Torrance offers numerous options for outdoor recreation, and Los Angeles County's favorable climate (averaging 70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round) ensures these activities can be enjoyed in any season. The city's 30-plus parks are popular destinations for outdoor activities. Visitors can choose to participate in sports such as softball, basketball or tennis; go for a walk or jog on the trails (many of which have specific fitness courses); or have a family picnic at one of the barbecue areas. There are several golf courses in the Torrance area, including the city-owned Sea Aire Golf Course and the New Horizons Golf Course. The secluded and scenic Torrance Beach offers a quiet escape from other tourist-packed beaches of Los Angeles County, such as nearby Redondo Beach or Manhattan Beach.
Whether families are spending a day or week in Torrance, the city offers a variety of kid-friendly activities.The Mulligan Family Fun Center promises hours of entertainment for all activity levels, with mini golf, paddle boats, an arcade, lazer tag, go-karts and a rock wall. For children 10 and under, Torrance's Kid Concepts U.S.A. features a large indoor playground, complete with a three-level play structure, toddler area, arts and crafts room, and a karaoke stage. Young nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Madrona Marsh -- a protected wetland area located in the heart of the city. The Madrona Marsh Nature Center offers children's programs, guided walks, and excellent bird and wildlife watching opportunities.
Located in the heart of the city, the Torrance Cultural Arts Center contains visual and performing arts studios, a theatre, two outdoor plazas for festivals or events, and a Japanese garden. The theatre plays host to frequent productions and performances throughout the year. Next door is the Torrance Art Museum, with a focus on contemporary art from Southern California and around the world. Aviation history and the origins of air travel can be explored first-hand at the Western Museum of Flight, which features numerous aircraft and exhibits.
There is something for all ages and budgets at the Del Amo Fashion Center -- described on the City of Torrance website as the largest mall in the Western United States. The spacious shopping center features over 300 retail stores, including several anchor department stores such as Sears, JC Penney and Macy's, and three food courts. The Downtown Historic Shopping District is an interesting place to shop, browse or eat, due to the collection of historic buildings -- some of which have been fully restored. A year-round selection of California-grown fruits and vegetables, eggs, honey, baked goods, and several other local items can be found at Charles H. Wilson Park's farmers' market.
