Arcadia is a charming city located in Los Angeles County, California. Nestled at the foothills of the scenic San Gabriel Mountains, Arcadia offers visitors beautiful parks, historic sites, unique museums, and great dining and entertainment options.
Whether you’re a nature lover looking to explore the outdoors, a history buff interested in learning about the city’s past, or someone seeking fun activities with family and friends, Arcadia has something for you. Here are the 12 best things to do in Arcadia CA for an enjoyable and memorable visit:
1. Hike through Wilderness Park
Covering over 110 acres of land, Wilderness Park1 offers hiking trails that take you past rocky outcroppings, oak woodlands, and scenic valley overlooks. The park features a nature center with live animal exhibits and ponds. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy panoramic views of Arcadia and the San Gabriel Mountains.
Bring along a picnic lunch to dine alfresco after your hike. The tables along the walking paths make perfect spots to relax in nature.
2. Tour the Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage
The Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage chronicles the city’s history through photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about Arcadia’s transformation from an early agricultural hub to a present-day suburban community.
Some highlights of the museum include vintage carriages and wagons, posters from Arcadia’s racing past, and exhibits detailing Chinese immigration and architectural influences. Don’t miss the replica of the city’s first post office!
3. Spend a Day at Santa Anita Park
Santa Anita Park2 is one of America’s most celebrated thoroughbred racetracks. It hosts races from December through June. Watch the majestic horses thunder down the track from stadium seating and fancy trackside boxes.
Even non-racing days offer activities like tram tours and family-friendly festivals. Around the holidays, the infield transforms into a winter wonderland complete with snow tubing slopes.
4. Explore the Los Angeles County Arboretum
Stretching across 127 acres, the Los Angeles County Arboretum3 is a living museum of plants from around the world. Wander through diverse themed gardens like the Mediterranean Garden, Tropical Greenhouse, and Victorian Rose Garden.
The Arboretum also contains historic buildings like the Coach Barn and Queen Anne Cottage, which offer a glimpse into 19th-century architecture. Peacocks roam freely around the grounds, putting on a colorful display.
5. Take in Stunning Mountain Views from Chantry Flat Picnic Area
Nestled high in the San Gabriel Mountains, Chantry Flat Picnic Area4 promises breathtaking scenery in a peaceful wilderness setting. The recreation site sits at the top of Santa Anita Canyon with plenty of shade provided by oak and pine trees.
Pack a basket full of snacks and unwind on the picnic tables and benches near the gurgling creek. From here, you can access several hiking trails that climb up the forested mountain slopes.
- Address: Chantry Flat Rd, Arcadia, CA 91006, United States
- Phone: +1 626-574-1613
6. Learn About Space Exploration at Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Though not located directly in Arcadia, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory5 is a quick drive away in La Cañada Flintridge. As NASA’s center for robotic exploration of the universe, it’s home to the Mars Rovers and Voyager spacecraft.
Take a public tour to view mission control, see spacecraft models up close, and learn how satellites gather information. Advance reservations are required for tours.
7. Enjoy Family Fun at Jump N’ Jammin’
Jump N’ Jammin’ is an indoor playground located inside Westfield Santa Anita shopping mall. It’s designed especially for kids ages 12 and under to expend energy in a safe, clean environment.
Kids can climb three-level structures, slide down twirling slides, battle foam ball canons, drive go-karts, play laser tag, or get creative in arts n’ crafts areas. Parent supervision is required.
8. Marvel at Fun Box
Fun Box6 houses over two dozen giant art pieces like the 14-foot-long blue crab, the Golden Men statues, and replicas of Egypt’s Great Sphinx.
Kids can roam around the exhibits and interactive installations spread across 20,000 square feet. Adults appreciate the unique selfie backgrounds. Fun Box also contains arcade games and VR experiences.
9. Buy One-of-a-Kind Finds at Vintage Treasures and Antiques
Calling all vintage lovers! Vintage Treasures and Antiques offers rare items you won’t find anywhere else: jewelry, furniture, glassware, postcards, books, linen, china sets, and more spanning Victorian through 1970’s eras.
Expect to uncover unique conversation starters perfect for your antique décor at home. You’ll want to leave room in your suitcase! Cash or check only.
10. Chow Down at 626 Night Market
Modeled after popular outdoor Taiwanese markets, 626 Night Market ((https://www.626nightmarket.com/)) brings Asian street food and vendors to Arcadia. Wander down the lively lanes sampling dishes like crab-boiled potatoes, takoyaki, spam musubi, ube waffles, and more.
Address: 285 Huntington Dr, Arcadia, CA 91007, United States
Beyond the food court, talent competitions, craft booths, anime merchandise, and live music stages pack in the crowds. The vibrant market runs spring through fall seasons annually.
11. Catch Live Music Performances
Arcadia has two key spots for catching local musicians of all genres from rock, jazz, and blues to acoustic sets. Relax with drinks and hearty pub fare as you take in the shows.
Popular venues include The Royal Falconer offering rock/alternative bands and Matt Denny’s Ale House hosting blues artists in an English-style tavern setting decorated with global beer signs.
12. Wine Taste Your Way through California Wine Festival
Oenophiles flock to Arcadia each May when Santa Anita Park fills with California wineries during the California Wine Festival. Sample vino from Napa to Temecula while enjoying gourmet bites, craft brews, and live music.
The signature event Wine and Food Jubilee features 400 wines and foods prepared by local chefs. Learn about winemaking or enter tasting competitions. With picturesque mountain views as your backdrop, it’s an afternoon to remember.
Conclusion
From scenic foothill trails ripe for adventure to historic racetracks and interactive museums for families, Arcadia offers plenty of sights and activities to fill your itinerary. Its prime location near Los Angeles provides easy access while allowing you to avoid big city congestion.
Whether planning a quick weekend escape or a longer family vacation, Arcadia’s blend of outdoor recreation, rich heritage, unique attractions and dining diversity promises fun for all interests. Use this list to get your trip started and enjoy making memories amid Arcadia’s natural beauty and small town charm.