Artesia is named for the artesian wells, but it is mostly a residential and commercial area of Los Angeles County. Located along the MetroRail Blue Line that takes tourist and commuters to downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and Long Beach, Artesia is often selected by tourists who have relatives living nearby.

The hotels are generally budget offerings and the city, itself, is more about location than destination. It's central location to Los Angeles would be one reason you might want to choose a hotel in this city. There are shops, restaurants, and the freeway providing close access to L.A. and the Orange County beaches and attractions such as Disneyland in Anaheim.

Artesia is named for Artesian wells that once served the budding farming and agriculture businesses that were prominent in the early years of Los Angeles development. Grapes, sugar beets, vegetables, fruits and poultry were some of the mainstay crops.

Thanks to the Dutch (and Portuguese) Artesia became known as a dairy capital. Today Artesia is primarily residential and commercial and is bordered by Cerritos and Norwalk.

Artesia didn't incorporate till 1959, though the city is much, much older as an established entity. In fact, the first school in Artesia was founded in 1875.

Things to see & do:

East West Ice Palace ice rink co-owned by Michelle Kwan is one of the best places for learning to skate and working your way through the ranks in competitions.

Artesia Historical Museum, housed in a 1929 vintage home, donated to the society and city was relocated from Pioneer Blvd. to 18644 Alburtis, Artesia, Ca. Open every second Saturday of the month, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Little India was renamed International Cultural District to reflect the multi-cultural residents and shoppers to the city, including a large population of Portuguese, plus Asians. The shopping area includes unique stores with imported products and clothes, and many restaurants offering special menus unique to the area and its people.

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