Lakewood(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Lakewood, CA, top budget-friendly options include Comfort Inn & Suites Lakewood, offering free breakfast, indoor pool, and proximity to Lakewood Shopping Center and California State University, Long Beach. Another excellent choice is Holiday Inn Express Lakewood, featuring affordable rates, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour front desk service. Both hotels are located near I-5 Freeway, making them ideal for travelers seeking value and convenience. They also provide free parking and family-friendly amenities, perfect for short stays or business trips.

The best area for hotel stays in Lakewood is along West Lakewood Boulevard, near Olympia Street. This neighborhood offers quiet streets, easy access to parks like Santa Ana Park, and proximity to shopping centers, restaurants, and major highways. It’s also close to I-5 and I-405, making it convenient for traveling to Downtown Los Angeles or Long Beach. Hotels here combine safety, comfort, and accessibility—ideal for both families and business travelers seeking a balanced urban experience.

Yes, Lakewood hosts the annual Lakewood Festival at Santa Ana Park, featuring local art exhibitions, food trucks, live music, and cultural performances. The Lakewood Historical Museum offers insights into the city’s agricultural roots and Latino heritage. Guided community tours reveal stories of early farming communities and traditional crafts. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine such as handmade tacos and tortillas, providing a rich, immersive cultural experience rooted in local identity.

Top attractions in Lakewood, CA include Santa Ana Park, a scenic green space with playgrounds, walking trails, and an outdoor theater. The Lakewood City Hall, with its modern architectural design, often hosts public art displays. Just a 10-minute drive away, Long Beach Shoreline offers ocean views, sunset walks, and access to the Long Beach Pier and Aquarium of the Pacific—perfect for a full-day outing combining nature, culture, and seaside fun.

Yes, Holiday Inn Express Lakewood is a top choice for business travelers, offering a business center, high-speed Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and free breakfast. Located near I-5 Freeway, it provides quick access to LAX Airport and Long Beach business districts. The hotel also features free parking and on-site laundry facilities. Nearby, the Lakewood Business Park hosts numerous corporate offices, making it an ideal base for meetings, conferences, and networking events.

While Lakewood is not known for luxury resorts, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lakewood stands out as the most upscale option. With modern décor, smart TVs, comfortable beds, and a free breakfast buffet, it combines style and practicality. Located on West Lakewood Boulevard, it’s steps from Lakewood Shopping Center and local eateries. The staff consistently receives high praise for hospitality, and the hotel has earned recognition for customer service excellence—making it a favorite among discerning travelers.

Lakewood’s nightlife is relaxed and family-oriented. Brewery 73 is a popular spot for craft beer lovers, featuring locally brewed beers and weekend live music. Lakewood Grill & Bar offers a cozy atmosphere with casual dining and cocktails. For a livelier scene, take a 15-minute drive to Long Beach, where you’ll find vibrant bars, nightclubs, and beachside lounges. These nearby options make Lakewood a great base for those who enjoy low-key evenings with easy access to bigger city entertainment.

Public transit in Lakewood is supported by Metro Local buses, including routes 602 and 608, connecting the city to Long Beach and Downtown Los Angeles. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to transit hubs. However, due to the city’s car-centric layout, renting a vehicle or using ride-sharing apps like Uber is recommended for greater flexibility. Staying near I-5 Freeway entrances ensures easier access to major transit points and surrounding areas.

Best photo spots in Lakewood include the sleek, glass-fronted Lakewood City Hall, ideal for architectural shots. The fountain plaza at Santa Ana Park offers picturesque backdrops with seasonal flowers and water features. West Lakewood Boulevard at dusk showcases colorful streetlights and vintage signage—perfect for street photography. Don’t miss the central courtyard of Lakewood Shopping Center, which often hosts pop-up art installations and live performances, creating dynamic and lively visuals.

Lakewood’s culinary scene shines with authentic Mexican cuisine. Try Taco Loco for fresh handmade tacos and slow-cooked carnitas, or visit El Rancho Mexican Restaurant for traditional grilled meats and corn tortillas. For breakfast, The Breakfast Spot serves fluffy pancakes and smoked ham. Health-conscious visitors will appreciate Green Earth Market, offering organic produce and cold-pressed juices. Weekly farmers’ markets feature local vendors, making it a must-visit for food lovers seeking genuine, homegrown flavors.