beef with a dipping consommé) and al pastor. Best found at small taquerías and taco stands along Atlantic Ave and in nearby East LA.

Must-Try!

Pupusas

Thick Salvadoran corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, and pork; widely available at local pupuserías and Salvadoran bakeries.

Breakfast burrito

A hearty morning staple combining eggs, potatoes, cheese and salsa — available at diners and taco shops across Commerce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Corner Markets & Stands

Small Mexican grocery stores and street vendors around Atlantic and Washington have fresh tortas, tamales, and aguas frescas; cash and small bills are useful.

Citadel Outlets Food Court

A collection of chain and local fast-casual options that’s convenient for shopping days and offers a variety of cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Commerce has a Mediterranean-influenced, semi-arid climate: warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Temperatures are moderated by coastal influences but can still reach hot levels inland during heat waves. Rain is mostly confined to winter months (December–March). Overall the climate is favorable for year-round activities, with the best outdoor conditions in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Friendly greetings and brief small talk are common; many locals speak Spanish — a simple 'buenos días' or 'gracias' is appreciated.

Respect residential areas

Be mindful of private property, avoid blocking driveways, and keep noise down in residential neighborhoods, especially at night.

Photography Courtesy

Ask permission before photographing people close-up, as some residents prefer not to be photographed without consent.

Cultural Sensitivity

Commerce has a strong Hispanic and immigrant community; be respectful of cultural customs and family-centered spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Commerce is generally safe for daytime visitors in shopping and commercial areas, but exercise typical urban precautions: keep valuables out of sight, lock your vehicle, and stay aware in industrial or poorly lit areas after dark. Traffic and large trucks are common — use sidewalks and crosswalks. Avoid confronting suspicious individuals; call 911 in emergencies and use local police non-emergency numbers for concerns. Check local crime maps if you want block-by-block details.

Tipping in Commerce

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Standard U.S. tipping norms apply: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, $2–5 for valets and bellhops, and 10–15% or rounding up for taxis/ride-shares. Tip more for exceptional service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially at outlets and restaurants; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Carry some cash ($20–50) for small vendors, parking meters and markets that may be cash-preferred.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry with daytime highs often in the mid-80s–90s°F (high 20s–mid 30s°C); expect strong sun, especially on concrete and asphalt-heavy streets. Stay hydrated, plan outdoor mornings and evenings, and use sun protection.

Autumn

Mild and pleasant with cooling temperatures — a comfortable time for shopping and outdoor walks. Occasional Santa Ana winds may bring warm, dry and gusty conditions.

Winter

Generally mild with daytime highs in the 60s–70s°F (15–25°C) and cooler nights; periodic rain storms may occur between December and March. Pack a light jacket and an umbrella for rainy days.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers in nearby hills; a good time for hiking and photography before summer heat sets in.

Nightlife Guide

Commerce at Night

Nightlife in Commerce itself centers on the Commerce Casino, which offers late-night dining, gaming and occasional live entertainment. Outside the casino, nightlife is low-key — small bars and late-night eateries serve locals. For a broader late-night scene, drive into neighboring areas like downtown Los Angeles, Boyle Heights, or Monterey Park, which offer bars, clubs and music venues.

Hiking in Commerce

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Puente Hills Preserve (Turnbull Canyon and surrounding trails)

Short drives from Commerce, these trails offer moderate hikes, ridge views over the basin and seasonal wildflowers — good for half-day outings.

Whittier Narrows trails / Santa Fe Dam

Gentle trails around lakes and flood-control basins ideal for walking, birdwatching and family outings; very accessible from Commerce.

Eaton Canyon (Pasadena)

A bit farther north but a popular local hike with a waterfall (seasonal) and clear trails — suitable for a morning or afternoon trip.

San Gabriel Mountains (various trailheads)

For more serious hiking and mountain scenery, the San Gabriel Mountains lie to the north; these offer day hikes and higher-elevation trails but require a 45–90 minute drive depending on trailhead.

Airports

How to reach Commerce by plane.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Approximately 20–30 miles southwest by car depending on traffic; major international airport with extensive domestic and global connections. Allow extra time for freeway congestion when traveling to/from Commerce.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

About 12–20 miles to the south depending on route; smaller regional airport with domestic flights and less congestion than LAX — convenient for some domestic connections.

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)

Roughly 25–35 miles northwest, useful for some West Coast connections and often easier to navigate than LAX; ground travel time varies with traffic.

Ontario International Airport (ONT)

About 30–45 miles east in the Inland Empire; a practical alternative for eastern LA County and Inland Empire access.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is mixed: the Citadel Outlets and some residential blocks are pedestrian-friendly, but much of Commerce is car-oriented with industrial areas, wide roads and limited sidewalks. Walking between disparate sites can be lengthy; rideshare or driving is often the most practical option.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic / Latino community

Commerce has a predominantly Hispanic/Latino population, reflected in language, food, festivals and businesses — Spanish is widely spoken.

Working-class and industrial workforce

Many residents work in manufacturing, warehousing and logistics; the city’s economy includes large industrial employers and small businesses.

Small immigrant communities

In addition to Mexican heritage, there are Salvadoran and other Central American communities contributing to the local cultural fabric and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is extremely popular at the community level, with many youth leagues and pick-up games reflecting the large Hispanic population’s passion for the sport.

Baseball and Little League

Baseball and softball are active community sports with local fields and youth programs at area parks.

Basketball

Street and park basketball is common for youth and adults; nearby gyms and courts host leagues year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Commerce sits at the intersection of major freeways (I-5, I-710 and I-605 are nearby), so expect heavy traffic during morning and evening rush hours. Parking is generally available at the outlets and casino but can fill on weekends and holidays. Public transportation options include regional buses and nearby rail services, but schedules and last-mile connections often make rideshare or driving more convenient for visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Commerce.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available but not always prominent; look for cheese and vegetable tacos, veg burritos, or request beans and rice without lard. Many markets have fresh produce for DIY meals.

Vegan

Vegan choices are limited but increasing; seek out specialty cafes in nearby neighborhoods (Monterey Park, East LA) or ask taco stands for beans, grilled veggies, salsas and guacamole.

Gluten-free

Corn-based tortillas and many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, but ask about cross-contamination at busy street stands and in kitchens that use flour tortillas.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Primary healthcare and urgent-care clinics are available in Commerce and neighboring cities; full-service hospitals are within a 10–25 minute drive in Montebello, Downey and central Los Angeles. Dial 911 for emergencies. Pharmacies are common along main streets and at shopping centers; bring your insurance card and a list of medications when seeking care.

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