Top 15 Attractions and Activities in West Covina, CA

West Covina in California is situated just 18 miles from the city of Los Angeles. Until recent years, it may not have been widely recognized; however, the launch of the acclaimed television series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend in 2015 significantly altered perceptions. The show, which has garnered numerous awards and critical praise, was filmed in West Covina, establishing the location as a vital aspect of the narrative alongside the characters.

The show features a song titled ‘West Covina,’ which extols the virtues of the city. Numerous locations from the series can be explored, and even those unfamiliar with Crazy Ex-Girlfriend will discover a variety of attractions in this dynamic city, home to more than 100,000 residents.

Let us examine the top activities in West Covina:

1. The Lakes Mall Offices

Initiate your exploration of West Covina at one of the most frequently depicted settings in the show: the offices where several characters from Crazy Ex-Girlfriend are employed. The Lakes Center in West Covina features office buildings that fans will recognize as the workplace of Whitefeather & Associates, where the main character, Rebecca Bunch, serves as a lawyer. The offices are part of the expansive Lakes Center Complex, providing an ideal backdrop for photos for enthusiasts of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.

2. Glendora Historical Society Museum

Located just 15 minutes away from West Covina in Glendora, the Glendora Historical Society Museum presents a fascinating outing for families. The institution provides a comprehensive overview of the Glendora area’s history through diverse exhibits. Notable displays include extensive collections of historical artifacts dating from the 17th to 18th centuries, encompassing antiques such as paintings, furniture, and a gallery of period photographs. Additionally, mannequins dressed in historical attire create an immersive experience that evokes a sense of nostalgia.

3. The Lakes Mall

The Lakes Mall serves as West Covina’s premier shopping destination, offering an array of retail options for a delightful shopping experience. Visitors will discover a blend of high-end boutiques and local retailers, as well as various dining establishments to enjoy a meal or coffee. The mall provides a comprehensive experience, and notably, the outdoor area is where the ‘West Covina’ song was filmed in Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, specifically in the quad where Rebecca Bunch, played by Rachel Bloom, ascended skyward on a giant pretzel. Fans of the show will find this location unmissable.

4. Big League Dreams

Another noteworthy stop on your Crazy Ex-Girlfriend tour is Big League Dreams, the real-life inspiration for the bar known as Home Base in the series, where protagonist Greg Serrano is employed. Big League Dreams is a sports park themed around baseball, featuring scaled-down replicas of major league stadiums for guests to explore. The small-scale fields facilitate easy access for visitors, offering insight into one of America’s beloved sports. Additionally, the park hosts regular baseball and softball games, as well as an indoor soccer area.

5. Galster Wilderness Park

Despite its absence from the show, Galster Wilderness Park remains a leading destination for those wishing to enjoy the great outdoors and appreciate the natural beauty of West Covina. The park covers 42 acres and features lush trails, making it an excellent location for nature enthusiasts. A museum and educational center within the park hosts informative monthly programs led by knowledgeable volunteers, offering insights into indigenous fossils, minerals, and wildlife. Activities such as hiking and biking are popular here, and the towering trees provide welcome shade while taking in the views.

6. Baldwin Park Historical Society Museum

Located just 3 minutes from West Covina, the Baldwin Park Historical Society Museum offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Operated by the Baldwin Park Historical Society, the museum provides tours that focus on the region’s sartorial history, showcasing antique clothing items, including military uniforms and historical footwear, alongside artifacts from earlier periods.

7. Arcadia Wilderness Park

Roughly 16 minutes from West Covina lies Arcadia Wilderness Park, celebrated for its vibrant trails and nature center. This park features various animal exhibits, making it an ideal location for individuals interested in local flora and fauna. Convenient picnic fields and some of the best hiking trails in the vicinity make it a popular spot among visitors.

8. Cortez Park

Cortez Park is one of West Covina’s premier recreational areas, offering a wide range of attractions for visitors. Younger guests can enjoy several playgrounds designed for various age groups, complemented by an outdoor gym for fitness enthusiasts. The park features gently rolling grassy hills, providing picturesque scenery for leisurely walks or picnics. Additionally, active visitors can explore the park’s biking trails.

9. Boba Tea Lounge

In Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Rebecca and her romantic interest, Josh Chan, are frequently seen enjoying Taiwanese bubble tea, known locally as Boba Tea. While the specific park and tea stand featured in the show are fictional, those seeking to experience authentic bubble tea can visit Boba Tea Lounge in West Covina. This location offers a variety of delightful Taiwanese milk tea blends, complemented by traditional tapioca pearls. Although the exact tea stand may be fictional, you can still savor the rich flavors of Boba tea in West Covina.

10. Solana Park

Solana Park is a key location for devoted fans of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, serving as the fictional residence of Rebecca Bunch. This residential neighborhood is filled with condominiums resembling the one depicted in the series. Visitors can explore the area and attempt to identify the specific unit featured in the first episode when Greg picks up Rebecca for a date.

11. Brunswick West Covina Lanes

Renowned as the premier bowling center in West Covina, Brunswick West Covina Lanes features an impressive 50 bowling lanes, along with additional attractions for those wishing to try different activities. The facility includes 9 billiard tables for those interested in a game, as well as a pro shop for equipment needs. A snack bar and banquet services ensure that visitors remain well-fed during events.

12. Tilt 267

For those keen on continuing the fun in West Covina, Tilt 267 offers a lively arcade experience. Featuring various classic games, visitors can engage in racing video games and shooting games. The facility also boasts an array of redemption games, including claw machines and stacking games. Other entertainment options include air hockey and shooting ranges.

13. Magical Playground

The Magical Playground is an ideal destination for families visiting West Covina, particularly those seeking indoor activities during inclement weather. The entire facility caters to children, toddlers, and infants, offering various toys and inflatable attractions, including a bouncing house. Additionally, a whimsical castle structure is available for young explorers to enjoy.

14. Palm View Park

While West Covina boasts several parks, Palm View Park offers a unique attraction that distinguishes it from the rest. Upon arrival, visitors will likely notice several large aircraft displayed in the park’s center, which serve as play equipment for children, making it an engaging spot for aspiring aviators. Beyond the aircraft, the park features two playgrounds for children of varying ages, as well as sports fields and picnic tables for a relaxing day outdoors.

15. Duarte Historical Museum

Situated in the nearby city of Duarte, this museum is a brief drive from West Covina and is dedicated to narrating the historical saga of Duarte. At merely 11 minutes from West Covina, the Duarte Historical Museum is replete with period-specific exhibits tracing the city’s evolution. Expect to see artifacts including paintings, photographs, and furniture reflective of the times gone by.