Parks
10 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Fletcher Park1.1 mi from downtown
- Arceo Park0.7 mi from downtown
- Rio Vista Veterans Memorial Park0.9 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in El Monte
4 kinds of free outings in and around El Monte.
Good days out in El Monte don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- El Monte Library3224 Tyler Ave.
- Norwood Library4550 North Peck Rd.
- South El Monte Library1430 N. Central Ave.
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Angeles National Forest5 mi north
- Brea Dam14 mi southeast
- Carbon Canyon Dam15 mi southeast
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Whittier Narrows Dam3 mi southwest
- Santa Fe Dam4 mi northeast
- Angeles National Forest5 mi north
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
We visited Spring Shabu Shabu in El Monte, CA.
A local activity Short shared by The Batsons.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Top 4 Legendary Places To Eat In El Monte,California
A local activity Short shared by AMedinaMusic.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in El Monte?
Parks, Libraries, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in El Monte this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.