Bell Gardens

Bell Gardens is a working to middle class suburb in the southeast section of Los Angeles county. Because of it’s location in south LA, it has the reputation of being dangerous, but there have been some improvements which make this town, while not desirable, better than before. However, the crime rate is still high as compared to other suburbs in the area with violent crime still a big concern.

Bell Gardens doesn’t offer much frankly. Located between the I-710 and I-5 freeways, traffic is of course horrible. While only 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, commuters face long delays when traveling to work. Housing is affordable but you don’t get much for your money. Many neighborhoods look run down as the last several years of our struggling economy clearly affected this city as it had one of the highest unemployment rates. But again, there are some parts that are coming back, and businesses are starting to build again, like the new Walmart Neighborhood store in the Los Jardines Shopping Center.

Education is only fair with most schools rating below average in statewide testing. For youth, there is not much to do here though the local Department of Recreation for the city offers some after school programs. The Bell Gardens Veterans Park includes a skate park, basketball and volleyball courts as well as sports fields, playgrounds and picnic opportunities, but I wouldn’t feel safe here at night.

What does draw people into Bell Gardens is the 24-hour Bicycle Casino. Here you can play a variety of poker games and snack on free food as long as you are gambling enough. Keep in mind that this is a very popular and large casino as it draws people from all over since it’s the only local casino in the area. Note that there is always some sort of tournament scheduled. Don’t expect to find slot machines here however as that is not allowed.