San Gabriel Travel Guide

Plan your next travel itinerary with our comprehensive tour guide for San Gabriel. Discover the best places to visit, food scene, culture, and more.


Introduction to San Gabriel

Located in the San Gabriel Valley within the Los Angeles metropolitan area, San Gabriel is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. The city has a diverse population, and the influence of Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, and other ethnic communities is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals.

List of Places to Visit in San Gabriel

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. San Gabriel Mission: Founded in 1771 by Franciscan missionaries, this historic site is a must-visit attraction. The mission church, museum, and gardens showcase the area’s history and cultural legacy.

  2. The Old Mission Playhouse: Built in 1927, this Spanish Colonial Revival-style theater hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a popular destination for visitors.

  3. San Gabriel Historical Museum: Housed in the old jail, the museum displays artifacts and exhibits that capture the city’s history and development over time.

Natural Attractions of San Gabriel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. San Gabriel Mountains: These stunning mountains offer hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the region, which includes scenic forests, streams, and waterfalls.

  2. Valley View Trail: This popular hiking trail offers a serene escape from the city. The trail winds through a lush forest and offers panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley.

  3. Eaton Canyon Natural Area: This 190-acre park features hiking trails, a nature center, and a waterfall. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a picnic, hike, or bird-watch.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Gabriel

  1. Mount Wilson Trail: A challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

  2. Gabrielino Trail: This scenic route winds through the San Gabriel Mountains and offers some of the region’s best views.

  3. San Gabriel River Trail: A popular biking route that runs along the San Gabriel River, offering beautiful views of the valley.

Best Things to Do in San Gabriel: Activities and Tours

  1. San Gabriel Valley Food Tour: Explore the city’s diverse food scene with a guided tour that takes you to some of the best dining destinations in the area.

  2. Ghost Tour of San Gabriel: Discover the city’s spooky past with this guided tour that explores haunted locations and mysterious legends.

  3. San Gabriel Valley Art Walk: This annual event showcases local artists and galleries, giving visitors a chance to browse and purchase original works.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Gabriel

Day Activity
1 Visit San Gabriel Mission and Historical Museum
2 Explore San Gabriel Valley Food Scene
3 Hike to San Gabriel Mountains or Eaton Canyon Natural Area
4 Attend a performance at the Old Mission Playhouse
5 Take a Ghost Tour of San Gabriel
6 Visit Valley View Trail or San Gabriel River Trail
7 Attend the San Gabriel Valley Art Walk

Food and Drink Scene of San Gabriel

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Dim Sum: San Gabriel is known for its Chinese cuisine, and no visit is complete without trying the city’s legendary dim sum.

  2. Tacos: The city’s Mexican food scene is equally impressive, with street vendors and restaurants serving up delicious tacos, burritos, and other classic dishes.

  3. Ramen: Japanese Ramen is another favorite of local foodies, with the city offering authentic and creative takes on this beloved global dish.

Local Beverages

  1. Boba Tea: San Gabriel is famous for its boba tea, with dozens of shops and cafes offering the delightful, sweet, and chewy drink.

  2. Craft Beer: The city has embraced the craft beer trend, with brewers producing some of the region’s best IPAs, stouts, and other brews.

  3. Tequila and Mezcal: Mexican spirits like tequila and mezcal are gaining popularity, and San Gabriel has many bars and restaurants offering top-shelf versions of these classic drinks.

Where to Stay in San Gabriel: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hilton Los Angeles/San Gabriel: This upscale hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and outdoor pool, and is conveniently located near many of the city’s top attractions.

  2. Mission Motel: This charming, family-owned motel offers basic amenities at affordable prices and is located within walking distance of the San Gabriel Mission.

What to Buy in San Gabriel: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Chinese Souvenirs: From jade jewelry to silk robes, there are plenty of gift shops and markets selling traditional Chinese souvenirs.

  2. Local Crafts: San Gabriel has a thriving creative community, and visitors can find unique and one-of-a-kind artworks, clothes, and other handmade items at local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of San Gabriel

San Gabriel celebrates its diversity, with residents and visitors alike encouraged to discover and participate in the city’s festivals, cultural celebrations, and events. From Chinese New Year to Dia de los Muertos, there’s always something colorful and exciting happening.

Best Time to Visit San Gabriel

The weather is mild and pleasant year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring and fall when the city’s many festivals and events take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Gabriel

Do:

  1. Respect the city’s diverse community and cultural traditions.

  2. Sample the local cuisine, including Chinese, Mexican, and Japanese dishes.

  3. Follow all safety guidelines when hiking or camping in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Don’t:

  1. Trespass on private property.

  2. Litter or damage any natural or cultural resources.

  3. Engage in any disrespectful or illegal activity.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Gabriel

San Gabriel is a safe and crime-free city, but visitors are advised to take basic precautions, such as locking their vehicles and belongings, avoiding walking alone at night, and staying aware of their surroundings.

Health in San Gabriel

The city has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, and visitors can access quality medical care if needed.

Getting to San Gabriel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Gabriel

  1. Los Angeles International Airport: Located approximately 30 miles west of San Gabriel, LAX is the nearest major airport serving the city.

  2. Bob Hope Airport: Located in Burbank, approximately 15 miles northwest of San Gabriel, this regional airport primarily serves domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near San Gabriel

  1. El Monte Bus Station: This hub serves several bus lines and is located approximately 4 miles south of San Gabriel.

  2. Greyhound Bus Station: This national bus line serves several cities along the coast, including San Gabriel.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service to reach San Gabriel.

How to Get Around in San Gabriel

The city is relatively small and easily navigable by car, bike, or foot. There are several local bus lines, too, which serve key areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from San Gabriel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Los Angeles: Just a short drive from San Gabriel, Los Angeles is a vast and vibrant city with endless opportunities for entertainment, culture, and exploration.

  2. Santa Monica: This picturesque beachfront community is located on the outskirts of Los Angeles and features an iconic pier, beautiful beaches, and upscale shopping and dining options.

  3. Palm Springs: Located approximately 100 miles east of San Gabriel, this desert oasis boasts natural hot springs, luxurious resorts, and fantastic golf courses.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, cuisine, or outdoor recreation, San Gabriel has something to offer. Plan your next trip now to this dynamic and diverse city, and discover all of the unique experiences it has in store for you.