Lincoln Heights

Man, this nabe is cool (cool in an “I’ll never belong here” kind of way). It’s colorful and unconventional, with hand-painted store signs and residents who know how to have fun. The best part is, it manages to be all this without being too hipster (nevertheless, gentrification has begun, with the establishment of the “art colony” in the old brewery – say what?!).

There’s no shortage of things to do here: chow down on some crazy good Mexican food, check out the San Antonio Winery, and enjoy the scenery while you explore. Lincoln Heights has a very cool and historic vibe to it…old Victorian houses dating back to the early 1800s (it really is the oldest neighborhood in LA!) coexist with stylish Art Deco styles, making this a really unique-looking nabe. I wonder how long it’ll take before the hipsters start moving in…..

The sizzle and smoke of a barbeque slowly grilling carne asada and burger patties in the unkempt front yard, neighbors sticking their noses out the iron-barred windows, salivating over the smell, a case of ice-cold beer on a small table next to condiments and a boombox, which blares Isley Brothes tunes. Welcome to Lincoln Heights.

Lincoln Heights is technically a suburban area but feels more urban, especially on the busy commercial boulevards of Main Street, Pasadena and Mission Road.
There’s definitely always something going on, whether it be a backyard metal show (Metal is back! Especially in the East Side – go fig.) or a community event at the Lincoln Heights Library or the epic Lincoln Heights Skatepark.

Lincoln Heights: It’s good for you, your kids, your parents, everyone.

Lincoln Park is considered the oldest neighborhood in Los Angeles, and a lot of the original houses (which are quite impressive) have been designated for historic preservation. This area is the real deal. Laid-back but buzzing, this neighborhood is culturally diverse. North Broadway is its main street, home to plenty of delicious locally-run restaurants and ethnic markets. And with lots of schools, this area is prime for starting and raising a family.

In many ways, I think this is a classic LA nabe—urban/rough atmosphere but overflowing with character and love from neighbors. One of the best places in LA for kids to grow up. I have nothing but good things to say about this place. I know there’s been a decent amount of hubub lately because there’s some gentrification in the wind. I think if other people move here, it’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it would be an incredible travesty if the amazing nature of lincoln heights was changed by a change in population.