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Whittier sits in the foothills of the Puente Hills on the southeastern edge of Los Angeles County, about 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles. It was founded in 1887 by Quakers and named for the Quaker poet John Greenleaf Whittier, and the same year saw the founding of Whittier College. The town grew among citrus and walnut groves and was incorporated in 1898.
Nearby stands Pio Pico State Historic Park, preserving the adobe home of Pio Pico, the last governor of Mexican California. Uptown Whittier along Greenleaf Avenue keeps a charming small town feel, with shady trees, historic storefronts, restaurants and the Art Deco Whittier Village Cinemas. Richard Nixon studied at Whittier College and began his law career in the city.
The Whittier Greenway Trail follows an old railroad line across town, while the Puente Hills Habitat Preserve offers trails through Hellman Park and Turnbull Canyon with views from the mountains to the ocean.
Whittier's historic downtown along Greenleaf Avenue and Philadelphia Street, with older buildings, restaurants, cafes, bars, antique shops and a Friday farmers market. Murals and plaques tell the city's Quaker history. Park in the free public lots and stroll Greenleaf Avenue in the evening.
The adobe home of Pio Pico, the last governor of Mexican California, set in a small park by the San Gabriel River. The restored house has displays on his life and the era. It is open on limited days with free admission; check hours, and allow about an hour for a visit.
A 19th-century house that belonged to Jonathan Bailey, one of Whittier's Quaker founders, kept as a house museum with period rooms. It shows life in early Whittier. Tours are offered on limited days by the city, so check ahead; it sits near Uptown Whittier, which makes it easy to combine.
A local history museum run by the Whittier Historical Society, with a recreated early 1900s main street, exhibits on the Quaker founding, citrus and oil industries, and Richard Nixon's time in Whittier. It opens only certain days a week; check the hours before you go.
A private liberal arts college founded by Quakers in 1887, on a hilly campus near Uptown. Richard Nixon graduated from here. It hosts public lectures, art exhibits and performances. Visitors can walk the campus; check the events calendar and visitor parking rules before arriving.
One of the largest cemeteries in North America, set on rolling hills above Whittier. It is also known for the Pageant of Roses Garden, with thousands of rose bushes, and a Japanese garden. Visitors may walk the gardens respectfully; spring is the best time to see the roses in bloom.
A wilderness park in the Puente Hills above Whittier with steep trails to ridgetop views of the Los Angeles Basin, downtown towers and on clear days Catalina Island. It is a favorite for local hikers. Parking is limited at the trailhead on Greenleaf Avenue, so arrive early and bring water.
A paved trail on a former railroad line running about 4.5 miles across Whittier, used for walking, running and cycling. It is lit at night, landscaped, and links several parks and Uptown. It is flat and easy for families; bring water in summer, as shade varies along the way.
A canyon in the Puente Hills north of Whittier with fire roads and trails to ridgelines with sweeping views. It is popular with hikers, runners and mountain bikers, and has local ghost legends. Trails are exposed and steep; go early, carry water, and watch for cyclists on shared paths.
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California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
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