Arcadia Day Trip Los Angeles Arboretum

Arcadia is located at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, north of downtown Los Angeles and conveniently accessible via California Interstate 210. There are numerous local attractions worth visiting and some exceptional local establishments.

Los Angeles County Arboretum

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden feature sweeping lawns with peacocks that roam free. Cactus gardens, hothouses filled with orchids, ponds with sunbathing turtles, and Asian gardens. This 127-acre historical site also serves as the summertime home of the California Philharmonic Concerts on the Green.

Queen Anne Cottage

You will be surprised at how extensive these gardens are as you stroll through the many different areas, including historic buildings such as the Queen Anne Cottage, Santa Anita Train Depot, Coach Barn, and Lucky Baldwin’s original residence.

Baldwin Lagoon

In the middle of the Arboretum sits the four-acre Baldwin lagoon, a Hollywood favorite used in dozens of films, from the original Tarzan television series to the blockbuster hit “Meet the Fockers.” The Los Angeles County Arboretum can be found at 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia. Website.

Santa Anita Park Racetrack

For those who enjoy sports, the renowned Santa Anita Park racetrack is a must-visit destination. This stunning venue boasts a picturesque backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains. The racetrack is complete with history, and you begin to get that feeling from the moment you enter the gates and are greeted by a life-sized bronzed statue of Seabiscuit surrounded by timeless architecture.

Santa Anita, which opened in 1934, is considered Southern California’s oldest racetrack. It hosts several esteemed races, such as the Santa Anita Derby and the Santa Anita Handicap.

Historic Derby Restaurant Arcadia

If you are in the mood for a delectable meal with the ambiance of mid-century Los Angeles, you will want to cap off your day by dining at the historic Derby restaurant. Patrons can enjoy the bacon-wrapped filet mignon — the steak that made the Derby famous.

Initially purchased in 1938 by Canadian-born thoroughbred racehorse jockey George Woolf, the Derby serves food that delights customers, all while preserving an ambiance made great by its connection to the sport of kings.

Diners are surrounded with memorabilia of prestigious races and horses, including a collection of memorabilia from champion thoroughbred racehorse Seabiscuit, who Woolf rode to victory against the heavily favored War Admiral in the Pimlico Special that year. 233 E Huntington Driver.

Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage

The Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage is the city’s premier cultural site and is a great place to begin your visit. The museum features artifacts from Elias “Lucky” Baldwin and Anita Baldwin, the Santa Anita Racetrack, the World War I Balloon School, photographs, and various civic artifacts from the 1800s to the present day. 380 W Huntington Dr, Arcadia, California. Website.

Fun Los Angeles Area Day Trips

Crystal Cove Cottages

Southern California Gardens