Bell Gardens, located between the Los Angeles River and the Rio Hondo, is a historic neighborhood in Southeastern LA County known for its urban charm and variety of attractions. The area has transitioned from a farming community to a bustling metropolis with a strong economy driven by leisure, hospitality, education, health, retail, and manufacturing sectors. The Parkwest Casino, one of the largest poker casinos globally, is a significant employer and tourist draw. Residents enjoy outdoor activities at John Anson Ford Park, which features a lake, hiking trails, and a sports center, and Bell Gardens Veterans Park, offering walking trails and sports fields. Golf enthusiasts can visit the Bell Gardens Golf Course or the Rio Hondo Golf Club, while the 16-mile Rio Hondo River Trail caters to cyclists, hikers, and equestrians.
The neighborhood is celebrated for its authentic Latin American cuisine, with local favorites like Tamales Elena Y Antojitos, Rocio’s Mexican Kitchen, and Los Cinco Puntos. Shopping options include the Bell Gardens Marketplace, a 170,000-square-foot mall. The Parkwest Bicycle Casino, known as "The Bike," offers a variety of gaming options and dining experiences. History enthusiasts can explore landmarks such as the Gage Mansion, Woodworth House, and Perry House.
Bell Gardens features a mix of Spanish-inspired two-story homes, ranch-style houses, condos, and townhouses, many built in the late 1940s. The gated community of Vinas La Campana offers additional amenities like a basketball court and fitness center. Bell Gardens is highly walkable and provides access to Downtown LA, 11 miles away, and LAX Airport, 20 miles away, via several major interstates and the Orange County Metrolink commuter line.