Things To Do
in Compton
Compton, California, is a city in Los Angeles County with a rich cultural history and a resilient, tight-knit community. It has contributed significantly to music, arts, and sports, reflecting a diverse mix of residents and traditions. Visitors will find vibrant street art, local markets, and community events that celebrate resilience and creativity.
While navigating urban neighborhoods, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings and engage with respect for residents and local norms.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Compton Courthouse, an iconic landmark that reflects the city's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can savor delicious breakfast burritos and freshly brewed coffee. After your meal, take a stroll down Compton Boulevard, soaking in the vibrant murals that tell the story of the community.
Head to the Compton Museum, where you can explore exhibits that highlight local history and culture. For lunch, treat yourself to some authentic Southern cuisine at a nearby restaurant, where you can indulge in fried chicken and collard greens. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Carson Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk or relax by the lake.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local jazz club for a night of live music that showcases the talents of local artists. Enjoy dinner at a nearby eatery known for its fusion of traditional and modern dishes, where you can sample their signature cocktails. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely stroll through the city, taking in the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day at the Compton Art Walk, where local artists showcase their work in an open-air gallery setting. Breakfast at a trendy café nearby will fuel your creative exploration, with options like acai bowls and artisan pastries. Spend some time interacting with artists and learning about their inspirations and techniques.
Visit the California African American Museum, located a short drive away, to delve into the rich contributions of African Americans in California's history. After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a soul food restaurant, sampling dishes that celebrate the local culture. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Watts Towers, marveling at the intricate mosaics and artistic expressions that tell a unique story.
For dinner, experience the flavors of Compton by dining at a local taco stand known for its street-style tacos and vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, catch a performance at a local theater, showcasing talent from the community. Conclude your night with a dessert stop at a popular ice cream shop, sampling unique flavors inspired by the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🚌Public transportation fare | $1.50-3 |
| 💳Mid-range dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and music history
- Vibrant street art and community events
- Proximity to greater Los Angeles attractions
- Urban safety concerns in certain areas
- Varied public transportation options and traffic
- Some services and amenities may be limited compared to nearby neighborhoods
Places to Visit in Compton
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant street art and murals along Crenshaw Boulevard provide colorful backdrops for urban photography and portraits.
Statues, signage, and green spaces offer nice light and composition opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Public art that captures community life and local history, perfect for documentary-style photography.
Food in Compton
Compton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised meat in flavorful consommé served on corn tortillas, often enjoyed with onions, cilantro, and lime.
Must-Try!
Crispy, lacquered chicken with a kick of sweetness and spice, commonly found at local eateries and fusion spots.
Grilled beef, rice, beans, salsa, and guacamole wrapped in a flour tortilla—popular in taquerias throughout the area.
Barbecue ribs and pulled pork with sides like mac and cheese or coleslaw, reflecting Southern influences in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A cluster of grocery spots and small vendors offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and street snacks—great for sampling quick bites.
Taco stands, poke bowls, and fusion carts with a variety of flavors popular in Southern California.
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, ready-to-eat items, and handmade goods from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be considerate when taking photos of people or in private spaces; when in doubt, ask for permission.
Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas, especially at night; greet people politely and avoid confrontations.
Public photography is generally allowed, but avoid sensitive locations such as private homes or schools without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Compton
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, standard tips are 15-20% at restaurants; tip more for exceptional service. Tipping for ride-shares and bar staff is customary but not always expected to the same extent as dine-in service.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and mobile payments; cash is always useful for small vendors or markets that may not take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming greenery; pleasant for street photography and outdoor exploring.
Warm to hot days; hydrate and plan shade breaks; peak outdoor activity hours are early morning and late afternoon.
Cooler evenings and moderate daytime temperatures; great for strolls and outdoor dining.
Milder in the day with cooler evenings; rain is possible—check forecast and plan indoor options as needed.
Compton at Night
Hiking in Compton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle trails and park spaces suitable for a light hike and outdoor exploration within a short drive.
A bit farther afield but offers canyon trails, scenic views, and opportunities for more substantial hiking excursions.
Airports
How to reach Compton by plane.
Major international hub about 10-15 miles from central Compton; connected by multiple freeways and rideshare options, with plenty of ground transportation choices.
Compact regional airport offering a handful of domestic flights, typically easier to navigate than larger hubs.
Small general aviation airport close to the region; primarily serving private and charter flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Compton has a mix of African American, Latino, Asian, and other communities contributing to a vibrant cultural tapestry.
A sizeable portion of residents are families and students connected to nearby schools and community organizations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in the region with local leagues, community courts, and school athletic programs.
High school and college football scenes are active nearby, with tailgating and community support.
Growing youth and adult leagues with accessible fields throughout the LA area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Compton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer veggie tacos, salads, and bowls; look for vegetable-based dishes or request substitutions (cheese, avocado, beans) to keep meals meat-free.