All photos by Raoul Pascual exclusively for TravelingBoy.com
If you’re a fan of classic cars, nostalgic vibes, and a taste of Southern California’s rich automotive history, mark your calendars for a weekly pilgrimage to Whittwood Town Center in Whittier, California. Every Friday from May through October, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Ruby’s Diner at 10109 Whittwood Drive hosts a vibrant Classic Car Show that draws car enthusiasts, families, and nostalgia seekers alike. This free, family-friendly event is more than just a display of gleaming chrome and vintage rides—it’s a celebration of Whittier’s storied past and a chance to relive the cruising culture that once defined the area. Pack your sense of adventure and come experience a slice of Americana.
A Nostalgic Hub: The History of Whittier Boulevard and Cruising Culture
Whittier’s cruising culture is deeply rooted in the mid-20th century, when Whittier Boulevard was the beating heart of Southern California’s car scene. In the 1950s and 60s, teens and young adults would pile into their meticulously polished Chevys, Fords, and Pontiacs, cruising up and down the boulevard, particularly near Painter Avenue, about 3 miles away from where Whittwood Town Center stands today. The stretch was alive with the rumble of engines, the glow of neon signs, and the promise of a good time. Bob’s Big Boy, a now-iconic diner, was the go-to spot for cruisers to grab a burger, fries, and a milkshake while showing off their rides in the parking lot. The scene was electric, with cars idling, music blaring, and stories swapped under the glow of streetlights—a true embodiment of American youth culture.
This cruising tradition wasn’t just about cars; it was a social ritual that brought communities together. Whittier Boulevard became a legendary corridor, immortalized in songs like Thee Midniters’ “Whittier Blvd.” and celebrated in films and pop culture. Even as cruising faded in the 1980s due to stricter traffic laws and changing times, the spirit of that era never truly left Whittier. Today, the Ruby’s Cruise Night at Whittwood Town Center keeps that legacy alive, inviting pre-1979 American cars and trucks (sorry, no motorcycles or foreign cars) to roll in and recapture the magic of those bygone nights. And if you’re in the spending mood, some of these cars are up for sale.
Did you know that these cars are maintained by regular car enthusiasts? Many purists build their machines from original parts found all over the globe. And when those parts are no longer in circulation, they manufacture the parts themselves.
Why Visit Ruby’s Cruise Night at Whittwood Town Center?
Every Friday evening from May to October, the parking lot in front of Ruby’s Diner transforms into a living museum of automotive history. Picture rows of meticulously restored classics—’57 Chevy Bel Airs, ’67 Ford Mustangs, and even quirky gems like a ’62 Ford Army Jeep or a ’29 Roadster with a tiny policeman figurine on the brake pedal. With about 150 cars on display each week, the show offers something for everyone, from seasoned gearheads to curious families. The event is free to attend, making it an accessible outing for all ages. Trophies are awarded in categories like “Best in Show,” and participants enjoy a 15% discount on meals at Ruby’s, where the retro 1950s decor—complete with red-and-white vinyl booths and a dodgem car on display—complements the vintage vibe outside.
The Halloween Edition of Ruby’s Cruise Night, held on the last Friday of October, is a highlight not to be missed. Cars are decked out in spooky decorations, and attendees—kids and adults alike—often show up in costume, creating a festive atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and playful. As one local enthusiast, Wes, noted on Nostalgia Highway, “The amount of cars and people that showed up was astounding… It’s an indication that the car shows will be fewer and fewer and the year is getting closer to the end.” This bittersweet finale makes the Halloween cruise a must-see event to cap off the season.
Beyond the cars, the event is a community affair. Live music, food trucks, raffle prizes, and kid-friendly activities keep the energy high. The Whittwood Town Center itself adds to the appeal, with nearby shops and eateries benefiting from the crowds. As Ginger Hartmann, the mall manager, shared in a 2009 Whittier Daily News article, “Our main goal was to attract visitors to the center… People can shop and also enjoy the beautiful cars.” The partnership between Ruby’s Diner, the American Street Rodders, and local businesses has turned this weekly event into a beloved tradition since at least 2009, drawing thousands each summer.
Exploring Whittier: A Destination Worth the Trip
Whittwood Town Center, located near the corner of Whittier Boulevard and Scott Avenue, is perfectly situated for visitors to explore the broader Uptown Whittier area (Whittier does not have a “Downtown” but it has an “Uptown”). Just a short drive from Los Angeles, Whittier offers a charming blend of small-town feel and urban accessibility. After admiring the cars, take a stroll along Whittier Boulevard to soak in the history of the cruising era. Imagine teens in letterman jackets and poodle skirts, cruising past neon-lit diners in their souped-up hot rods. While Bob’s Big Boy is no longer the epicenter it once was, its legacy lingers, and you can still grab a classic burger at Ruby’s, where the atmosphere feels like a step back in time.
For history buffs, Whittier’s past adds another layer of intrigue. Named after poet John Greenleaf Whittier, the city was founded in 1887 by Quakers and grew into a bustling hub with a strong sense of community. The area’s automotive culture took off post-World War II, when car ownership boomed and Whittier Boulevard became a natural gathering place for car clubs and enthusiasts. Today, it has a heavy Hispanic population. Events like the Whittier Area Classic Car Show, held annually at the Whittier Community Church, and the Uptown Whittier Car Show complement Ruby’s Cruise Night, making Whittier a year-round destination for car lovers.
Sadly, real estate developers are tearing down the Whittwood Town Center and converting the area into 1200 new residential units. One of the last remaining buildings of Sears Department Store and JCPenny will be gone forever. This automotive tradition will likely follow.
Plan Your Visit
Getting to Whittwood Town Center is easy, with ample parking and proximity (about 6 miles) to any major freeway. The car show runs rain or shine, though Southern California’s sunny weather typically ensures a pleasant evening. Bring the family, pack a lawn chair, and enjoy the sights and sounds of classic cars against the backdrop of Ruby’s retro diner. If you’re a car owner with a pre-1979 American vehicle, just show up—no registration required! For those planning a broader California adventure, Whittier is a great stop along a coastal road trip, with nearby attractions like Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, or the beaches of Orange County within an hour’s drive.
Why Whittier’s Classic Car Show is a Must-See
Ruby’s Cruise Night isn’t just a car show—it’s a time machine that transports you to the golden age of American car culture. Whether you’re reminiscing about cruising Whittier Boulevard in your youth, sharing stories with fellow enthusiasts, or introducing your kids to the beauty of a ’61 Chevy Impala, this event captures the heart and soul of Whittier’s automotive heritage. As one attendee recalled on Yelp, seeing a ’61 Impala at a Whittier car show brought back memories of cruising the boulevard in the same model—proof that these events are as much about connection as they are about cars.
So, gas up your ride (or just your enthusiasm) and head to Whittwood Town Center every Friday from May to October. With free admission, a welcoming community, and a chance to relive the glory days of Whittier Boulevard, Ruby’s Cruise Night is a journey worth taking. For more details, check out Ruby’s Diner at www.rubys.com or follow Ruby’s Cruise on Facebook. See you at the show!
