Forming part of the San Gabriel Valley, Montebello is a historic city to the east of Los Angeles. The area was originally home to the Tongva people before a Franciscan mission was established in 1771. The city of Montebello was laid out in 1899 and flourished as an important agricultural community for the cultivation of flowers, berries and fruits.
Things to do in Montebello
On the northeastern edge of Montebello is the Juan Matias Sanchez Adobe Historic Site, which was built in 1844 and is managed by the Montebello Historical Society. Originally part of a Mexican land grant, it features period-furnished rooms and exhibits detailing the history of the Sanchez family. Community and cultural events regularly take place here.
Nearby is the Montebello Barnyard Zoo, a family-friendly attraction that allows you to get hands-on with a range of farm animals. You can hand-feed the donkeys, goats and sheep, enjoy a pony ride or let the kids run loose in the children’s playground. The Montebello Barnyard Zoo forms part of Grant Rea Park with its sporting and picnic facilities.
Montebello makes an excellent base for exploring the Whittier Narrows Recreation Area, a 160-hectare tract of riparian woodlands, lakes and wetlands. It provides an important sanctuary for migratory waterfowl, and guided bird walks are available. The on-site nature centre houses exhibits about the area’s native plants and wildlife and also hosts a junior ranger program and naturalist-led events.
Getting around Montebello
Montebello is around 25 minutes’ drive from the centre of Los Angeles and an hour from Los Angeles International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect to the Montebello/Commerce Metrolink Station while buses also travel throughout the city, connecting most of its attractions.