A Memorable 3-Day Trip to Irwindale, California

  • Day 1: Exploring the City Center
    Discover the heart of Irwindale by starting your day at the Baby Blues BBQ, a recommended spot for breakfast. Afterward, take a short stroll to Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area and enjoy a calm morning hiking trail. Continue to Azusa Canyon, and opt for a scenic drive, hike, and picnic lunch. Return to Irwindale and grab dinner at The Dal Rae, which offers delicious seafood options.
  • Day 2: Sightseeing the Best Spots
    Begin your day at Arcadia County Park, a great spot to jog or play outdoor games. Afterward, drive to San Gabriel Mountains to explore the Angeles National Forest, which allows for picturesque views and a nature walk. Tour the Mission San Gabriel Arcangel, then visit the Museum of History & Art, where you can learn more about the history of the city. End the day with an iconic meal at Tung Lai Shun, which serves authentic Chinese cuisine.
  • Day 3: Family Fun Day
    Fun for the entire family, kick-off day three with breakfast at Original Pancake House. Drive to nearby Azusa Lost Lake Park and rent paddle boats, bikes, or fish. Continue to San Gabriel Valley Gun Club for some target shooting and hunting. Finally, top off the day with a fascinating cultural experience at Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple. Enjoy dinner with a view at the Clearman's North Woods Inn, which serves steaks and seafood.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Baby Blues BBQ (1 hour, $15-20)
  • Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area (2-3 hours, $10 parking)
  • Azusa Canyon (4-5 hours, $30 parking & food)
  • The Dal Rae (2 hours+, $40-60)
  • Arcadia County Park (1-2 hours, free)
  • San Gabriel Mountains & Angeles National Forest (4-5 hours, $5 parking)
  • Mission San Gabriel Arcangel (1 hour, $5 entrance fee)
  • Museum of History & Art (2-3 hours, free)
  • Tung Lai Shun (1.5 hours, $20-30)
  • Original Pancake House (1 hour, $10-15)
  • Azusa Lost Lake Park (2-3 hours, $15-20)
  • San Gabriel Valley Gun Club (1-2 hours, $20-30)
  • Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Temple (2-3 hours, free)
  • Clearman's North Woods Inn (2 hours+, $40-60)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $250-350

Transportation

When traveling to Irwindale, consider renting a car as it is the best way to navigate the area’s attractions. Public transport like buses and trains are available, but they are not as convenient for those looking to cover more ground at their own pace. The trip from the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Irwindale will take approximately 1 hour depending on traffic, and the total transportation cost may be around $50.

Useful Tips

For travelers with more timeline, you can add a day trip to visit the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, located an hour away from Irwindale. For those with less time, consider skipping a museum visit and another sight or consider spending half days in some destinations, and pick your favorites or stay in the Irwindale's city center. Lastly, remember to carry sunblock, comfortable shoes or clothes, and some extra cash to tip service attendants.

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