Arcadia Travel Guide

Explore the wonders of Arcadia with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring everything from must-visit attractions and hiking routes to local cuisine and cultural customs.


Introduction to Arcadia

Nestled in the San Gabriel Valley, Arcadia is a charming city located in Los Angeles, California. With a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a welcoming community, Arcadia offers ample opportunities for adventure seekers, history buffs, foodies, and culture enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Arcadia

No matter what your interests are, Arcadia has something to offer. From museums to natural wonders, here are some of the must-visit attractions in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage: Located in Downtown Arcadia, this museum boasts a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city’s rich history.

  • The Santa Anita Depot: A historic train station in Arcadia that served as a stop for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway. Today it’s been renovated to house the Arcadia Historical Society Museum.

  • The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden: Located on the outskirts of Arcadia this 127-acre botanical garden features a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees.

Natural Attractions of Arcadia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Angeles National Forest: Located just a few miles from downtown Arcadia, this forest offers endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping.

  • The San Gabriel Mountains: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, these mountains offer panoramic views, stunning trails, and plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

  • The Santa Anita Canyon: A beautiful area located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains that features a waterfall, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arcadia

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, Arcadia is the perfect destination for you. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking trails in the area:

  • Chantry Flat: Located in the Angeles National Forest, this trail features beautiful views of the canyon, a seasonal waterfall, and plenty of natural beauty.

  • The Gabrielino Trail: This popular trail follows the San Gabriel River and offers breathtaking views of the mountains as well as opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and other activities.

  • The Santa Anita Loop Trail: This loop trail offer a great views of Los Angeles basin, passes a seasonal waterfall, crosses the rugged and deep Chantry Flat Canyon and offers opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and camping along the route.

Best Things to Do in Arcadia: Activities and Tours

No trip to Arcadia is complete without experiencing some of the city’s unique activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in Arcadia:

  • Race Track Tours: Santa Anita Park is a world-renowned horse racing track that also offers tours and Museum visits.
  • Park After Dark: The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden offers “Park After Dark,” monthly events featuring live music, food trucks, and botanical walks through the garden under the stars.
  • The Arcadia Agricultural Tour: This tour offers a sneak peek into the agricultural history of Arcadia, including a visit to a local farm and a farmer’s market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arcadia

If you’re planning to spend a week in Arcadia, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage
2 Hike the Santa Anita Canyon Trail and enjoy a picnic
3 Visit the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden and learn about the plants and flowers
4 Take a guided tour of the historic Santa Anita Park horse racing track
5 Take a day trip to the Angeles National Forest and hike the Gabrielino Trail
6 Enjoy the Park After Dark event at the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden
7 Take the Arcadia Agricultural tour and buy some local produce to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Arcadia

Arcadia is famous for its diverse and delicious cuisine, ranging from authentic Chinese food to American classics. Some of the must-try dishes in Arcadia include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dim sum: Arcadia is home to some of the best Chinese restaurants in the country, and dim sum is a must-try dish. We recommend going to Din Tai Fung or Sea Harbour Seafood Restaurant for the best experience.

  • The Original Pork Burger at Father’s Office: This burger joint has a reputation for serving one of the best burgers around.

  • Ice Cream at Paradis: This artisanal ice cream shop features flavors like Belgian chocolate and creme brulee.

Local Beverages

  • Boba Milk Tea: You can’t visit Arcadia without trying the famous boba milk tea. A lot of boba places scatter the city, but 7 Leaves Cafe and Half and Half Tea House are the local favorites.

  • Craft Beer at Mt. Lowe Brewing: Take a sip of some locally brewed beer at Mt. Lowe Brewing Co., the first brewery in the area.

Where to Stay in Arcadia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Arcadia offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in Arcadia:

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Arcadia: This luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms and suites as well as amenities like a fitness center, a pool, and a restaurant.

  • Extended Stay America: This budget-friendly option features comfortable rooms with full kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and a convenient location near popular attractions.

  • Airbnb or Vacation Rentals: You can rent out an entire house or a room in the city, making it a more affordable option, with a more personal touch.

What to Buy in Arcadia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to take home, here are some of the best options in Arcadia:

  • Lucky Baldwin’s Pub and Cafe: This cozy pub offers a variety of British goodies, including tea, biscuits, and other treats.

  • The Arcadia Farmers’ Market: This market offers fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and other local products.

  • Shops on Huntington Drive: Arcadia’s historic downtown features antique shops, boutiques, and other small businesses that are great for souvenir shopping.

Local Culture and Customs of Arcadia

Arcadia is a multicultural city that celebrates its diversity and heritage. Here are some of the customs and traditions that you may experience during your visit:

  • Chinese New Year: Arcadia has a large Chinese-American population, and the city celebrates Chinese New Year with a vibrant parade and other festivities.

  • Arcadia’s Historical Centennial: The city is celebrating its centennial with year-long activities, including concerts, cultural celebrations, and other events.

Best Time to Visit Arcadia

The best time to visit Arcadia is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and dry, making outdoor activities less enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arcadia

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Arcadia:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Try the local cuisine and explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

  • Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

  • Be mindful of the environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles when hiking and camping.

Don’t:

  • Tread off the marked path, particularly during the recommended hiking places.

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Leave your valuables unattended in public places.

Safety and Health

Arcadia is a safe city, and there are no major health risks. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings

Safety in Arcadia

  • Make sure to lock your car and keep valuable belongings out of sight.

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly when hiking and camping.

Health in Arcadia

  • It is important to stay well hydrated while hiking, and wearing loose and comfortable clothing will help prevent dehydration.

  • Be aware of ticks that carry Lyme disease when you’re hiking in some areas of the city.

Getting to Arcadia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Arcadia is located in Southern California, within easy reach of Los Angeles and several airports. Here are some transportation options to consider:

  • Airports Near Arcadia: The nearest major airports are the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Bob Hope Airport, and Long Beach Airport, each within a two-hour drive of the city.

  • Bus Stations Near Arcadia: The nearby cities of Pasadena and El Monte both have bus stations that connect to Arcadia.

  • Other Options: Renting a car or hiring a ridesharing service can be a convenient option for getting around the city.

How to Get Around in Arcadia

The best way to get around Arcadia is by car, bike, Public Transit, or foot. Biking is a popular way to explore the city’s neighborhoods and natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Arcadia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Southern California, there are plenty of destinations near Arcadia that are worth visiting. Here are some suggestions:

  • Los Angeles: Located just 15 miles away, Los Angeles has endless attractions, restaurants and cultural attractions to explore.

  • Santa Barbara: This beautiful coastal city is just a two-hour drive north of Arcadia.

  • San Diego: Located about two hours south, San Diego is home to the famous San Diego Zoo, beaches and restaurants.

Conclusion

With its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming community, Arcadia is a hidden gem in Southern California’s San Gabriel Valley. From hiking trails and scenic views to local cuisine and cultural customs, this city has something to offer for everyone, making it a perfect destination for your next getaway.

The beautiful historic Queen Anne House is in the Los Angeles County Arboretum. The beautiful historic Queen Anne House is in the Los Angeles County Arboretum. Old storefront of the popular Ding Tai Fung Dumpling House Old storefront of the popular Ding Tai Fung Dumpling House