Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Montebello, CA

Summary:

Montebello is a historic city of approximately 62,000 residents located in the San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County.

Formerly an agricultural hub, this Los Angeles suburb functions as a gateway city featuring numerous parks and recreational spaces. Its central positioning provides convenient access to adjacent cities and the coastal regions renowned for their beaches.

In Montebello, a plethora of dining establishments and shopping venues can be found, including The Shops at Montebello, Montebello Town Square, and Montebello Plaza.

The city and its neighboring areas host an array of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Whittier Walnut Festival, The Cherry Blossom Festival, and the OC Greek Fest.

Below are 15 distinguished activities to undertake in and around Montebello, California.

1. Get a History Lesson at the Montebello Historical Society and the Adobe Museum

The Montebello Historical Society manages the Juan Matias Sanchez Adobe Historic Site and Museum, which is situated on the site of the oldest residence in Montebello.

The Adobe, established in 1844, holds significant historical importance for the city.

Within this museum, visitors can explore the history of the Sanchez family and the community through a series of exhibits showcasing various artifacts from the 1800s. Additionally, you will find rooms furnished to reflect that era, along with historical photographs.

A diverse array of community and educational events occur at the museum throughout the year.

2. Play a Round of Golf at Montebello Municipal Golf Course

Regarded as one of the preeminent municipal golf courses in the region, Montebello Municipal Golf Course boasts a rich and vibrant history extending nearly a century.

This 18-hole championship course presents an array of challenges, including multiple lakes and sand traps, which ensure an engaging golfing experience.

For those looking to refine their skills before heading onto the course, a driving range is available on-site, and professional lessons can be arranged.

3. Relax Outdoors in Montebello City Park

Montebello City Park serves as an ideal setting for spending a sunny afternoon, whether you are looking to unwind in the picturesque green spaces or enhance your fitness routine.

This park features several playgrounds, an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and an amphitheater.

4. Dine on Fine Mediterranean Fare at The Golden Skewer

The Golden Skewer in Montebello is often hailed as one of the finest Mediterranean dining establishments in the region. While the primary menu focus is Mediterranean cuisine, there is a distinct emphasis on Armenian dishes.

Upon being seated in this family-friendly restaurant, patrons are presented with a diverse menu featuring a range of delicious, homemade dishes crafted from the freshest, highest-quality ingredients available.

Appetizers, kebabs, soups, salads, and main courses such as baby back ribs and broiled sturgeon are among the culinary offerings available.

5. Meet some Friendly Farm Animals at the Montebello Barnyard Zoo

The Montebello Barnyard Zoo represents an excellent family excursion within Montebello. Children thoroughly enjoy engaging with and petting the amicable farm animals present in the petting zoo. The zoo is home to various animals, including rabbits, goats, and chickens.

Furthermore, train rides and pony rides are available, along with a merry-go-round, playground, and designated picnic areas.

6. Enjoy Live Entertainment at The Alex Theatre

For many years, The Alex Theatre in nearby Glendale has established itself as a premier venue for exceptional live entertainment.

This exquisite facility hosts over 250 live performances annually, encompassing plays, dance shows, concerts, comedy acts, and award ceremonies, among other events.

The Alex Film Society also occasionally features classic films, and events such as the Glendale Youth Orchestra and the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra attract significant crowds.

With prior arrangements, backstage tours of the venue are available.

7. Admire Fine Art at the Vincent Price Art Museum

The Vincent Price Art Museum is a remarkable facility located in nearby East Los Angeles, showcasing over 9,000 pieces of art and artifacts.

A substantial portion of the collection was generously donated by the actor Vincent Price and his wife, encompassing Native American art and works from Africa and Europe.

While touring the museum, visitors will encounter Japanese art, artifacts from the Ancient Americas, and works by various artists, including Rico LeBrun, Milford Zornes, Charles White, and Howard Warsaw.

The permanent exhibit, Form and Function in the Ancient Americas, is currently the only exhibit offered on-site; however, numerous temporary exhibitions cycle throughout the year.

8. Sample Local Craft Beer at Angry Horse Brewing

Since its establishment in 2016, Angry Horse Brewing in Montebello has been producing artisanal beer. While traditional brewing techniques are employed, the resulting flavors are contemporary and distinctive.

Visitors to the on-site taproom have the opportunity to sample an impressive selection of brews, including Blizzard Boots, Angry Horse Country Roads, Whistle While You Work, and Don’t Be Shy.

Patio seating is available, and various events are held at the brewery throughout the year.

9. Spend a Day in Nature in Deukmejian Wilderness Park

Spanning 709 acres, Deukmejian Park, located at the boundary of nearby Glendale, serves as a stunning retreat beneath the San Gabriel Mountains. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems, including chaparral, woodlands, and sage scrub.

While much of the area remains in its natural state, a network of hiking trails provides opportunities for exploration. As you traverse these trails, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Crescenta Valley and may even encounter some of the local wildlife.

Other amenities on-site include the historic Le Mesnager Barn, restroom facilities, and picnic areas.

10. Try Your Luck at the Commerce Casino

If you’re seeking an exhilarating evening of entertainment where you can also test your luck, Commerce Casino is the ideal destination.

This casino features the largest card room in the world, boasting over 240 tables, ensuring numerous opportunities to win big or, at the very least, enjoy the experience. Some of the card games offered include Texas Hold’em, Lowball, Razz, Baccarat, Blackjack, and Pai Gow Poker.

Additionally, several dining options are available, and the casino hosts various sporting events throughout the year.

11. Visit The Museum of Neon Art

The Museum of Neon Art is an extraordinary venue dedicated to the art of neon. This is the first museum of its kind in the world, primarily focused on acquiring, preserving, and exhibiting neon art for future generations to appreciate.

As visitors navigate the exhibits, they will encounter an assortment of kinetic art, electric media, and neon signage from the greater Los Angeles area.

The exhibits are continually changing, ensuring there is always something new to discover, including neon signs of historical significance and creations by world-renowned artists. Recent exhibitions have included New to Neon and Signs from the Permanent Collection.

Night-time Neon Cruise bus tours are also offered, and various events take place at the museum throughout the year.

12. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at Mignon Chocolate

Mignon Chocolate is a family-run Ukrainian chocolatier located in nearby Glendale. Since 1935, the family has utilized traditional recipes to create handcrafted chocolate using only the finest ingredients.

All products are made locally without preservatives, allowing you to indulge with less guilt.

With over 60 delectable varieties of chocolates and truffles for sale, including hazelnut truffles and dark-chocolate-dipped orange peels, Mignon Chocolate is a paradise for chocolate lovers.

13. Spend a Day Hiking at Mount Gleason

Mount Gleason is a prominent peak located within the San Gabriel Mountains, near Glendale. The region is a beautiful blend of pristine nature, showcasing coniferous ecosystems and expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

A selection of hiking trails are available, each leading to the summit of the mountain. The 16-mile Pacific Crest Trail is among the options, but it is advisable to commence your hike early in the day.

For those wishing to stay in the vicinity overnight, campgrounds on the mountain include Lightning Point and Messenger Flats.

14. Get Outdoors and Immerse Yourself in the Arts at Brand Park

At Brand Park, visitors of all ages can partake in a multitude of attractions and activities available both indoors and outdoors.

A key feature of this extensive park is the Brand Library and Art Center. Inside this complex, a variety of galleries are dedicated to visual arts and music, alongside sculpture courts.

At the Whispering Pine Tea House and Friendship Garden, one can savor a soothing cup of tea paired with a sweet delight before continuing to explore the park. Other amenities include the Doctor’s House Museum, sports fields, playgrounds, and hiking trails.

15. Learn About Local History at the Casa Adobe De San Rafael

Casa Adobe De San Rafael is an elegant hacienda-style residence constructed in 1865. Once the home of Tomas Avila Sanchez and his spouse, this property currently stands as a historic site accessible to the public.

Inside the residence, visitors can observe original rooms, including the guest parlor, family parlor, and bedroom. These spaces contain artifacts that once belonged to the family, such as period furnishings, a trunk, and a historic organ.