Things To Do
in Paramount

Paramount, United States is a family-friendly suburb in Los Angeles County, just east of Long Beach. Known for its diverse neighborhoods and affordable housing, the city blends residential calm with easy access to the broader Southern California scene. Parks, schools, and local eateries define daily life here, drawing residents from many backgrounds.

This guide showcases practical tips, dining options, outdoor activities, and cultural insights to help you explore Paramount and the surrounding area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic center of Paramount, where you can admire charming architecture and vibrant murals. Be sure to visit the Paramount Historical Society to learn about the city's rich past.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the local park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. After your meal, explore the trails that wind through the park, perfect for a leisurely walk or jog. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby shops for some unique souvenirs and local crafts.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant that features a mix of American and international cuisine. After your meal, catch a live performance at the Paramount Theatre, which often hosts concerts and community events. End your evening with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets of the historic center.

day 2
Adventure at the Beach
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachside diner, where you can enjoy ocean views while you eat. After breakfast, head to the nearby beach to soak up some sun and feel the sand between your toes. Spend the morning swimming in the ocean or trying out beach volleyball with locals.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water, encountering playful sea life along the way. Alternatively, you could join a guided snorkeling tour to discover the underwater world. After your adventure, take a break at one of the beachside cafes for a refreshing drink.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to the beach to witness a stunning sunset over the ocean. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachfront seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh catches of the day. Cap off your night with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows with new friends.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🚌One-way public transit ticket$1.75-2.75
🏠Rent for a one-bedroom apartment$1,800-2,400
Coffee at a cafe$3-6
🛒Groceries (monthly estimate)$200-350

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse food scene and friendly neighborhoods
  • Easy access to Los Angeles attractions while staying in a quieter base
  • Limited nightlife within Paramount itself
  • Traffic congestion typical of the LA region

Places to Visit in Paramount

Visit one of these nice places.

Shoreline Village, Long Beach

Colorful waterfront with boats, piers, and pastel buildings—ideal for sunrise and golden-hour shots.

Naples Island Canals, Long Beach

Canal-side homes, arched bridges, and reflections on calm water provide charming portrait frames.

Queen Mary from Rainbow Harbor

Iconic ship silhouette against the harbor skyline makes a dramatic focal point for evening photography.

El Dorado Park Lake, Long Beach

Water, trees, and open space offering tranquil nature photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Paramount

Paramount sits in the Los Angeles basin and reflects Southern California’s multicultural palate, with Mexican, Korean, Filipino, Latin American, and Asian-inspired flavors everywhere.

Paramount Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Birria Tacos with consommé

Crispy, tender meat tacos served with a rich, flavorful consommé; a staple at many Mexican taquerías.

Must-Try!

Korean BBQ Short Ribs (Galbi)

Grilled marinated beef ribs, often paired with kimchi and rice at local Korean spots.

Carne Asada Tacos

Grilled steak tacos with cilantro, onions, and salsa, a street-food favorite.

Tamales and Posole

Comforting masa-based dishes with savory fillings, commonly found at family-owned eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Paramount Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local snacks from neighborhood vendors.

Nearby Markets in Long Beach/Cerritos

Multicultural markets and street vendors offering quick bites, ethnic specialties, and ready-to-eat street foods.

Seasonal Food Festivals and Night Markets

Occasional pop-up events featuring food trucks and local chefs in parks and community spaces.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a mild Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters; most of the year is sunny, with seasonal variations in rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space and politeness

Keep noise reasonable in public spaces, greet others politely, and queue patiently.

Language and greetings

Spanish is common in many shops and restaurants; a few basics go a long way.

Tipping and service

Tipping is customary for service staff; use polite language and thank-you phrases.

Safety Guide

Safety

As in many urban/suburban areas, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas or at night. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secured, and park in well-lit areas. Call 911 for emergencies.

Tipping in Paramount

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the US, tip 15-20% at restaurants; round up totals for small services and tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and baristas.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect hot, dry days with abundant sunshine. Plan outdoor shoots for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated; air conditioning is common in stores and venues.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with pleasant light for photography and outdoor activities. Occasional marine breeze; foliage transitions provide color accents.

Winter

Cool, mostly dry conditions with cooler evenings. Rain is possible, so carry a light jacket and plan indoor backups.

Spring

Moderate temperatures and blooming flora in parks and gardens; longer daylight hours create excellent shooting windows.

Nightlife Guide

Paramount at Night

Paramount’s nightlife is low-key, with most options centered on casual eateries, cafés, and nearby cities like Long Beach or Cerritos offering bars, live music venues, and late-night dining.

Hiking in Paramount

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Puente Hills Preserve

Hiking and nature trails with rolling hills and sweeping city views, near Rowland Heights and Walnut.

El Dorado Park Trails

Extensive trails and lakes in Long Beach for a range of outdoor activities.

Griffith Park Trails

Iconic LA trails with city views; a longer trip but offers standout scenery.

Airports

How to reach Paramount by plane.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Major international gateway about 20-25 miles from Paramount; several terminals and extensive flight options.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

Smaller regional airport closer to Paramount; simple, efficient security and quick connections.

John Wayne Airport (SNA)

South Orange County airport with domestic and limited international flights; about 25-30 miles away.

Ontario International Airport (ONT)

Northern Inland option with broader domestic routes; roughly 40 miles away.

Getting Around

Walkability

Paramount is primarily car-oriented, with walkable pockets around some parks and centers, but most daily trips require a vehicle. Some neighborhoods offer sidewalks and short strolls to local shops, making short walks feasible for daily errands.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic/Latino

A large share of residents contributes vibrant cultural traditions, food, and local businesses.

Asian American

Significant presence from Korean, Filipino, Chinese, and other communities, reflected in nearby restaurants and markets.

White (Non-Hispanic)

Part of the diverse mix of residents in Paramount and surrounding cities.

African American and Other

Smaller but active communities with contributing cultural events and institutions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A popular sport at local schools and community centers; pickup games and leagues are common.

Soccer

Community leagues and rec leagues for all ages; parks host weekend games.

American Football

School and community programs are frequent; local youth and high school games draw crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

LA-area traffic can be heavy, especially during weekdays. Rideshares and public transit options exist, but a car is often the most convenient way to get around; plan extra time for commutes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Paramount.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places offer veggie burritos, bean dishes, salads, and vegetable-focused plates; ask for no lard or chicken stock and look for vegan options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is readily available in the wider LA area with hospitals such as Long Beach Memorial, St. Mary Medical Center, and nearby clinics; residents often use regional networks for care and specialists.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide