Because Carson, California is in the heart of Southern California, there are an almost endless number of activities and attractions that are less than a 30-minute drive from downtown. From theme parks and sports to shopping and the arts, there is something for everyone in and around Carson.
There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy in Carson for a few days. Starting with the Home Depot Center located on Avalon Boulevard. This beautiful stadium is where both the Los Angeles Galaxy soccer team and the Chivas USA team play. As a bonus, soccer legend David Beckham signed a contract with the Galaxy in 2007. If he travels to Carson during the MLS season, he may even see Mr. Beckham play. Another fun sports-related attraction located in Carson is Go Kart World, which was voted the best go-kart destination in the Southern California area. This huge complex offers tracks for toddlers and adults, as well as bumper car tracks and a large arcade. Artist Kanye West has been seen in Go Kart many times, so keep an eye out for him.
Carson is also where the South Bay Pavilion Mall is located. The mall is anchored by stores like Sears, Ikea, JC Penney, and last but not least Target. Other stores located in this mall include The Children’s Place and Big 5. You’ll even find a franchise of one of the most well-known pizza restaurants: Chuck E. Cheese. Dining options at the South Bay Pavilion include Panera Bread, Tony Roma’s, Chili’s and SanSai Japanese Grill. There are also options for antiques in Carson; Be sure to check out the Memory Lanes Antique Mall located in South Figueroa, where you can casually browse through several hundred different antique stores in one place.
Traveling just six miles directly west of Carson will bring you to the Redondo Beach Pier. Here you can spend a day shopping or do fun activities such as kayaking, paddle surfing, diving or surfing. Stay for the night as the pier comes alive at night and is a great place to enjoy dinner and clubbing. Be sure to check the pier calendar when planning your trip, as it hosts free festivals and concerts throughout the year.
Long Beach is located just 15 minutes southeast of Carson and has several fun attractions for the whole family. While you’re in Long Beach, be sure to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific Northeast, the Queen Mary, Seal Beach, Parker’s Lighthouse, and the Museum of Latin American Art. Just across Long Beach you’ll find Knott’s Berry Farm, a 160-acre theme park with 38 rides, as well as a water park. If you’re traveling with kids who love Snoopy, you’ll definitely want to visit the Peanuts-themed part of the park.
Of course, no visit to Carson would be complete without a quick 20-minute drive up north to Los Angeles to see Beverly Hills and Hollywood. Some of the must-see places and activities here include the Getty Museum, the famous Rodeo Drive, Celebrity Homes Bus Tours, Movie Production Studio Tours, LaBrea Tar Pits, Venice Beach, the famous Hollywood Sign, the Chinese Theater and, of course, the Walk of Fame. This is also the area where you will find the Universal Studios park, which offers lots of fun for both children and adults.
Just 26 miles directly east of Carson in Anaheim is Disneyland Park and Resort. This massive complex has grown over the years and now includes the original Disneyland Park, as well as the new Disney California Adventure Park, as well as The Disneyland Resort, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, and the Downtown Disney shopping, dining, and entertainment complex. Also nearby in Anaheim is the Honda Center, where the NHL team, the Mighty Ducks, plays.
Because Carson is conveniently located near the Pacific Ocean, there are plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun at the beach. From Santa Monica, just 30 minutes northwest of Carson, to Sunset Beach, just 30 minutes southeast of Carson, there are a number of great beaches to visit. All of which offer access to the Pacific Ocean, bike, kayak, and surfboard rentals. There are also many companies that offer kayak tours or surf lessons.