3-Day City Experience Itinerary in Alhambra, California

• Day 1: Start your day with a visit to the San Gabriel Mission, where you can learn about the history of the Spanish missionaries who came to California. Afterward, head to Alhambra Park for a peaceful picnic and to take in the natural beauty of the area. Then, end your day with a visit to the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, which boasts an impressive collection of art and literature as well as stunning gardens.
• Day 2: Today, start your day with a local breakfast at The Hat, known for their delicious pastrami sandwiches. Afterward, head to the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden to stroll through the beautiful gardens and see the peacocks roaming about. Next, visit the South Pasadena Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and find unique souvenirs. End your day with a visit to the Old Pasadena Historic District, which boasts historic buildings and a lively nightlife scene.
• Day 3: On your last day in Alhambra, start with a visit to the Wrigley Mansion, which offers stunning views of the city and a peek into the opulent lifestyle of the past. Next, head to the Norton Simon Museum, which has a vast collection of art from around the world, including works by renowned artists like Rembrandt and Degas. Finally, end your trip with a visit to the San Gabriel Square Mall, where you can shop, eat, and find unique souvenirs.

Time and Cost Estimates

• San Gabriel Mission (2 hours, free)
• Alhambra Park (1-2 hours, free)
• Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (4-6 hours, $25 admission fee)
• The Hat (1 hour, $10 for breakfast)
• Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden (2-3 hours, $15 admission fee)
• South Pasadena Farmers Market (1-2 hours, free)
• Old Pasadena Historic District (3-4 hours, free)
• Wrigley Mansion (1-2 hours, free)
• Norton Simon Museum (2-4 hours, $15 admission fee)
• San Gabriel Square Mall (2-3 hours, depends on spending)
Total Estimated Costs: $65 per person

Transportation

Alhambra is a city that can be easily navigated by car or public transportation. However, driving can be challenging in the busy Los Angeles area, and parking can be expensive. If using public transportation, consider purchasing a day pass for the Metro system for ease of transportation. Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Vincent Price Art Museum, which showcases a collection of works from around the world, or exploring nearby cities like Pasadena and Los Angeles. If you have less time, consider cutting out one of the museums or spending less time at the historic district. Additionally, be sure to check the weather beforehand and bring comfortable shoes, as most of the activities involve a significant amount of walking.

Airports

The closest airport to Alhambra is the Bob Hope Airport (BUR), which is about 25 minutes away by car. Alternatively, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about 40 minutes away by car. Both airports offer a variety of transportation options to get you to and from Alhambra.