27 Fun Things to Do in Torrance, California

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There are so many great things to do in Torrance, California, it can be hard to know where to start! From sprawling beaches and parks to world-class shopping and dining, this SoCal city has something for everyone.

Often overlooked by the other beach cities, there are many hidden gems and incredible places to go that are definitely worth exploring! From someone who grew up and lives in Torrance, here are some of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon or weekend in Torrance.

Jump to…
• Best Things to Do in Torrance
• Things to Do in Old Town Torrance
• Best Shopping in Torrance
• Free Things to Do in Torrance
• Best Outdoor Things to Do in Torrance
• Fun Things to Do in Torrance at Night
• Best Restaurants in Torrance
• Where to Stay in Torrance
• How to Get Around Torrance

 

Best Things to Do in Torrance, California

1. Shop at the Del Amo Fashion Center

Del Amo Mall is one of the largest malls in the United States (in the top 10) with over 200 stores. It has pretty much everything you could ever need! From high-end stores such as Coach, Kate Spade, and Nordstroms to your classics such as H&M and Hollister.

The mall was recently remodeled and upgraded for a luxury shopping experience, no matter your taste. You could spend a whole day exploring and shopping at the stores, stopping to dine at fantastic restaurants (such as the Lazy Dog Cafe), or catching a movie at the AMC Movie Theater.

If you’re looking for a specific store, check the Del Amo Mall store directory HERE.

2. Pick up Local Goods From the Torrance Certified Farmers’ Market

The Torrance Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for fresh, local produce and handmade goods. With produce from over 60 California farms and dozens of other vendors, there’s something for everyone at this market.

You’ll find everything from fruits and vegetables to fresh cut flowers and baked goods. Make sure to try some of the local foods such as nut butter and milk or delicious hummus. If you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of yummy food stalls to choose from serving up hot meals. Be sure to try the kettle corn – it’s the best you might ever have!

Located right next to Wilson Park, the Farmers’ Market is the perfect place to start your day. Grab food from the market for a fresh picnic lunch and enjoy the park!

The market is open at Wilson Park on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8am to 1pm.

3. Catch an Event at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center

The Cultural Arts Center in Torrance is a beautiful venue and hosts a range of events. There’s a gorgeous Japanese Garden onsite that makes for a beautiful backdrop for weddings, or a lovely place to wander through during events. The gardens feature authentic Japanese landscaping and architecture, including two waterfalls and a koi pond.

The highlight of the Torrance Cultural Arts Center is the Armstrong Theater. The theater hosts both professional and community productions, large-scale meetings, film screenings, and seminars. 

To see what events are on at the Arts Center, check here.

4. View the South Bay From Above with a Flight Out of Torrance Airport

Looking for an amazing way to see the sights of Los Angeles? Then look no further than a helicopter tour from the Torrance airport over the whole of the South Bay! This is probably one of the most incredible things you could do while spending time in Torrance.

The modern fleet of helicopters allows for a 360-degree view of the city on this private tour. You’ll be able to take in all the iconic landmarks of the area, from Palos Verdes to the Redondo Beach Pier and beyond. You’ll be blown away by the beauty of it all while experienced pilots make sure you have a smooth and safe flight.

The Torrance Municipal Airport (Zamperini Field) is a general aviation airport located in the city of Torrance, California. The airport covers an area of approximately 543 based aircraft. Home to primarily private aircraft, it’s a unique thing to do in Torrance simply to visit the airfield and see some of the old-school and well-crafted planes.

I highly recommend this tour, as do many other people who have enjoyed the incredible views and commentary over the South Bay.

❗CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION + AVAILABILITY❗

5. Stop by the Western Museum of Flight

The Western Museum of Flight is a must-see for any aviation enthusiast. Located at Zamperini Field in Torrance, the museum is home to a wide variety of aircraft, from early gliders to modern jets. WMOF is operated by the Southern California Historical Aviation Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in the region.

In addition to the aircraft on display, the museum also features a library and research center, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about the role of aviation in the development of the West.

Zamperini Field is named for Louis Zamperini, a resilient American World War II veteran and Olympic distance runner who grew up in Torrance and went to Torrance High School.

Museum Hours are Friday to Monday from 10am to 3pm.

6. Shop at Mitsuwa Japanese Market

Mitsuwa Marketplace is a popular spot for foodies in search of authentic Japanese cuisine. Located in the food court of the marketplace, the food stalls offer a variety of Japanese-style dishes, including ramen, sushi, and tempura. One of the most popular items on the menu is the mochi-style donut.

The grocery and deli sections offer a wide variety of Japanese foods such as sauces, rice, beer, sake, meats, sushi, and dry goods. The store is sure to become a favorite among those who love Japanese cuisine.

Mitsuwa recently opened up a new location at the Del Amo Mall that is futuristic and sleek. Thanks to Mitsuwa Marketplace, it’s now easier than ever to enjoy authentic Japanese food.

And just a few minutes away you can find a Korean market, Hannam Chain – Market World. It features Korean produce and delicacies from meats to kimchi and yummy snacks.

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Things to Do in Old Town Torrance

Torrance’s historic downtown is a charming destination, populated with historic buildings that house a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a stroll down streets lined with trees and take in the sights of old-fashioned storefronts. You’ll find everything from antique stores to art galleries and clothing boutiques. Stop by the Torrance Historical Society (housed in a 1936 library) for a museum with permanent and rotating local history exhibits and archives.

There’s something for everyone in downtown Torrance! The restaurants and cafes are bustling with people enjoying good food and good company. There’s a warm and inviting atmosphere downtown, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.

7. Stop for a Sweet Treat at the Torrance Bakery

Mmm – just thinking about Torrance Bakery reminds me of yummy birthday desserts and after-school treats!

Torrance Bakery is a family-owned and operated establishment that has been serving delicious baked goods to the community since 1984. When you walk by, you can see an array of beautiful wedding cakes in the window, each one more intricate than the last.

Torrance Bakery isn’t just about their wedding cakes; they also do custom cakes for any occasion. And if you’re just looking for a quick treat, their brownie pops and variety of donuts are perfect. No matter what you’re looking for, Torrance Bakery is sure to have something that will tantalize your tastebuds.

8. Step Into a Movie Scene at Torrance High School

A high school is a weird thing to put on a must-see list, but when you go to school in Los Angeles county, there’s a good chance it’s been featured in a movie or two! Torrance High School has been a move set for popular shows including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, She’s All That, and 90210 (the original).

Established in 1917, it’s a beautiful campus with a lot of history and some of the most recognizable architecture in the city. Marvel at the front of the school, and wander past the front gates to the right where you will see the water fountain and quad where scenes were filmed to create Sunnydale High.

Just make sure to be respectful of school hours!

Best Shopping in Torrance

Beyond the massive Del Amo Mall, there are plenty of other places around Torrance to do some shopping. Here are a few of the best places.

9. Torrance Antique Street Faire

Located in Old Town Torrance, the Torrance Antique Street Fair is a fun way to shop for some unique and specialty items. With over 200 vendors, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for jewelry, succulents, clothes, or collectibles.

The best part of the fair is the unbeatable prices! You can find deals on everything from vintage clothes to one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of food trucks on hand and local restaurants to keep you fueled up for a day of bargain hunting.

Torrance Antique Street Fair hours are the 4th Sunday of the month from 8am to 3pm.

10. Riviera Village

Located just a block or two up from the beach, the Riviera Village has really grown and become a local hot spot over the last few years. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon whether you’re looking for some retail therapy or a bite to eat. There are plenty of boutique shops to explore, and my personal favorite is Beach DNA. They have an adorable selection of clothes and jewelry.

After wandering through the shops, the Riviera is the perfect place to stop for a snack or happy hour drink. If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Kalaveras is the place to go. They serve margarita pitchers that are perfect for groups. Or, Rebel Republic is also a great option for unbeatable happy hour specials.

>>> RELATED POST: 29 Fantastic Things to Do in Redondo Beach, CA

Free Things to Do in Torrance

11. Explore the Madrona Marsh

Torrance’s Madrona Marsh is a 43-acre seasonal wetland that’s great for birdwatching and spotting other local wildlife. Exploring the Marsh is a great thing to do with kids in Torrance, they will love getting up close to nature, where they might see everything from spiders and frogs to reptiles and small mammals.

The Madrona Marsh Preserve is also home to several different kinds of plants, so it’s a perfect place to learn about the area’s vegetation. Staff and volunteers often offer nature walks, docent tours, bird watching, and more. And don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some of the incredible views!

 Check out the Visitor’s Center to learn more and see what events are happening. The Center offers many educational programs and workshops, along with housing laboratories, books, and other aids to understanding this unique habitat.

12. Marvel at the Torrance Art Museum

The Torrance Art Museum is passionate about contemporary art from Southern California and works hard to bring local and international artists together in its galleries. It does an excellent job of inspiring understanding and appreciation of the visual arts among community members.

The museum has two galleries that focus specifically on contemporary art from Southern California, and these galleries rotate regularly to showcase new artists. Local artists are given priority, but the museum also features international artists from time to time. This makes for a great experience for all visitors, as they are able to see a variety of different styles and mediums.

Museum Hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm.

13. View the Pieces at Chen Art Gallery

The Chen Art Gallery is a non-profit museum located within Sunrider International. The gallery houses an impressive array of over 1,000 artifacts spanning 5,000 years of Chinese history, making it one of the largest collections of Asian and Chinese art in North America.

The collection includes a wide range of objects, from ancient pottery to contemporary paintings, and is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about Chinese culture and history. In addition to the permanent collection, the Chen Art Gallery also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and public events.

 

Best Outdoor Things to Do in Torrance

14. Spend a Day at Torrance RAT Beach

RAT Beach (Redondo and Torrance) is one of the best places to spend a day in Southern California. There’s plenty to do, whether you want to walk along the strand, bring a volleyball to play on the sandy beach, or just sit back and relax with lunch from the snack shack (technically called Perry’s Café & Beach Rentals).

Of course, the main attraction is the water. The waves are perfect for body surfing or boogie boarding, and the sunsets are simply breathtaking. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy the water, or just want to soak up some sun, Torrance beach is the perfect spot.

The parking at Torrance Beach is also the most consistent in the South Bay. There’s a large parking lot right at RAT Beach (it costs about $7, give or take depending on the season), parking meters that run along Esplanade, and even some free parking to be found on the streets that run perpendicular to the ocean.

15. Try Surfing

Surfing in the South Bay is an experience of its own and one of the best outdoor activities in Torrance! The waves at Torrance Beach are usually not too big, so it’s a good spot for beginners. And the water is decent all year round – though you will need a wetsuit outside of the summer months.

You can surf pretty much anywhere along Torrance Beach, however, the best spots in the area are at Haggerty’s (towards the peninsula at RAT Beach) and the Topaz Street jetty.

If you’re interested in taking a lesson (which I HIGHLY recommend for beginners and surfers new to the area), head to Redondo Beach. There are several surf schools there that can help you get started.

❗CLICK HERE FOR INFO ON SURF LESSONS IN REDONDO BEACH❗

16. Bike Along the Strand

The South Bay of Los Angeles is home to some of the best beaches in the city. And what better way to enjoy them than by bike? The Strand is a 22-mile bike path that runs along the ocean, starting at Torrance Beach (at the base of the Palos Verdes Peninsula) and stretching north all the way up to Santa Monica. It hits all of LA’s most popular beaches along the way, including all of the South Bay beaches.

You can rent a bike at Perry’s Beach Rentals on the sand and take it up the Strand as far as you can go. For a real challenge, pack a lunch and try to make it all the way up to Santa Monica and back!

17. Explore Wilson Park

Wilson Park is a great option for things to do in Torrance! The park has a playground for kids, a basketball court, picnic areas with BBQs and picnic tables, and it sometimes hosts community events such as yoga or Zumba. There are also volleyball, paddle tennis, pickleball, and tennis courts, as well as softball diamonds.

The park spans 44.1 acres, so there’s plenty of space to explore. Kids especially love climbing through the giant wooden treehouse in the park. Whether you’re looking to get some exercise or just relax in the sunshine, Wilson Park is a great choice!

18. Have a Picnic at Miramar Park

Pack a picnic (or grab food to-go from one of the restaurants in the Riviera) and head to the beautiful Miramar Park. This picturesque park offers stunning views of the beach and ocean, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends.

Best of all, it’s pet-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along for the fun! After your picnic lunch, take a walk along the Esplanade for some of the best beach views in the South Bay and a relaxing thing to do in Torrance.

Fun Things to Do in Torrance at Night

19. Go Brewery Hopping

Torrance is a great place to visit for anyone who loves craft beer. It doesn’t have the most exciting nightlife if you’re looking for a wild night out (for that you’ll need to head to Hermosa Beach), but it does have great breweries, and they all have pretty good beer and a fun atmosphere. Torrance has the best breweries in the South Bay, each with its own unique style and personality.

Here are the best breweries in Torrance to try:

• Smog City Brewery & Taproom (my personal favorite, they always have yummy food trucks)
• Monkish Brewing Co.
• Yorkshire Square Brewery & Pub (good English beers)
• Absolution Brewing Co. (more low-key, but has a fun games room)
• The Dude’s Brewing Co.
• Red Car Brewery & Restaurant
• The Brews Hall – Del Amo (more of a restaurant, they have good bar food and boozy milkshakes!)

20. Get Competitive at Dave and Buster’s

Dave and Buster’s is a great place to take the family for a night of fun things to do. With a sports bar atmosphere and plenty of games to choose from, everyone is sure to find something they enjoy.

From classic arcade games to new virtual reality experiences, there is something for everyone at Dave and Buster’s. In addition, the food menu features a variety of items to satisfy any appetite. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, Dave and Buster’s has you covered. With its convenient location at the Del Amo Mall in Torrance, Dave and Buster’s is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with the family.

21. Have a Mezcal Cocktail at Madre! Oaxacan Restaurant

A great date night spot (it’s become one of my boyfriend’s and my favorites) in Torrance is Madre! It’s an Oaxacan food restaurant and Mezcaleria with delicious food and fantastic mezcal cocktails.

The ambiance is cozy and perfect for a date night. The menu has tons of different things to choose from, so you’re sure to find something you both love. And of course, the cocktails are a must-try. They have a wide selection of mezcals to choose from and the bartenders are always coming up with new and creative cocktails.

22. Find Live Music at Keegan’s Sports Lounge & Grill

A great place to unwind after a long week. Keegan’s offers karaoke every Friday night, so you can let loose and sing your heart out. They also show all the major sporting events on their big screen TVs, so you can cheer on your favorite team.

Keegan’s is a great place to catch up with friends and have some fun. And if you happen to be looking for things to do in Torrance on St. Patrick’s Day, Keegan’s goes all out with a fun celebration!

23. Go for Ice Cream or Boba

One of the most typical things to do in Torrance at night is to stop for ice cream or boba. For ice cream, head to Handel’s on PCH. This is a local favorite ice cream shop and it’s even been listed as #1 in the world!

Handel’s always has unique flavors (my favorite is their oreo-dough) and they usually have discounted scoops on Tuesdays.

PRO TIP: Take your Handel’s ice cream and sit in the parking lot above RAT beach to enjoy the sunset and nighttime beach views.

Boba Tea is a popular treat in Torrance. A few of the best places to find boba are: Drinks and Tea Torrance, Presotea Torrance, or Teaspoon.

24. Admire the Lights at Rocketship Park

The Los Arboles Rocketship Park in the Torrance base of the Palos Verdes Peninsula is famous for its sweeping views of the South Bay. On a clear night, you can even see all the way out to Long Beach and Los Angeles. The best way to experience these views is to embrace your inner child and climb up to sit in the giant rocket ship!

Best Restaurants in Torrance

There’s a lot of great dining in Torrance. The best places to eat are at the Del Amo Mall, anywhere along the Riviera, Old Town Torrance, or the Rolling Hills Plaza.

25. Best Mexican Food in Torrance: La Capilla

Located in Old Town Torrance, La Capilla is one of my family’s favorite Mexican restaurants. They have great food with our favorites being the enchiladas, fajitas, and chimichangas. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it one of the best restaurants around. Make sure to try one of their delicious margaritas!

26. Best Italian Food in Torrance: Scardino’s Italian Restaurant

This little hole-in-the-wall restaurant is family owned and operated. Scardino’s serves up authentic Italian recipes that are sure to please, their pasta dishes are definitely incredible.

If you’re looking for something to wash it all down with, they’ve got a wine list that’s second to none. Plus, they’ve got a dog-friendly patio where you can enjoy your meal with your furry friend.

27. Best Brunch in Torrance: OPH and Kings Hawaiian

Did you know that Torrance was the first place Kings Hawaiian popped up after spreading out of Hawaii? Starting in 1977, they opened their first factory in Torrance, CA, and the full-service Bakery & Restaurant soon after.

The unique selection of local Hawaiian foods and traditional American dishes, as well as the fresh baked goods, makes King’s Hawaiian one of the South Bay’s most popular brunch spots.

The Original Pancake House (OPH) is always a popular choice for things to do in Torrance on the weekends. The pancakes are some of the biggest and most fluffy around, and the line is always out the door.

However, the wait is definitely worth it. From their classic buttermilk pancakes to their creative seasonal offerings, there’s always time for a delicious breakfast or brunch before exploring Torrance.

>>> MORE: 21 Best Restaurants in Torrance!

Where to Stay in Torrance, California

⭐ Bluestem Hotel Torrance

An Art Deco hotel in the heart of Torrance. It’s a superb property for such a great price point. It’s a newer boutique hotel and definitely a hidden gem with a lovely terrace, modern rooms, and friendly staff.

Location: Very central, great for quick access to the beach, mall, and Old Town.

❗CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION + AVAILABILITY❗

⭐ Miyako Hybrid Hotel Torrance

This is a quiet 4-star hotel with a spa and excellent ratings. The Ise-Shima restaurant onsite specializes in Japanese cuisine. Plus, you can enjoy happy hour drinks at the bar.

Location: On the further end of Torrance, closest to Old Town Torrance and most convenient to the freeway.

❗CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION + AVAILABILITY❗

⭐ Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach

A lovely, modern hotel with an indoor and outdoor pool and a restaurant: 21 Square Bar + Kitchen. This is great for a standard, comfortable stay with all the amenities you might need.

Location: Central location, within walking distance of the Del Amo Mall.

❗CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION + AVAILABILITY❗

For more options,  You can use the map below to compare locations and pricing. This interactive map is AMAZING, it pulls the best deals from across many different booking platforms. Use the filters to adjust for your budget and preference!  

 

Top Things to Do in the South Bay Los Angeles

There is plenty to do surrounding Torrance and throughout the whole of the South Bay. Dance the night away in Hermosa Beach, experience fine-dining with an ocean view in Manhattan Beach, or catch one of the many fun events.

One of the best places to explore pristine southern California beaches, delicious restaurants, and fun activities; for my full guide on the best things to do in the South Bay, click below:

How to Get Around Torrance

The easiest way to get around in Torrance is to drive. If you were staying by the mall you could pretty easily walk around the mall area. Or, if you had a bike you could get around by bike.

There is a Torrance bus system as well if you want to try and take the public bus around town. However, I’m honestly not too familiar with it because we tend to drive everywhere out of convenience. Uber and Lyft are active in the area as well.

Otherwise, everything is spread out just enough that driving is more convenient. Plus, if you want to leave the South Bay to explore the rest of the LA and OC areas, it will be best to have a car.

👉 If you want to rent a car, I recommend and use DiscoverCars while traveling. They compare prices across rental companies to provide you with the BEST deals and LOWEST prices.

❗Make sure to book your car ASAP so there’s availability! (You might have to pick up in Los Angeles)

 

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Torrance, California, look no further! This city has something for everyone, from beaches and parks to museums and restaurants. There’s always something new to explore in this vibrant community. So why not visit Torrance today? You won’t be disappointed!

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Related Posts on Things to Do in the South Bay:
 Manhattan Beach
 Hermosa Beach
 Redondo Beach
 Palos Verdes Peninsula
 Hawthorne