Discover Arcadia, California in 1 Day

• The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden (9:00 AM) - Get ready to be amazed by the picturesque scenery of this garden that spans 127 acres. With thousands of different plant species on display, it's sure to be a fantastic photo opportunity. Don't miss the Queen Anne Cottage and Peacock Cafe, where you can grab a cup of coffee and enjoy the beautiful peacocks roaming around.
• Santa Anita Park (11:00 AM) - Located in the heart of Arcadia, Santa Anita Park is known as the "Great Race Place." Racehorses have been running here since 1934, and the park has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the racetrack, explore the paddock gardens, and get an up-close look at the stunning racehorses.
• Westfield Santa Anita Mall (1:00 PM) - Shop until you drop at the Westfield Santa Anita Mall. This mall features numerous high-end stores, such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, and Tiffany & Co. Make sure you stop by Din Tai Fung and try their famous soup dumplings, a must-have on your visit.
• The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (4:00 PM) - This 207-acre estate is a must-see attraction in Arcadia, California. Stroll through the gardens, visit the art museum that features an exceptional collection of British and French art from the 18th and 19th centuries or explore the library’s impressive collection of rare books and documents, including a Gutenberg Bible.
• Din Tai Fung (6:30 PM) - Conclude your day of exploration with dinner at Din Tai Fung, which serves renowned steamed dumplings as part of its Taiwanese menu. Their soup dumplings are a must-try, and their varied menu has something for everyone.

Time and Cost Estimates

• The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden (2 hours, $15)
• Santa Anita Park (2 hours, $30)
• Westfield Santa Anita Mall (2 hours, $50)
• The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (2.5 hours, $25)
• Din Tai Fung (1.5 hours, $20)
• Total Estimated Costs: $140

Transportation

Transportation options in Arcadia are relatively limited, and visitors are advised to use a rental car for ease of travel. However, ride-share apps, such as Uber and Lyft, can be utilized to get from one location to the next.

If you use a rental car, you should expect to spend approximately $50 for a one-day rental, including gas. If you choose to use ride-share apps, you can expect to spend around $30 to $40 for the day, depending on the number of locations visited.

Useful Tips

If you have more time to spend in Arcadia, you should consider adding a visit to the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation’s Blacker House, a historical jewel that showcases early 20th century architecture, or the Arcadia Wilderness Park, where you can hike and picnic while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

If you have less time, consider prioritizing The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, which offer a range of experiences in one location.