San Gabriel Valley Travel Guide
A complete travel guide for San Gabriel Valley, including must-see attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to San Gabriel Valley
- List of Places to Visit in San Gabriel Valley
- Hiking/Biking Routes of San Gabriel Valley
- Best Things to Do in San Gabriel Valley: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for San Gabriel Valley
- Food and Drink Scene of San Gabriel Valley
- Where to Stay in San Gabriel Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in San Gabriel Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of San Gabriel Valley
- Best Time to Visit San Gabriel Valley
- Do’s and Don’ts of San Gabriel Valley
- Safety and Health
- Getting to San Gabriel Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in San Gabriel Valley
- Where to Go Next from San Gabriel Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to San Gabriel Valley
San Gabriel Valley is a beautiful region in Los Angeles, Southern California, known for its diverse cultural heritage, scenic natural beauty, and thriving culinary scene. Bordered by the San Gabriel Mountains to the north and east, the Valley has a rich history dating back to the Mission era and offers visitors a range of activities from hiking and biking in the outdoors to exploring historical sites and museums. In this tour guide, we will detail the top places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in San Gabriel Valley.
List of Places to Visit in San Gabriel Valley
San Gabriel Valley is home to an array of must-see attractions, ranging from culturally important museums and historical sites to scenic natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Here is a list of the top places to visit in San Gabriel Valley:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
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Mission San Gabriel Arcangel: One of the oldest and most historic attractions in San Gabriel, founded in 1771, the Mission San Gabriel Arcangel is an iconic landmark that offers visitors a glimpse into California’s rich history.
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Norton Simon Museum: This world-renowned museum boasts an impressive collection of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, as well as Asian art from India and Southeast Asia.
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Japanese American National Museum: Dedicated to preserving and sharing the history, culture, and experiences of Japanese Americans, this museum is a must-visit for those interested in learning more about Japanese American history and culture.
Natural Attractions of San Gabriel Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
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San Gabriel Mountains: The San Gabriel Mountains offer visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and more. This majestic range is also home to scenic mountain lakes, rivers, and gorgeous waterfalls.
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Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden: This 127-acre botanical garden is home to a stunning array of flora and fauna from around the world. Visitors can explore gardens, lakes, and winding paths that showcase the beauty of nature.
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Mount Baldy: This popular hiking destination offers scenic views of the surrounding mountain range and an opportunity to hone your hiking skills on challenging trails.
Hiking/Biking Routes of San Gabriel Valley
San Gabriel Valley is a prime destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The region boasts an array of trails that take visitors through stunning natural landscapes. Here are some top hiking/biking routes in San Gabriel Valley:
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Eaton Canyon Falls Trail: This 3.5-mile trail offers a challenging hike that ends with a picturesque waterfall. Perfect for those looking for a moderate to difficult hiking experience.
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Gabrielino Trail: This 28-mile trail is perfect for experienced hikers and stretches from the mountains to the sea.
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Rio Hondo Trail: This relatively easy 17-mile trail follows Rio Hondo river and offers scenic views of the mountains.
Best Things to Do in San Gabriel Valley: Activities and Tours
San Gabriel Valley offers a range of activities and tours for visitors looking for an immersive experience. Here are some top things to do in San Gabriel Valley:
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Food tours: Sample a variety of dishes from the region’s diverse culinary scene on these guided food tours.
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Old Pasadena Walking Tour: Explore the rich history of Pasadena, one of the oldest cities in Southern California, on a guided walking tour.
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San Gabriel Valley Wine Country Tour: Enjoy a vineyard tour and wine tasting in the beautiful San Gabriel Valley.
Week-Long Itinerary for San Gabriel Valley
Here’s a week-long itinerary that includes some of the top things to do in San Gabriel Valley:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Mission San Gabriel Arcangel |
| 2 | Explore Norton Simon Museum followed by a food tour |
| 3 | Discover local wildlife at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden |
| 4 | Hike the San Gabriel Mountains followed by a visit to Mount Baldy |
| 5 | Take an Old Pasadena Walking Tour |
| 6 | Enjoy a San Gabriel Valley Wine Country Tour |
| 7 | End the week with a visit to the Japanese American National Museum |
Food and Drink Scene of San Gabriel Valley
San Gabriel Valley is famous for its diverse and delicious food scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
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Dim Sum at a local restaurant: San Gabriel Valley has some of the best dim sum places outside of Asia. Be sure to try some of their classic dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings) and Char Siu Bao (barbeque pork buns).
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Korean BBQ: The Korean food scene in San Gabriel Valley is legendary. A must-try is Korean BBQ, where you cook your own meat at the table and enjoy the delicious flavors.
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Chili Crab: This dish is a classic Singaporean seafood dish that is popular in San Gabriel Valley. Spicy, tangy, and sweet, it’s sure to tickle your taste buds.
Local Beverages
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Boba Milk Tea: Originating in Taiwan, Boba Milk Tea, also known as Bubble Tea, is a popular beverage in San Gabriel Valley. It’s a tea-based drink served with tapioca pearls or fruit jellies that add an instant burst of flavor.
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Craft Beers: San Gabriel Valley has a growing craft beer scene. Local breweries offer unique and flavorful beers, perfect for any beer enthusiast.
Where to Stay in San Gabriel Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
San Gabriel Valley offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some popular choices:
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Sheraton Los Angeles San Gabriel: A popular luxury hotel in San Gabriel Valley, this hotel is known for its modern amenities and excellent customer service.
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Old Santa Anita Inn: This historic hotel is a throwback to the early days of California’s glamourous hotels and is known for its rustic charm and quality service.
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GreenTree Pasadena Inn: This budget-friendly accommodation offers clean and comfortable rooms, perfect for travelers on a tight budget.
What to Buy in San Gabriel Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
San Gabriel Valley is known for its local food products and crafts. Here are some souvenirs worth bringing back:
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Asian snacks and candies: San Gabriel Valley is known for its wide variety of Asian snacks and candies. Be sure to visit one of the many Asian grocery stores in the area to stock up on unique treats.
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Handcrafted artisan goods: Local artisans offer a range of handcrafted goods, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles, perfect for a unique and special souvenir.
Local Culture and Customs of San Gabriel Valley
San Gabriel Valley is a melting pot of cultures and customs. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, including:
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Respect for elders: In many Asian cultures, respect for elders is an important value. Visitors should always show respect for elder family members and community leaders.
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Quiet time at night: Many neighborhoods in San Gabriel Valley observe a quiet time at night out of respect for neighbors and a desire for a peaceful environment. Visitors should be mindful of this and keep noise levels to a minimum.
Best Time to Visit San Gabriel Valley
The best time to visit San Gabriel Valley is between April and May or September and November. These months offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds than peak summer season.
Do’s and Don’ts of San Gabriel Valley
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting San Gabriel Valley:
Do:
- Be respectful of cultural customs and traditions.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
- Try the local cuisine and support local businesses.
Don’t:
- Engage in activities that harm the natural environment.
- Disrespect local customs and traditions.
- Be loud or disruptive in residential areas.
Safety and Health
San Gabriel Valley is a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should still take standard safety precautions, including:
Safety in San Gabriel Valley
- Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- Keep valuables and personal belongings secure.
- Observe traffic laws while driving or walking.
Health in San Gabriel Valley
- Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
- Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
- Be cautious when engaging in outdoor activities and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.
Getting to San Gabriel Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
Getting to San Gabriel Valley is easy. Here are some transportation options to get you there:
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Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): The closest major airport to San Gabriel Valley, LAX is the easiest and most convenient option for international travelers.
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Bob Hope Airport (BUR): Located in Burbank, Bob Hope Airport is a convenient option for domestic travel.
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Greyhound bus: San Gabriel Valley is served by several Greyhound bus stations, making it easy to travel within the region.
How to Get Around in San Gabriel Valley
Public transportation in San Gabriel Valley is limited and the best way to get around is by car. However, visitors can also use ride-hailing apps or taxis to get around the region.
Where to Go Next from San Gabriel Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
San Gabriel Valley is located near several other popular destinations in Southern California, including:
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Pasadena: Known for its iconic Rose Bowl stadium and picturesque Old Town district, Pasadena is a great place to explore after visiting San Gabriel Valley.
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Los Angeles: Just a short drive away, Los Angeles offers an array of attractions and activities, from museums and shopping to theme parks and beaches.
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Palm Springs: Within driving distance, Palm Springs is a popular desert destination known for its hot springs, golf courses, and spas.
Conclusion
San Gabriel Valley is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes and thriving food scene, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this iconic region of Southern California.
