Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Arcadia, California

Arcadia is a city with a population of around 58,000 situated in the San Gabriel Valley area of Los Angeles County.

This city is recognized for its horse racing, picturesque neighborhoods, proximity to stunning beaches, the San Gabriel Mountains, and the city of Los Angeles.

It boasts numerous dining establishments, cultural attractions, and shopping centers, including the Highlander Center, Arcadia Marketplace, and Westfield Santa Anita.

Throughout the year, various festivals and events occur in Arcadia, including the California Wine Festival, The Moonlight Forest – Lantern Art Festival, The Vintage Vibe Festival, and the Socal Moon Festival.

Below are 15 of the premier activities to engage in while visiting Arcadia, California.

1. Learn About Local History at The Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage

The Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage showcases a variety of exhibits that highlight artifacts pertinent to the history, culture, and citizens of Arcadia. Since its inception in 2001, the museum has hosted exhibitions and numerous community programs throughout the year.

The primary gallery narrates the city’s history, tracing back to the early Native American inhabitants.

While temporary exhibits rotate throughout the year, permanent displays include The Arcadia Walk of Fame, Anita Baldwin, and Arcadia in the Movies.

2. Explore the Angeles National Forest

Nestled within the Sierra Pelona Mountains and San Gabriel Mountains, the Angeles National Forest is an expansive wilderness ready to be discovered.

Since the early 1900s, this California Historical Landmark has served as a favored retreat for urban residents.

Numerous trails within the park cater to both hiking and biking enthusiasts, traversing five distinct nature areas: Cucamonga Wilderness, Magic Mountain Wilderness, Sheep Mountain Wilderness, Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness, and San Gabriel Wilderness.

As you navigate these trails, there are opportunities to observe wildlife and appreciate the rich vegetation. Facilities for picnicking and camping are also available.

3. Eat Healthy at Natural Selection

Whether you seek a nutritious breakfast or a quick snack to take on a picnic, Natural Selection provides high-quality meals made from fresh, organic, and natural ingredients—nothing processed yet everything is delectable.

The extensive selection features omelettes, burritos, wraps, sandwiches, grilled dishes, burgers, salads, and numerous vegetarian choices. Refreshing beverages include freshly prepared juices, smoothies, and shakes.

4. Take in a Live Show at the Arcadia Performing Arts Center

Since 2012, the Arcadia Performing Arts Center has presented a diverse lineup of live events, establishing itself as the most active performance venue in the area.

The venue offers a large concert hall accommodating up to 1,153 attendees, along with an intimate theater seating 125 individuals.

Renowned events hosted at the center include theatrical performances, musicals, orchestral concerts, dance exhibitions, and award ceremonies.

5. Take the Kids to the Kidspace Children’s Museum

If you are searching for an activity that will engage children for a few hours on a rainy day, the Kidspace Children’s Museum located in nearby Pasadena features an extensive range of interactive exhibits that foster learning, creativity, and imagination.

Exhibits focused on art, science, and nature include the Arroyo Adventure Garden, the Galvin Physics Forest, and the Imagination Workshop. The critters area allows children to interact with live reptiles and insects.

Throughout the year, numerous educational events and programs take place at the museum.

6. Attend the Races at Santa Anita Race Park

Even in the absence of scheduled horse races during your visit to Santa Anita Race Park, this historic racetrack remains a compelling destination.

Established as the oldest thoroughbred racing track in the area, it is recognized as one of the country’s most endangered historical sites.

Featuring a 1930s-era Art Deco grandstand and its picturesque setting in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Santa Anita Race Park is regarded as one of the most visually appealing tracks of its kind globally.

Visitors can explore this beautiful venue and learn about its captivating history, including its time as a Japanese Internment Center during World War II.

If fortunate, you might attend events such as the Santa Anita Handicap, the Breeder’s Cup, or the Santa Anita Derby.

The Frontrunner Restaurant offers a selection of delectable seasonal dishes with scenic views of the track.

7. Taste Local Craft Beer at Mt. Lowe Brewing Co.

In addition to producing high-quality beers, Mt. Lowe Brewing Co. has developed a welcoming environment suitable for all ages, encouraging families to enjoy quality time together.

They achieve this by providing a casual atmosphere that incorporates comfortable seating and family-friendly games, such as air hockey and board games.

As the city’s inaugural microbrewery, they have been serving unique and flavorful brews crafted from premium ingredients since 2015.

Some selections available on tap include The Lowe Down IPA, Bungalow Blonde Ale, The Hills are Alive IPA, and The Thaddeus Stout.

8. Tour the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, located in nearby Pasadena, presents an intriguing and exclusive experience for visitors. Tours of this remarkable facility are available with prior arrangements.

The center is operated by a company named Caltech under NASA’s jurisdiction. Here, visitors can view robotic spacecraft and various deep-space initiatives, including the Mars Science Laboratory and the Curiosity Rover.

During the tour, which lasts just over two hours, guests will experience numerous demonstrations and a multimedia presentation. Visitors can also explore the von Karman Visitor Center and the Space Flight Operations Facility.

9. Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a vast historical site situated in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Since the late 1940s, it has transformed into the enchanting attraction it is today.

Initially comprising merely 1,000 trees, the site has expanded to include a tropical greenhouse and jungle garden. Distinct gardens such as the Native Oaks, the Aquatic Garden, and the Palm and Bamboo collection are just a few of the captivating landscapes you can experience while wandering the grounds.

10. Visit the Eaton Canyon Nature Center

Located at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Eaton Canyon Nature Center boasts an assortment of exhibits and live animal displays.

This expansive complex, featuring both indoor and outdoor attractions, offers an engaging and interactive educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Guests can also explore a scenic wilderness area filled with streams, rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna. Facilities including picnic areas, guided tours, nature walks, and trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding are also available.

11. Tee off at Santa Anita Golf Course

Santa Anita Golf Course offers a remarkable golfing experience with a beautifully maintained course that caters to all skill levels while remaining challenging enough to keep the game engaging. Meanwhile, breathtaking vistas of the San Gabriel Mountains accompany your play.

This 18-hole, par-71 course includes a well-stocked golf shop, ensuring you have all necessary equipment for an optimal experience. A driving range is also available for practice.

12. Admire Ancient and Modern Art at the USC Pacific Asia Museum

Since the early 1970s, the USC Pacific Asia Museum, located in nearby Pasadena, has been displaying both ancient and contemporary artworks from Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Over 15,000 items are exhibited, with some dating back over four thousand years.

Previous exhibitions featured themes such as We Are Here: Contemporary Art and Asian Voices in Los Angeles, Royal Taste, and Ceremonies & Celebrations.

Numerous events, including festivals, lectures, workshops, and cultural programs, take place at the museum throughout the year.

13. Spend a Day Outdoors at the Wilderness Park

The Wilderness Park in Arcadia is an idyllic location for immersing in nature. With stunning scenery, ample green spaces, and a vast array of activities, it offers a perfect environment for exploration.

The nature center provides opportunities to see some of the park’s wildlife, including deer, bears, and snakes. The park also features a network of hiking trails.

Additional amenities include picnic areas, campsites, and a pond, and guided nature walks are also available.

14. Visit the Pasadena Museum of History

The Pasadena Museum of History offers insights into the regional history and that of Pasadena, featuring an array of permanent and changing exhibits, archives, and galleries. Artifacts, historical clothing, and art pieces are on display.

The museum also provides tours of historic locations around the city.

15. Tour the Queen Anne Cottage and Coach Barn

Located within Santa Anita Park, the Queen Anne Cottage and Coach Barn are well-preserved buildings from the late 1800s, currently registered on the National Register of Historic Places.

The meticulously maintained Victorian-style sites allow for tours, guided by knowledgeable staff who will share the intriguing history of the property.