Main Street
About
Main Street in El Segundo offers families a charming, walkable downtown experience with a classic small-town vibe just minutes from LAX. This pedestrian-friendly strip is perfect for strolling with kids, featuring family-friendly restaurants, old-fashioned ice cream parlors, unique boutique shops, and regular community events that bring the whole neighborhood together.
Highlights
- ✓Classic ice cream parlors serving old-fashioned sundaes and milkshakes
- ✓Weekly farmers market with kid-friendly activities and entertainment
- ✓Pedestrian-friendly sidewalks perfect for strollers and young walkers
- ✓Community events throughout the year including holiday parades and outdoor concerts
- ✓Family-owned boutiques with unique toys and gifts
Pro Tips
- 1.Street parking fills up quickly during evening hours and weekends, so arrive early or use the public parking structure on Main Street between Holly and Maple
- 2.Visit on Thursday evenings during summer for the farmers market with free live music and kid-friendly activities
- 3.Stop by the El Segundo Library just off Main Street for free restrooms and a kids' play area if little ones need a break
- 4.Many shops are independently owned and welcome strollers, but the sidewalks can get crowded during peak times
- 5.Grab ice cream at one of the classic parlors first, then window shop while kids enjoy their treats
Best Time to Visit
Weekend mornings (9am-noon) offer a relaxed pace with shops freshly opened and sidewalks less crowded. Thursday evenings in summer are ideal for the farmers market atmosphere with live entertainment and community vibe.
What to Know
Most shops and restaurants are free to browse with individual pricing. Street parking is metered during business hours with 2-hour limits, while the public parking structure offers longer-term options for families planning to spend more time exploring.
Seasonal Notes
Summer brings the weekly Thursday evening farmers market and outdoor concerts. December features a charming holiday parade and tree lighting ceremony. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for walking. Most businesses maintain regular hours year-round.
Nearby Eats
Try Rock & Brews for kids' menu favorites and a casual rock-n-roll atmosphere, or Chick-fil-A just off Main Street for reliable kid-pleasing options with a playground.
More Activities Near El Segundo
Candy Cane Park
Candy Cane Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland each December, offering families a cherished El Segundo holiday tradition. Kids will be mesmerized by the enchanting light displays and festive decorations as you stroll through this seasonal spectacle together, creating memorable moments without the crowds or costs of larger commercial displays.
El Segundo Certified Farmers' Market
This weekly Thursday afternoon farmers' market on El Segundo's charming Main Street offers a perfect blend of fresh produce shopping, tasty prepared foods, and live music in a relaxed, pedestrian-friendly setting. It's an ideal way to introduce kids to where food comes from while they enjoy samples, entertainment, and the lively community vibe of this coastal South Bay town.
El Segundo Parks & Recreation
El Segundo Parks & Recreation offers families a versatile neighborhood park perfect for active play and outdoor fun. With well-maintained playground equipment, sports courts, and expansive grassy areas, it's an ideal spot for everything from pickup basketball games to picnic lunches while the kids burn off energy.
The Lakes at El Segundo
The Lakes at El Segundo is El Segundo's premier family destination, offering something for kids of all ages across its expansive grounds. With multiple playgrounds, sports fields, open green spaces for running around, and picnic areas perfect for birthday parties or casual family gatherings, this highly-rated park provides hours of outdoor fun just minutes from the beach.