The area of Pacoima was first inhabited by the Tataviam Band of Mission Indians. The name for the Native American village was Pakoinga. But the “ng” sound didn’t exist in Spanish, so the Spaniards took it as an “m” and wrote the name down as Pacoima.
Hundreds of years later, Pacoima has found itself to be quite the neighborhood! The murals alone are worth the trip. If not that, then the food!
But there’s more than just murals and food. Let’s take a tour!
Where exactly is Pacoima, CA? How far is it from major cities?
Pacoima is a neighborhood in LA, found in southwest California.
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It takes five hours and 45 minutes to drive from Pacoima to San Francisco via I-5 N.
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It takes two hours and 15 minutes to drive from Pacoima to San Diego via I-5 S.
Things to do in Pacoima, CA
1. Visit the Griffith Ranch Historical Monument
(photo: Therudebud)
Griffith Ranch was owned by one of the main pioneers of silent motion pictures- David Wark Griffith.
He supposedly filmed many monumental movies at the ranch, including The Birth of a Nation. But these claims are unvalidated.
Throughout his career he made roughly 500 films.
The ranch was added to the California Historic Landmark registry in 1959.
Foothill Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331
2. Hansen Dam Golf Course
Hansen Dam Golf Course can be found near the Hansen Dam and is truly a hidden gem. Because of the sheer amount of trees on the back nine as well as elevation changes, this course has two very different nine hole sections.
The irrigation system has recently been improved and new tee-to-green cart paths have allowed the grass to grow lusciously (and stay perfectly manicured!)
The driving range is a combination of mat tee line and combo grass.
The course won “Best Places to Play” in Golf Digest!
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18 total holes
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Par 72
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6,801 yards
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72.1 rating
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124 slope
10400 Glenoaks Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331
3. Take a tour of Mural Mile
Mural Mile is a truly spectacular addition to Los Angeles, having been around since the 1970s. Take a tour to learn about specific murals, artists, and politics surrounding the mile!
Some murals include:
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Danny Trejo: By Levi Ponce and volunteers. Acrylics, 22’ x 26’. Pays respect to Danny Trejo, who gives to the Pacoima community and believes deeply in helping others.
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Entrepreneur Center: By Germs. 30 feet. Mexican heritage and icons depicted in vibrant colors.
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Pacoima City Hall: By Ignacio Gomez. Details the historical events and prominent faces of Pacoima.
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Shakur: By the H.O.O.D. Sisters and Kristy Sandoval. Pays respect to Assata Shakur. She was the godmother of Tupac and was on the FBI most wanted list.
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And more!
4. Hike on Hansen Dam Bike Path Trail
The Hansen Dam Bike Path Trail is just longer than 4 miles. It’s a loop trail that’s decently challenging and takes about an hour and 45 minutes to complete.
Start on pavement with spectacular views of the mountains and then venture on earth through the trees.
It’s very popular, so be ready to see other people! Or venture on a slightly different route for some more solitude.
If you pay attention you may even see a coyote! There are plenty of beautiful birds to listen to as you hike, or you can bring some binoculars to birdwatch.
It can get pretty muddy, so try not to go for a few days after rain.
The trail is open all year. Dogs must be on a leash.
5. Roger Jessup Park
Looking for a day out in the sun? Roger Jessup Park is the perfect place for you.
Explore their community garden and see what the neighbors are growing! California is the perfect place to garden due to the exemplary weather, so don’t miss out on your chance to view the luscious veggies!
Located amidst rolling hills, you’ll feel nestled right into this abundantly green park. Go for a stroll and see all the plants- there’s even agave!
Open dawn to dusk every day!
12467 Osborne St, Pacoima, CA 91331
6. Myke’s Cafe
If you want to be blown away, head on over to Myke’s Cafe!
With “wild pancakes, crazy burgers & tantalizing Mexican food”, Myke’s was featured in the Huffington post, specifically for their Berrylemonicious pancakes. But the fun doesn’t stop there!
Their burgers are bursting at the seams so much so that you’ll wonder how you’re going to eat them! Bacon, guacamole, eggs, and more can be found atop these monsters.
And don’t forget about their Mexican food. They have a little man hangover cure, breakfast tortas, and chilaquiles benedict- and of course more. You won’t forget eating here!
Their food is meant to “inspire, bring people together, and blow away what’s considered normal.” They certainly do so!
They also work hard to feature local artists with art inside the building and on an outside mural.
13171 Van Nuys Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331
7. San Fernando Swap Meet
The San Fernando Swap Meet covers a whopping 16 acres. They’ve been around for over 35 years and have nearly 1,000 vendor spaces!
This swap meet sees over 26,000 shoppers weekly- it must be good.
You can find produce, tools, clothing, pet supplies, DVDs, music, and anything else you can think of. There’s always a bargain waiting for you!
Open rain or shine, there’s no better way to spend your day than wandering around a swap meet in search of what you’ll discover next. But let’s be honest- this one is going to take you more than one day to fully explore!
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Tuesday: 7am-1:30pm ; $1
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Thursday-Friday: 7am-1pm ; $1
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Saturday-Sunday: 7am-3pm ; $2
585 Glenoaks Blvd, San Fernando, CA 91340
8. Nashville Hot Chicken
Get ready to feel like an old friend when you visit Nashville Hot Chicken. The staff really knows how to welcome you!
No matter how much you do or don’t like spice, you can order it just to your liking. But don’t be surprised if you feel inclined to up the spice level on your next visit! It’s that addicting.
The chicken sandwiches are perfectly crispy with the ultimate BBQ sauce. Enjoy their loaded fries with chipotle dressing and coleslaw- try to find that combo anywhere else!
Some claim that this place has served them the best chicken sandwiches they’ve had in their entire lives. So go ahead and give it a shot- you just might end up saying the same thing!
10750 Glenoaks Blvd #3, Pacoima, CA 91331
9. Queens Burgers
Come for the fries, stay for the burgers. Or maybe the other way around. You know what, just get the combo!
The fries are salted to perfection and thickly cut. But if you think their regular fries are good, just you wait to try their chili cheese fries. With the perfect portions of meat, cheese, and chili, your mind will be blown.
But don’t stop there. The bacon cheeseburger is a must! Or if you’re not all chili’d out from the fries, their chili cheeseburger is to die for. And let’s be honest- you can never go wrong with just a classic cheeseburger.
12731 Osborne St, Pacoima, CA 91331
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