admin San Gabriel Valley Map
Introduction
The San Gabriel Valley is a diverse and vibrant region located in Southern California. It is home to a variety of attractions, hidden gems, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Whether you are a local or a tourist, this comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the best that the San Gabriel Valley has to offer.
Top Attractions
1. Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington Library is a must-visit attraction for art and nature lovers. It features an extensive art collection, including works by Gainsborough, Reynolds, and Van Gogh. The botanical gardens cover over 120 acres and showcase a variety of plants and flowers from around the world.
2. Santa Anita Park
Santa Anita Park is a historic horse racing track that has been in operation since 1934. It offers live racing, off-track betting, and a variety of dining options.
3. San Gabriel Mission
The San Gabriel Mission is a historical landmark that dates back to 1771. It is a fascinating glimpse into the region’s colonial past and features an impressive collection of religious artifacts.
Hidden Gems
1. Eaton Canyon Falls
Eaton Canyon Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the San Gabriel Mountains. It is accessible via a moderate hiking trail and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. The Bunny Museum
The Bunny Museum is a quirky and offbeat attraction that is sure to delight visitors of all ages. It features a collection of over 30,000 bunny-related items, including stuffed animals, figurines, and artwork.
3. The Stuffed Sandwich
The Stuffed Sandwich is a hidden gem for foodies. It is a small deli that serves up some of the best sandwiches in the San Gabriel Valley. The menu features a variety of options, including pastrami, roast beef, and turkey.
Food Scene
The San Gabriel Valley is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. Here are some must-try dishes:
1. Dim Sum
Dim sum is a traditional Chinese meal that features small plates of dumplings, buns, and other savory treats. Some of the best dim sum in the San Gabriel Valley can be found at Din Tai Fung and Sea Harbour.
2. Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup
Taiwanese beef noodle soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold day. Some of the best versions can be found at Mama’s Lu and Yi Mei Deli.
3. Korean BBQ
Korean BBQ is a fun and interactive dining experience that involves cooking your own meat at the table. Some of the best Korean BBQ in the San Gabriel Valley can be found at Gen Korean BBQ and Road to Seoul.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Here are some tips to help you save money in the San Gabriel Valley:
1. Take the Metro
The Metro is an affordable and convenient way to get around the San Gabriel Valley. A day pass costs just $7 and gives you unlimited rides on all Metro buses and trains.
2. Visit during Happy Hour
Many restaurants in the San Gabriel Valley offer discounted prices during happy hour. This is a great way to sample some of the region’s best food and drinks without breaking the bank.
3. Stay in a Hostel
If you are on a tight budget, consider staying in a hostel. Hostels offer affordable accommodations and are a great way to meet other travelers.
Outdoor Adventures
The San Gabriel Valley is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best outdoor activities:
1. Hiking
The San Gabriel Mountains offer a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Some popular trails include Mt. Baldy, Bridge to Nowhere, and Echo Mountain.
2. Mountain Biking
The San Gabriel Mountains are also a popular destination for mountain bikers. Some popular trails include Brown Mountain and El Prieto.
3. Rock Climbing
The San Gabriel Mountains offer some of the best rock climbing in Southern California. Some popular climbing spots include Stoney Point and Echo Cliffs.
Family-Friendly Activities
The San Gabriel Valley is a great destination for families. Here are some activities that kids will love:
1. Kidspace Children’s Museum
Kidspace Children’s Museum is a fun and interactive museum that offers hands-on exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.
2. Los Angeles Zoo
The Los Angeles Zoo is a great place to see a variety of animals from around the world. It also offers a variety of educational programs and special events.
3. Raging Waters
Raging Waters is a water park that offers a variety of water slides, pools, and other attractions. It is a great place to cool off on a hot day.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for something unique and offbeat, the San Gabriel Valley has plenty to offer. Here are some ideas:
1. The Bunny Museum
As mentioned earlier, the Bunny Museum is a quirky and offbeat attraction that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
2. The Magic Castle
The Magic Castle is a private club for magicians and magic enthusiasts. It offers nightly magic shows and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the art of magic.
3. The Huntington Desert Garden
The Huntington Desert Garden is a stunning collection of cacti and succulents from around the world. It is a great place to explore if you are interested in desert plants.
Natural Wonders
The San Gabriel Valley is home to a variety of natural wonders. Here are some of the best:
1. Eaton Canyon Falls
As mentioned earlier, Eaton Canyon Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the San Gabriel Mountains.
2. Vasquez Rocks
Vasquez Rocks is a unique rock formation that has been featured in many movies and TV shows. It is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing.
3. San Gabriel Mountains
The San Gabriel Mountains offer stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. They are a must-visit for anyone interested in nature and the outdoors.
Vibrant Nightlife
The San Gabriel Valley offers a variety of nightlife options, from bars to clubs to live music venues. Here are some suggestions:
1. The Granada
The Granada is a historic theater that offers a variety of live performances, from music to comedy to theater.
2. 38 Degrees Ale House
38 Degrees Ale House is a popular bar that offers a variety of craft beers and pub fare. It is a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring.
3. The Ice House Comedy Club
The Ice House Comedy Club is a legendary comedy club that has launched the careers of many famous comedians. It offers nightly shows and is a must-visit for comedy fans.
Local Markets
The San Gabriel Valley is home to a variety of local markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique shopping experiences. Here are some to check out:
1. Alhambra Farmers Market
The Alhambra Farmers Market is a weekly market that offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and other artisanal foods.
2. San Gabriel Square
San Gabriel Square is a large outdoor shopping center that offers a variety of Asian foods, goods, and services.
3. Old Town Pasadena Farmers Market
The Old Town Pasadena Farmers Market is a popular market that offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
The San Gabriel Valley is located near both the beach and the mountains, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some suggestions:
1. Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. It also offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
2. Mt. Baldy
Mt. Baldy is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is a popular destination for surfing and sunbathing. It also offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
Cultural Imm