Covina Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and local customs in Covina, California.


Introduction to Covina

Located in San Gabriel Valley, Covina is a charming city in Southern California that is a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. With a variety of exciting activities, including hiking, biking, and cultural attractions, Covina is a dream destination for adventure seekers and travelers seeking unique experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Covina has something for everyone to enjoy.

List of Places to Visit in Covina

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Covina has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore exciting historical sites and museums that offer a glimpse into the past.

  1. Covina Historical Society: Founded in 1969, the Covina Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the city’s rich history. Visitors can tour the society’s museum, which features exhibits depicting the city’s past, including vintage photographs and artifacts.

  2. Hurst Ranch Historical Center: This historic ranch features a restored adobe home, Victorian cottage, and barn that are open for guided tours. Visitors can learn about the area’s early ranching days and the city’s agricultural history.

  3. The Gilroy Museum: This charming museum features exhibits on the city’s early founders, the history of local schools, and the area’s citrus-growing past. Visitors can also enjoy unique artifacts, including vintage clothing and fire engines.

Natural Attractions of Covina: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Covina offers a wide array of natural attractions for outdoor adventures and scenic views.

  1. Covina Hills: Located in the northeast part of the city, Covina Hills is a nature lover’s paradise, featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and a viewpoint with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

  2. San Gabriel Mountains: The San Gabriel Mountains offer stunning scenery and an opportunity for outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and skiing.

  3. Mt. San Antonio (Mt. Baldy): This striking peak is the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains, and visitors can hike, ski, or take a scenic drive up to the summit.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Covina

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, there are numerous trails and routes to explore in and around Covina.

  1. San Gabriel River Trail: This scenic trail runs through San Gabriel Valley and is perfect for biking, hiking, or jogging.

  2. Big Dalton Canyon Nature Trail: Located in neighboring Glendora, this trail features stunning views of the canyon and wildlife.

  3. Covina Hills Trails: Visitors can explore the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains with views of the surrounding valley.

Best Things to Do in Covina: Activities and Tours

Covina has a variety of exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy.

  1. Puente Hills Mall: This premier shopping destination has over 150 stores and restaurants, offering a wide range of retail, dining, and entertainment options.

  2. Covina Bowl: This classic bowling alley has been a favorite for locals and visitors alike for over 60 years. Visitors can enjoy bowling, arcade games, and delicious food at the on-site café.

  3. Covina Farmers Market: This popular market offers locally-sourced produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Week-Long Itinerary for Covina

For visitors looking to explore Covina’s top attractions, here’s a week-long itinerary to make the most of your stay.

Day Activity
1 Visit Covina Historical Society Museum and Hurst Ranch Historical Center
2 Explore San Gabriel Mountains
3 Bike or walk along San Gabriel River Trail
4 Visit the Gilroy Museum and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
5 Take a scenic drive up to Mt. San Antonio (Mt. Baldy)
6 Shop at Puente Hills Mall and enjoy an evening of bowling at Covina Bowl
7 Visit Covina Farmers Market and hike the Covina Hills Trails

Food and Drink Scene of Covina

Covina offers a diverse selection of cuisines, and visitors can explore the area’s vibrant food and drink scene.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tacos: Visitors can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at local taquerias, featuring delicious street tacos.

  2. Pho: Covina has several Vietnamese restaurants, offering flavorful pho noodle soup.

  3. Burgers: Covina has numerous burger joints and diners, featuring classic all-American fare.

Local Beverages

  1. Craft Beer: Visit Pacific Plate Brewing Company, featuring a rotating selection of craft beers and a comfortable tasting room.

  2. Coffee: Check out classic coffee shops, including Kelly’s Bakery and Cafe and Looney Bean Coffe, offering local blends and artisanal roasts.

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

For visitors looking for comfortable accommodations, Covina has a variety of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to choose from.

  1. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Los Angeles - Rosemead: This comfortable hotel features on-site dining, swimming pool, and fitness center.

  2. Motel 6: This budget-friendly option offers no-frills accommodations with comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi.

  3. Airbnb: Visitors can choose from a variety of affordable and unique accommodations, including guesthouses and shared apartments.

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

Visitors can find several unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Covina.

  1. Citrus Fruits: Covina’s history is rooted in citrus farming, and visitors can purchase fresh citrus fruits at local farmer’s markets.

  2. Handmade Crafts: Check out local artisanal shops and markets, featuring handmade jewelry and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Covina

Covina has a vibrant local culture, and visitors can explore unique customs and traditions.

  1. Religious Festivals: Covina is home to several religious festivals, including the annual Santa Fe Dam Holi Festival of Colors.

  2. Local Sports: Covina is home to several sports teams, including the high school football team, the Covina Colts.

Best Time to Visit Covina

The best time to visit Covina is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors can also enjoy mild temperatures during the spring and fall months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Covina

Do:

  1. Visit Local Markets: Experience local culture and meet locals by visiting neighborhood markets.

  2. Respect Local Customs: Covina is a diverse city, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  1. Litter: Keep the city clean by disposing of trash properly.

  2. Overlook Natural Attractions: Be sure to explore Covina’s natural attractions, including the San Gabriel Mountains and Covina Hills.

Safety and Health

Safety in Covina

Covina is a generally safe city, but visitors should take necessary precautions, such as locking car doors and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Covina

Visitors should take necessary precautions to stay healthy, including drinking plenty of water, using sunscreen, and staying cool during hot weather.

Getting to Covina: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Covina can arrive via several transportation options.

Airports Near Covina

  1. Los Angeles International Airport: Located about 45 minutes away from Covina, LAX offers a variety of domestic and international flights.

  2. Ontario International Airport: Located about 30 minutes away from Covina, Ontario Airport offers flights to several domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Covina

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines: Greyhound offers several bus routes to and from Covina.

  2. Foothill Transit: Foothill Transit offers several bus routes throughout the San Gabriel Valley.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi to Covina.

How to Get Around in Covina

Visitors can get around Covina’s city center on foot or by using ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft. Visitors can also take buses, taxis, or rental cars to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Covina: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore several nearby destinations and excursions from Covina, including:

  1. Universal Studios Hollywood: Located about an hour away, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-see attraction for movie lovers and families.

  2. Disneyland: Located about 45 minutes away, Disneyland offers a magical experience for children and adults alike.

Conclusion

Covina is a beautiful city that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a culture buff, food lover, outdoor adventurer, or simply seeking to relax, Covina has something for everyone to experience. Plan your visit today and explore all that this charming city has to offer.