One Day in Whittier

Growing up in Whittier, I never realized what a quaint, friendly community this was until I left it and returned. Just look beyond the suburban strip malls and chain restaurants that surround the historic region, and dig into the neighborhood businesses located in the pedestrian-friendly Uptown Whittier district for a fun afternoon. Weekends are full of families playing in the parks, huge yard sales on the sprawling lawns of historic homes and kids hanging out at the large public library. From Whittier College's shaded, pastoral setting to the boutique shops and upscale restaurants, you'll have a great day getting to know one of the few communities in Southern California that features an authentic city center where you can park your car and see great sights within walking distance.

1Web-e85aweca6w1m9pf44lvq4ssu1p6pc4ad
Herbie's
Despite the health-conscious image that Southern California has, Whittier is seriously lacking in stores featuring organic, healthy foods, herbs and supplements. Herbie's is an oasis among fast food hangouts and low quality conventional produce in the area's chain grocery stores. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and you can fin... More >
Despite the health-conscious image that Southern California has, Whittier is seriously lacking in stores featuring organic, healthy foods, herbs and supplements. Herbie's is an oasis among fast food hangouts and low quality conventional produce in the area's chain grocery stores. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and you can find just about whatever kind of healthy food or supplement you're looking for. Their produce selection is small but what they do have is always fresh and unique compared to the poor selection of organics in nearby grocery stores. Shop or grab some healthy food to go in their deli, you won't be disappointed.
2Web-sagerestfrontpg
Sage Restaurant & Lounge
The Uptown Whittier commercial district has a handful of special occasion restaurants, and Sage is definitely one of them. Sage offers both lunchtime fare and elegant dinners, so it's not limited to just that occasional celebration in an intimate setting. Come here for a cocktail, or to indulge ieclectic European-Californian cuisine fe... More >
The Uptown Whittier commercial district has a handful of special occasion restaurants, and Sage is definitely one of them. Sage offers both lunchtime fare and elegant dinners, so it's not limited to just that occasional celebration in an intimate setting. Come here for a cocktail, or to indulge ieclectic European-Californian cuisine featuring fondue, seafood and meat specialties.
Despite the health-conscious image that Southern California has, Whittier is seriously lacking in stores featuring organic, healthy foods, herbs and supplements.
3Web-home_450
Radisson-Whittier
For years, Whittier's commercial district lacked a decent hotel and events facility, but the coming of the Radisson changed that. Formerly the Hilton Hotel, this property features event space for weddings and meetings, a lounge and restaurant and high-end amenities including a full service fitness facility and wireless Internet. The ho... More >
For years, Whittier's commercial district lacked a decent hotel and events facility, but the coming of the Radisson changed that. Formerly the Hilton Hotel, this property features event space for weddings and meetings, a lounge and restaurant and high-end amenities including a full service fitness facility and wireless Internet. The hotel is located within walking distance of shops and restaurants in the Uptown Whittier commercial district.
4Web-6358528
Scraparazzi
Forget Michaels, Scraparazzi is a real haven for crafters and scrapbookers. Family owned and operated, this boutique store is more than a place to shop, it's a place to learn, exchange ideas and catch up with friends at weekly crops. They offer weekly classes and get-togethers, and are always available for quick tutorials on how to use... More >
Forget Michaels, Scraparazzi is a real haven for crafters and scrapbookers. Family owned and operated, this boutique store is more than a place to shop, it's a place to learn, exchange ideas and catch up with friends at weekly crops. They offer weekly classes and get-togethers, and are always available for quick tutorials on how to use their endless selection of papers and tools.
5Web-museum4-640
Whittier Museum
Whittier is one of the most historic communities in California, founded in 1898 by peace-loving Quakers. As home to former residents such as Richard Nixon and musician/poet Tom Waits, Whittier has plenty of creativity and talent it has shared with the world. The Whittier Museum is a non-profit organization managed by the Whittier Histo... More >
Whittier is one of the most historic communities in California, founded in 1898 by peace-loving Quakers. As home to former residents such as Richard Nixon and musician/poet Tom Waits, Whittier has plenty of creativity and talent it has shared with the world. The Whittier Museum is a non-profit organization managed by the Whittier Historical Society, where you can learn about everything from the earliest days of the area when Spaniards claimed the region in 1784, to today's contributions made by historic Whittier College. Admission is free, and the building is open for hour-long tours on Saturdays and Sundays (and by appointment during the week).
The Uptown Whittier commercial district has a handful of special occasion restaurants, and Sage is definitely one of them.
Map View Hide Map

About the Author

Rene Agredano
Rene Agredano
Partner, Agreda Communications, and co-founder of Tripawds.com, the world's largest community for three legged dogs and their humans. Seasonal adventure traveler, writer; and seeker of good times, tasty beverages and good people.
Websitefacebook.com/agredano
More Lists by Rene Agredano

Related Lists

×

© 2006 - 2012 Uptake Networks, Inc.

Uptake

Get the best tips and advice by discovering which of your friends have been to Whittier, and also reach our helpful and experienced Uptake travel community. Sign in!

×
Uptake

Did you know that your Internet Explorer is out of date?


To get the best possible experience using our website we recommend that you upgrade to a newer version.

Close