Discover the Natural Wonders of Arcadia, California

• Day 1:
  • Explore the Los Angeles Arboretum & Botanic Garden, filled with 127 acres of beautiful gardens and historic landmarks. Stroll through the peacocks, lakes, and rose gardens as you take in the fresh Californian air.
  • Take a hike through the Angeles National Forest, just 30 minutes away from Arcadia. This vast forest boasts over 700,000 acres of hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.
  • End the day at the Mt. Wilson Observatory, a historic landmark atop the San Gabriel Mountains. See the stars, planets, and galaxies through the largest telescope in the world.
• Day 2:
  • Visit the Santa Anita Park, a world-renowned horse racing track with a historic background. Watch these magnificent animals race while enjoying some Californian sunshine.
  • Hike the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, a popular hiking trail that offers panoramic views of LA and the Pacific Ocean. Take some pictures by the Hollywood sign while you're at it.
  • End your day at the Griffith Observatory, where you can explore exhibits about the universe and see stars in the planetarium.
• Day 3:
  • Admire the Arcadia Wilderness Park, a natural park with hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Take in breathtaking views and get some fresh air in the great outdoors.
  • Visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, home to a vast collection of rare books, art, and plants. Stroll through 120 acres of stunning gardens and grounds.
  • End your trip at the Sturtevant Falls, a beautiful waterfall located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Take a dip in the refreshing water and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Los Angeles Arboretum & Botanic Garden (2-3 hours, $15)
• Angeles National Forest (4-6 hours, free)
• Mt. Wilson Observatory (2-3 hours, $15)
• Santa Anita Park (2-3 hours, $5+)
• Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook (2-3 hours, free)
• Griffith Observatory (2-3 hours, free)
• Arcadia Wilderness Park (4-5 hours, $5)
• Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (4-5 hours, $25)
• Sturtevant Falls (3-4 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: $65+

Transportation

If you plan to drive, car rental rates start at $30 per day, but keep in mind that traffic can be very heavy in LA. The city does have partially cheap transit options, such as the Metro Bus and Rail System which buses price start at $1.75 and should be taken into consideration when planning travel time. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available, but they can be costly depending on how far you're traveling.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to Santa Monica beach, just 45 minutes from Arcadia. For a shorter vacation, you might want to cut out a few attractions, depending on your interests. For example, if you're not keen on hiking, consider skipping the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and opting for an extra day at the Huntington Library or Mt. Wilson Observatory.

Airport

The nearest airport to Arcadia is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located about 30 miles west of the city center. LAX is the fifth busiest airport in the world, so be prepared for long lines and waiting periods. Alternatively, the Burbank Airport (BUR) is a smaller option located 20 miles northwest of Arcadia.