20 Best Things to Do in Inglewood, CA

Located south of Los Angeles, Inglewood is a small but exciting city in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

With its proximity to the city's attractions, neighboring cities, and Southern California shores, Inglewood is the perfect destination to experience the best of what Los Angeles offers.

Interested to know more about this place?

Here are the best things to do in Inglewood, CA:

Grab a Sweet Treat at Randy’s Donuts

Considered a Southern California icon, Randy’s has built a cult following of residents and tourists.

Established in 1952, Randy’s started as a mom-and-pop drive-thru, providing Southern Californians fresh donuts and piping hot coffee.

The gigantic donuts on its rooftop have become a cultural icon, appearing in different Hollywood movies and TV shows.

Visitors can enjoy over 60 different flavors and varieties of donuts, from the original glazed raised donut to more funky ones like Fruity Pebbles and Maple Bacon.

Wash the donuts down with a fresh cup of Randy’s roast.

The shop is open 24 hours at West Manchester and La Cienega Boulevards.

It’s the perfect place for a sweet treat and a cup of coffee with family and friends, any time of the day!

Explore Californian History at Centinela Adobe

Located near the San Diego Freeway sits Centinela Adobe, an essential piece of Inglewood history.

Also known as the La Casa de la Centinela, this landmark is a Spanish Colonial style adobe house built in 1934.

It was once the seat of the 25,000-acre Rancho Aguaje de la Centinela, a land grant from the Rancho Sausal Redondo bestowed to Antonio Ygnacio Avila.

The expanse of Avila's original land now encompasses the modern California cities of Redondo Beach, Inglewood, Hawthorne, El Segundo, Hermosa Beach, Lawndale and Manhattan Beach.

At present, the Historical Society of Centinela Valley maintains the Centinela Adobe, preserving the heritage of the beginnings of Inglewood and the way of life in the Spanish Colonial era.

Visitors can see the beauty of the Adobe house through self or guided tours with Historical Society’s volunteers.

Admire the interiors and original artefacts dating back to the house’s olden days.

The front and back lawns are also maintained, making it a perfect space to relax and reflect on the beauty of the Centinela Adobe’s architecture.

See Beautiful City Murals at Grevillea Art Park

Nestled along East Kelso Street in Inglewood is Grevillea Art Park, a collection of murals sprawled in a beautiful green space in the heart of the city.

The “History of Transportation” mural is over eight feet and 240 feet long, consisting of 60 panels spread around the expanse of the park.

It is a piece of mosaic art or tiny little stones stitched together.

The artist Helen Lundeberg created this mural, the largest petachrome mural in the world.

The mural took three years to complete, from 1939 to 1942.

Visitors can take a nice, relaxing walk around the park while admiring the different panels and facets of Lundeberg’s work.

Little plaques are also set up to help explain the history and story behind the different panels of the mural.

It's a unique attraction that merits a visit.

Fill Your Plate at Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles

A familiar LA staple, Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles has cemented itself as a pop culture icon, being a favorite haunt of famous Hollywood celebrities and local Californians.

Stars like Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen have graced the restaurants’ doors.

Its name has also appeared in pop songs.

Roscoe lives up to the hype with a delicious American comfort food menu.

Get their signature Scoe’s, the fried chicken and waffle plate, the meat seasoned with their signature blend and the waffle batter made from scratch in-house.

Try other comfort favorites such as Sir Michael and Lord Harvey, fried chicken served with fluffy hot biscuits and house-made gravy.

Roscoe’s is an excellent place for a hearty meal in Inglewood.

Catch a Show at the Kia Forum

Catching live entertainment is a must in the land of the stars!

An iconic venue in Southern California, the Kia Forum is a premier events arena that has hosted big names such as Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, and Diana Ross & the Supremes.

Located in the heart of Inglewood, the Kia Forum hosts excellent shows from the regular line-up of events on its website.

Alternately, there are multiple concessions offering food and drinks that you can enjoy before or while waiting for the show to start.

The space features ample parking, so visitors don’t have to worry about not finding a space before catching a show.

Don’t miss the Kia Forum on a trip to Inglewood!

Have a Family Day at Edward Vincent Jr. Park

In the northern part of Inglewood is Edward Vincent Jr. Park, a welcome green haven within the city’s suburbs.

The park is a great place to spend quality time with family and friends; it's also a great place to bring your furry friends.

The park is an over 55-acre expanse containing multiple play areas, picnic areas, sports facilities, and a swimming pool.

Enjoy a hike or a game of soccer or tennis on the park’s sprawling lawns.

Visitors can set up mats for a nice picnic at the park.

Within the park’s premises are two city landmarks that people can also visit: Centinela Springs and the Veterans Memorial Building.

Try Your Luck at the Hollywood Park Casino

Located along West Century Boulevard, the Hollywood Park Casino is a premiere destination for those looking for a taste of Vegas in Inglewood.

Originally part of the Hollywood Park Racetrack, the casino moved to its present location when the track ceased to operate in 2013.

Visitors can spend their time playing games on the facility’s 125 poker and California games.

However, you can only play card games within the confines of the casino area.

Besides betting big, customers can also get some refreshments at the different dining options at Hollywood Park Casino.

Visitors have an option to eat heavier American favorites at the Century Bar & Grill or enjoy a cocktail or two at the Raise Lounge.

Alternatively, card game enthusiasts can also join or catch tournaments in the casino.

Come and see how the pros win big!

Grab a Cuppa at Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen

Located on North La Brea Avenue, Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen is a great place to relax, enjoy a meal and people-watch on a visit to the city.

Hilltop Coffee is open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and serves American brunch favorites and a few fusion dishes.

Order a hearty breakfast burrito, a classic tuna melt, or their healthy bowl mixes.

Of course, don’t forget to order a cup or two of a heaping hot cup of coffee to cap off your meal.

Watch a Game at SoFi Stadium

Sports lovers rejoice!

SoFi Stadium is the place to enjoy live sports in Inglewood.

The iconic stadium is the home of various sporting events in the area.

From college and pro football to wrestling matches, the SoFi Stadium offers a great variety of shows to fuel all kinds of sports fans!

The stadium also hosts music events and concerts, accommodating over 70,000 seats.

Recent performances include South Korean boy band BTS and Canadian pop star Justin Bieber.

Besides sports and live entertainment, SoFi Stadium hosts events such as art exhibits and smaller conventions.

There’s not a dull moment in SoFi Stadium!

Don’t forget to put it on your to-do list when in Inglewood.

Enjoy a Hearty Meal at Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen

The “King of Soul Food” Adolf Dulan opened this restaurant, which has become a favorite haunt of locals looking for a plate of Southern comfort fare.

Initially from Oklahoma, Dulan worked in various food businesses before starting his soul food restaurant in 1999.

His business has served quality soul food to Inglewood residents and visitors for over 40 years.

The restaurant has received accolades like the Top Small Business Award, Community Based Business Award, and Small Businessman of the Year.

Visitors have to try the variety at Dulan’s Soul Food.

Order a plate of their fresh and crispy fried chicken with a decadent mac and cheese side.

Also, get other favorites like the oxtails, short ribs, meatloaf and smothered pork chops.

Don’t forget to order the popular Southern sides such as collard greens, corn muffins and black-eyed peas.

You’ll walk out of Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen feeling full and happy.

Lounge by the Beer Garden at Three Weavers Brewing Company

Three Weavers Brewing Company brings together the taste of Inglewood in an artisan beer mug.

Founded in 2013, what was once a small independent business became one of Los Angeles County's largest breweries.

With a collection of 12-18 beers on tap at its tasting room, you have a wide selection of craft beverages to try out.

Some of its household servings include ales, ipas, and flavored drinks.

Its outdoor beer garden allows you to catch up with friends while feeling the serenity and elegant ambiance of the place.

You can find Three Weavers Brewing Company on West Manchester Boulevard.

Join a Gun Firing Training Class at LAX Firing Range

Tired of the same old sports and activities while visiting a new city?

That will never happen when you come by LAX Firing Range.

This facility on West Manchester Boulevard is your ticket for a unique recreational experience and an added skill bonus.

It offers fourteen 25-yard-long firing ranges for practice sessions.

Its collection of guns ranges from handguns to shotguns, so you have a variety to choose from.

And you'll be working with some of the best certified NRA instructors in the country.

Start your firearms training at LAX Firing Range while in Inglewood!

Acquaint Yourself with Inglewood’s Royalties at Inglewood Park Cemetery

A cemetery may seem like an unlikely attraction.

But if you're a fan of Ella Fitzgerald and other artists of her era, you'll think Inglewood Park Cemetery is a must-visit.

This cemetery has the nickname, Soul of the City of Angels.

This is because of the site's breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and magnificent architectural pieces.

Among its notable structures are the Garden of Ages with its small stream and the Gardens of Shakespeare.

Its stained glass art installations are worth an experience, too!

But perhaps, what makes this site different from other cemeteries in the area is its list of famous figures entombed or buried onsite.

Aside from Ella Fitzgerald, you'll also find the burial sites of restaurateur Caesar Cardini and actress Betty Grable within Inglewood Park Cemetery.

You can find this historical landmark on East Florence Avenue.

Admire the Public Artworks All Over Inglewood

Never run out of artistic muse while in Inglewood!

Just by strolling the streets of this city and meeting face-to-face with its murals and public artworks, you'll find inspiration!

Jack Zajac's Incomplete Conch Shell artwork should make for a good first stop.

This surrealistic art is in front of the City Hall on West Manchester Boulevard.

Murals Pathways to Success on West Beach Avenue and Inglewood Stories are also eye-catching in their own right.

On another note, Cabinet of Wonder on North Locust Street is a contemporary art piece that reflects the city's treasures and heritage.

And there's more for you to explore and admire within the streets of Inglewood.

Dive Deep into the Culture of Inglewood at Juneteenth Street Festival

If you have a free schedule in June, you might want to join Taste of Inglewood's Juneteenth Street Festival.

This annual festival is a celebration of the diverse food and culture that the city offers to its residents and tourists.

It also aims to reintroduce the social evolution that the city has undergone for the past years.

Jam to live music while munching on tasty snacks and meals.

Bring your whole family for maximum fun, too!

Make your way to Market Street for Juneteenth Street Festival.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Explore the Beautiful Campus at the University of Southern California

Located in the heart of LA is the University of Southern California, one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

Its campus is also iconic in its own right, covering over 300 acres.

Visitors can explore the grounds and experience a little bit of the campus life of USC students.

The different buildings showcase majestic architecture; some of the buildings date back over 140 years ago.

The Zumberge Hall is an example of one of the original buildings on the University Park campus.

Some buildings are also backdrops for various Hollywood TV shows and movies, such as the Doheny Library and the Center for International and Public Affairs.

College sports enthusiasts can also catch a game at the Galen Center, USC basketball and volleyball home.

Taste LA’s Best at the Original Farmer’s Market

A favorite LA destination that has operated since 1934, the Original Farmer’s Market is where you can try the best and freshest of LA’s local vendors and businesses.

There are over 100 stalls to choose from at the market, serving everything from fresh fruit juices, clam chowder, Mediterranean food, donuts and more.

Spend the day going through the different stalls and trying out all the food options.

You definitely should get here with a grumbling stomach, ready to try all the great grub!

Besides the food, selected stalls also offer souvenirs and grocery items.

Grab a bottle of truffle oil or an antique decorative plate.

Pocket events also happen at the farmer’s market’s grounds, from live entertainment to community celebrations.

Located along West 3^rd Street, the Original Farmer’s Market is also a short distance away from another iconic LA destination, the Grove.

Engage Your Inner Explorer at the California Science Center

The California Science Center in Los Angeles is an excellent destination for curious minds and scientific explorers.

The expanse of the center and the multiple exhibits are excellent places for families to bond and learn new things.

The center is open 362 days a year, and you can enter the four major exhibit areas without charge.

Visitors can explore the different areas and exhibits, such as the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, Roy A. Anderson Blackbird Exhibit and Garden, and the Different Discover Rooms.

There is also an IMAX Theater in the area, bringing the universe's story from a single atom to life.

Besides the permanent features, the center displays rotating exhibits.

Explore Kenneth Hanh Park

Located along La Cienega Boulevard is Kenneth Hanh Park, a 400-acre green expanse that welcomes both locals and tourists of Southern California.

Established in 1984, the park has earned the title of “LA’s Central Park” due to its location and abundance of activities.

Hike the trails and see iconic spots throughout, such as the Hollywood sign, downtown LA, and the Santa Monica Mountains.

The park is also perfect for picnics, with over 100 picnic tables and areas spread throughout.

The park also features a Japanese Garden, complete with the styled streams and waterfall.

A basketball court and a sand volleyball court are available for use for sports enthusiasts and active visitors.

Have a fun day in the Southern Californian sun at Kenneth Hanh Park!

Bask in the Sun at Venice Beach

Around a 20-minute drive to the coast is Venice Beach, one of the most iconic and well-known beaches in Southern California.

Popular with locals and tourists alike, thousands of people come to Venice Beach to experience the laid-back and eclectic LA lifestyle.

Visitors can walk along the oceanfront boardwalk, famously appearing in movies and TV shows.

You can do many things at the beach, from paddle tennis, beach volleyball, bike trails, and even skate dancing.

There are also lots of food options available around, from a bite of an LA hotdog or a nice cold scoop of ice cream to enjoy on a hot summer day.

No trip in Southern California is complete without a visit to Venice Beach!

Final Thoughts

With its proximity to Los Angeles and West Coast beaches, Inglewood is a great destination in Southern California.

There is still a lot to see in the small but bustling town with abundant nature and pockets of old West history.

Plan your trip to Inglewood today!