Welcome to Metro Stop Highlights, a series where we showcase the various stops along the A Line Metro in Los Angeles, California. Our fourth stop is Highland Park. As you exit the Metro in Highland Park, you’re greeted by the unique art and diverse foods from all kinds of restaurants and parks. Whether you’re contemplating visiting the Highland Park Bowl or getting a scoop of ice cream from Afters Ice Cream, here are some of our favorite things to do near the Highland Park station.
Checker Hall
Although it’s only a four-minute walk from the Highland Park metro station, Checker Hall is the perfect restaurant to quench your need for a peaceful, city girl moment. The restaurant is nestled next to the Lodge Room—a music venue—and offers a gorgeous view of Highland Park from above. The menu is constantly changing, but some of our current winter favorites are the Figs and Persimmons veggie dish and the Checker Hall classic side, Whipped Feta. Both of these delectable options are sure to warm up your night in Highland Park.
Highland Park Bowl
If you happen to be in the mood for a long night of pizza and bowling, the Highland Park Bowl is the place for you. Since 1927, the Highland Park Bowl’s venue has housed doctors’ offices, a music store, and a pharmacy; but now it has found its permanent purpose as a bowling alley. While you might pop in for a spot of live music, the HPB is the place to be to get your night set off right with a perfect combination of dinner and bowling.
Villa’s Tacos
As one of the newer restaurants in Highland Park, Villa’s Tacos has become an instant fan favorite. Before its growth into a storefront, Villa’s was a roadside stand on York Boulevard. Villa’s is famous for their delicious blue corn tortillas, which are handmade and used in each of their tacos.
Afters Ice Cream
Afters Ice Cream is a Highland Park classic, home to the fantastic ice cream flavor “Milk & Cereal.” If you get ice cream from Afters, you will not be disappointed by the uniqueness and range of seasonal flavors, from “Cookie Butter” to “Ube Brownie.” Afters is also a perfect snack to accompany you back to the Metro!
La Tierra de Culebra Park
If you’re looking for some peace and quiet after a dinner on the bustling Figueroa Street, La Tierra de la Culebra Park is a good pick. It’s easy to spend hours under the shady branches of trees—La Tierra de Culebra might just be your new go-to homework spot! Between the lending library, playground, and occasional live music, you are sure to find something for you at this gorgeous park.
