Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Azusa, California

Azusa is a city comprising approximately 50,000 residents located in the San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County.

This city is among the oldest in the county and is conveniently situated just 20 miles from Los Angeles, providing easy access to the area’s renowned beaches and attractions.

Azusa occupies a location that offers unique experiences, nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and bordering the historic Route 66.

Affectionately referred to as Canyon City, the city’s moniker stems from its position at the entrance of the San Gabriel Canyon.

Known for its exceptional climate throughout the year, Azusa also features a variety of dining and shopping options, including The Outlet By E.L.S., Azusa Square Shopping Center, and Edgewood Shopping Center.

Throughout the year, numerous events and festivals take place in Azusa, such as the complimentary Summer Concert Series and the Fiesta and Craft Beer Festival.

Below are 15 of the most notable activities to experience in and around Azusa, California.

1. Spend an afternoon in Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park serves as a well-favored community park offering ample green space for relaxation.

The park features various amenities, including picnic areas equipped with barbecue facilities, a playground, restrooms, and a walking trail.

2. Learn about the History of the Rails at the Pacific Railroad Museum

The dedicated volunteers at the Pacific Railroad Museum in San Dimas diligently work to revitalize the area’s rich railroad history, making it accessible for visitors of all ages.

This intriguing museum resides in a refurbished depot, designed to resemble a functioning station. Various exhibits, showcasing artefacts and historical photographs, are available for public viewing.

3. Play a Round of Golf at Azusa Greens Country Club

At Azusa Greens Country Club, visitors can enjoy a premier golfing experience, characterized by outstanding service, modern facilities, and a scenic 18-hole, par-70 course.

The year-round course spans approximately 6,200 yards and offers a variety of challenges, including bunkers and narrow fairways.

An on-site practice area comprises a driving range, pitching zone, chipping section, and practice green, with lessons available for various skill levels.

4. Catch a Live Performance at the Arcadia Performing Arts Center

As the leading arts venue in the San Gabriel Valley, the Arcadia Performing Arts Center features an array of world-class entertainment, showcasing both emerging and established artists.

This expansive venue accommodates performances in two sections: a concert hall seating over 1,000 and a smaller theater with a capacity of 125.

Each season, a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, musicals, dance showcases, and community events, are presented.

5. Wine and Dine at Aldolino Italian Restaurant

Aldolino Italian Restaurant has established itself as a cherished eatery in Azusa, having spent years refining its culinary offerings. Today, this well-regarded restaurant presents traditional Italian dishes in an inviting atmosphere.

Open for lunch and dinner daily, the establishment utilizes only the freshest, high-quality ingredients in its meals.

The menu encompasses appetizers, salads, pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, and main dishes like chicken parmesan, blackened salmon, and pollo alla gorgonzola.

The drink menu includes an extensive selection of beers and wines, along with handcrafted cocktails. Guests can choose to dine indoors or on the patio.

6. Visit the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden serves as both a historical site and a picturesque garden, making it a fascinating destination in nearby Arcadia.

As you traverse the 127-acre estate, you will learn about its history while enjoying a vast array of beautiful flora across numerous gardens and greenhouses.

Visitors can explore the Tropical Greenhouse, Jungle Garden, Native Oaks Collection, Palms and Bamboo Collection, and the Aquatic Garden.

The property showcases plants from around the globe, categorized by their countries of origin.

7. Get Outdoors at Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park

Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park is a vast outdoor area in San Dimas, offering an extensive range of activities for visitors.

The focal point of this park is a stunning lake that attracts swimmers and boaters alike.

Possible activities within the park include hiking, picnicking, biking, horseback riding, bird-watching, and camping.

Facilities on-site also include a golf course and a water park with splash pads. Throughout the year, this park is host to various events such as fishing competitions and festivals.

8. Visit The Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage

The Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage, located in nearby Arcadia, is dedicated to the acquisition, preservation, and exhibition of items related to the history of the city and its surrounding regions.

The museum presents a diverse range of exhibits that detail the history and culture of the area, beginning with its indigenous population and extending to contemporary times. Guests can view artefacts and stunning works of art.

A number of permanent exhibits focus on notable Arcadians and the portrayal of Arcadia in film.

9. Beat the Heat at Raging Waters Los Angeles

Raging Waters Los Angeles, the largest water park in California, located in nearby San Dimas, features an exciting array of water attractions suitable for all ages.

This location is ideal for hot summer afternoons when a refreshing swim is most desired.

On-site attractions include water rides, thrilling slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. Additionally, several eateries within the park offer a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages, eliminating the need to leave the premises for refreshments.

10. Learn About Local History at the Durrell House Museum

To comprehend the history and culture of a city, visiting the local museum is essential. In Azusa, this museum is the Durrell House Museum, managed by the Azusa Historical Society.

The museum is committed to preserving the city’s history to ensure future generations remain informed about its origins.

Although modest in size, the museum houses numerous important artefacts and historical photographs narrating the city’s story and its inhabitants.

11. Find the Perfect Gift at Vintage Treasures & Antiques

Vintage Treasures & Antiques, located in Arcadia, offers a unique shopping experience filled with rare and hard-to-find items.

This shop is the perfect destination for discovering distinctive home decor, unique clothing, or a special gift for a loved one.

Expect to find antique furnishings, vintage attire, exquisite handmade jewelry, and other intriguing items within the store.

12. Plan Your Escape at Trapped Escape Room

With the rise of escape rooms across the country, Trapped Escape Room in San Dimas offers a selection of three exciting and distinct rooms, including Grandma’s Escape, Pandora’s Box, and Operation: X-13.

Once enclosed in your chosen room, you have one hour to collaborate with teammates to solve puzzles and uncover clues in order to escape. This activity is suitable for families and provides an entertaining option for inclement weather.

13. Visit Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum

For enthusiasts of automobiles and racing, the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum is an essential attraction in nearby San Dimas.

The museum hosts an array of exhibits relating to vehicles, the automotive industry, and motorsports, illustrating their profound connection with American culture. Among the offerings are memorabilia, artefacts, and photographs for guests to explore.

Guided tours are available, and the museum hosts numerous events throughout the year.

14. Check out the Santa Anita Race Park

Recognized as one of the world’s most picturesque thoroughbred racetracks, the Santa Anita Race Park in Arcadia may host celebrated racing events during your visit to the Azusa area.

In the absence of events, visitors can still enjoy the stunning views of the track set against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, as well as dine at the Frontrunner Restaurant, which overlooks the track, alongside an on-site bar.

15. Admire the Victorian Architecture of the Queen Anne Cottage and Coach Barn

The Queen Anne Cottage and Coach Barn, located in Arcadia, are two historic structures built between 1870 and 1880.

These well-preserved edifices are recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, with opportunities available to tour both the exterior and interior while gaining insight into their designer and historical significance.