3 Days Itinerary for South El Monte, California

• Day 1 - Explore the City Center
  South El Monte is a charming city located in the San Gabriel Valley. Spend the first day exploring its center. Start with a walk in the New Temple Park to enjoy beautiful scenery and some fresh air. Then, visit the South El Monte Historical Museum to learn about the history and culture of the city. Afterwards, enjoy some shopping at the Montebello Town Center, which has a variety of stores and restaurants to experience.
• Day 2 - Enjoy Nature, Food and Culture
  The second day can begin with a trip to the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, a beautiful park that is also an excellent spot for birdwatching. After this, explore the fascinating Arcadia Wilderness Park, which is located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, and offers numerous hiking trails. In the evening, head to the San Gabriel Square, which is a must-visit destination for culinary and cultural experiences.
• Day 3 - Relax and Unwind
  Spend the last day relaxing in the city. Head to the Parnell Park that features picnic areas and hiking trails. After this, make your way to the Rio Hondo Golf Club for a relaxing round of golf. In the evening, stroll the famous Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden and enjoy its magnificent landscapes that feature plants from around the world.

Time and Costs Estimates

• New Temple Park (1-2 hours, free)
• South El Monte Historical Museum (1-2 hours, free)
• Montebello Town Center (2-4 hours, varies)
• Whittier Narrows Recreation Area (2-4 hours, free)
• Arcadia Wilderness Park (2-4 hours, free)
• San Gabriel Square (2-4 hours, varies)
• Parnell Park (1-2 hours, free)
• Rio Hondo Golf Club (3-4 hours, varies)
• Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden (2-4 hours, varies)
• Total Estimated Costs: varies depending on activities and budget

Transportation

Getting around South El Monte is best done by car. The city isn't very walkable, and public transport is limited. Rental cars are available at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The average car rental costs around $35-50 per day, but prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Uber and Lyft are also available in the city, but costs can add up quickly, so it's best to reserve them only for short rides.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Watts Towers in Los Angeles, which is an excellent opportunity to see a unique collection of sculptural art. If you have less time, adjust the itinerary by skipping nonessential locations. Also, make sure to check the hours of your selected destinations as some may operate under unique schedules or be temporarily closed, especially during holidays or renovations.