Cafe de Leche in Eagle Rock, on York Boulevard

Occidental College is located within the vibrant scene of Northeast Los Angeles.

Nestled between downtown Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Mountains, Northeast Los Angeles offers a unique blend of suburban and urban living. Known today for its eclectic, laid-back vibe, the area boasts tree-lined streets, cozy coffeehouses, vintage boutiques, Mom-and-Pop markets, and a diverse array of global cuisine. This current-day diversity stems from over a century of rich and evolving history—some of it intertwined with Occidental College, which has both shaped and been shaped by the surrounding community. With this deep connection, Occidental is an ideal choice for students seeking a strong sense of community and a balance between academic life and the opportunities of the city.

Joy on York Boulevard in Highland Park.

Neighborhood Tour: Highland Park

Student Shae Campbell shows us around the shops and cafes on Eagle Rock and York Blvds. and offers tips on how to get around the city.

Vidiots reopened for business in June 2023 at the former home of the Eagle Theatre,

Neighborhood Watch

Eagle Rock and Highland Park have become magnets for new businesses. Explore some of the best offerings of the neighborhood!

About Eagle Rock

To the north of campus, Eagle Rock is named after the raptor-resembling shadow formed in a huge dome of sandstone looming over the 134 Freeway. In the early 1900s, Eagle Rock was an agricultural community attracting middle-class families seeking suburban living with a rural charm. By the end of the 20th century, Eagle Rock became a melting pot of cultures, blending its suburban roots with an urban edge. Now, the historic buildings, eclectic shops, and lively food scene reflect its evolving yet grounded character.

Check out some of these favorite spots:

Creature’s Plants and Coffee
4958 N Eagle Rock Blvd. 
A full-scale plant nursery and coffee shop.

Oxy Arts
4757 York Blvd.
Oxy Arts is the community-based arts hub of Occidental College.

The Eagle Rock
5475 Eagle Rock View Dr.
The namesake of the neighborhood, a large sandstone boulder nestled on the northeastern edge of Eagle Rock. 

Vidiots
4884 Eagle Rock Blvd.
This nonprofit video store and theater is a hub for film lovers and filmmakers.

 

About Highland Park

To the southeast is Highland Park, where residential streets blend with a walkable urban culture. Highland Park was one of Los Angeles’ first suburbs. In the early 1900s, the neighborhood became a haven for artists and intellectuals. By mid-century, it transformed into a vibrant Latino district. Today, Highland Park offers a blend of old and new, with tree-lined streets, trendy shops, diverse restaurants, and a thriving nightlife along York and Figueroa Boulevards.

Check out some of these favorite spots:

Arroyo Records
5123 1/2 York Blvd.
An indie record store offering music in a multitude of genres.

Audubon Center at Debs Park
4700 Griffin Ave.
A nature and wildlife conservatory specializing in restoration of native habitats and educational programming.

Barcade
5684 York Blvd. 
A casual bar offering craft beer, elevated bar food and throwback arcade games.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater
4949 York Blvd.
The oldest children's theater company in Los Angeles.

Galco’s Soda Pop Stop
5702 York Blvd.
A family-owned soda and candy stop, featuring an Italian deli.

Highland Park Bowl
5621 N Figueroa St.
LA's oldest bowling alley. 

Highland Park Metro Station
203 N Ave 58.
Stop on the Los Angeles Metro Rail system’s A Line connects to Union Station in downtown LA.

Judson Studios
200 S. Ave 66
A fine arts studio specializing in stained glass.

Lodge Room
104 N. Ave. 56, 2nd floor
An iconic entertainment venue hosting a mix of live music, performances, and events.