Located in Los Angeles County and just east of Downtown Los Angeles, Monterey Park, California is home to some of the most vibrant cultures in the United States.
The history of Monterey Park dates back to 1771 when Spanish settlers founded Mission San Gabriel Arcángel. The region was then primarily used for agriculture until after World War II, when it became a popular residential area for veterans returning from service abroad. During that time, many Chinese immigrants began settling here due to its proximity to downtown LA – creating what is now known as the first suburb of Chinatown or Chengdu Village.
Today, visitors can explore dozens of cultural landmarks such as Garfield Medical Center (the first hospital opened by a Chinese American doctor) and the Pacific Asia Museum which houses over 15,000 ancient artifacts from China and Japan. Other attractions include shopping centers like Atlantic Square Mall where travelers can find items ranging from traditional Asian cuisine to local boutiques featuring handmade jewelry and clothing pieces.
Visitors also enjoy exploring nature at Garvey Ranch Observatory or even take a leisurely stroll along Las Tunas Drive – lined with numerous restaurants showcasing flavors from all corners of East Asia! Whether you’re looking for delicious food or interesting activities, there’s something for everyone in historic Monterey Park.