14 Things to Do in Arcadia

Arcadia, California, offers incredible neighborhoods, excellent schools, and proximity to some of the best beaches in the state. With a commitment to the environment, the city is dedicated to preserving its green spaces, as evidenced by the lush landscaping and abundance of healthy trees surrounding the community.

There is plenty of fun to be had in Arcadia, with an excellent array of leisure and recreation activities for all ages. Explore some of our favorite things to do in this affluent, family-friendly locale, and see why so many people want to live in this extraordinary town.

Since 1934, Santa Anita Park’s race track has attracted horse racing enthusiasts with its captivating mountainous backdrop, stunning Art Deco-style architecture, and well-maintained course. Every year, the prestigious thoroughbred racetrack draws visitors from around the world for prominent races such as the Santa Anita Derby, Breeder's Cup World Championships, and the Santa Anita Handicap. Widely acclaimed as the most beautiful racetrack in the world, the first-class facilities are steeped in history, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and considered as one of the "shrines" of thoroughbred horse racing.

At the Queen Anne Cottage and Coach Barn in Arcadia, visitors will find two Victorian-style buildings perched on the banks of Baldwin Lake on the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden grounds. The cottage is listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places and dates back to 1885. The refurbished historical buildings house original treasures, such as black walnut doors, hearth tiles, marble fireplace mantels, and an encaustic tile mosaic used for the home's entryway. There is also a stained glass window depicting a portrait of Jennie Baldwin. The extravagant grounds surrounding the estate make an ideal spot for strolls and quiet afternoon picnics.

Established in 2012, the Arcadia Performing Arts Center stands as a beacon for creativity. The 40,000-square-foot state-of-the-art venue features first-rate live performances from concerts to ballets. Skilled teachers foster technical and artistic skills as their students learn from industry professionals and utilize cutting-edge equipment.

The Asian-themed 626 Night Market is a popular attraction that gathers thousands of visitors from May through September for a fun-filled street festival in Arcadia. Activities include an art walk, electric music performances, games, and non-stop entertainment. The delicious SoCal fusion fare options are one-of-a-kind and always Instagram-worthy.

The 127-acre Arboretum, established in 1947, is a scenic spot to take in educational exhibits, interesting wildlife specimens, and astounding gardens that reflect Southern California's distinct environment and climate. Cascading waterfalls, paved walking trails, peacocks roaming the grounds, and historical structures make for a delightful day of exploration.

The Angeles National Forest is a California Historical Landmark featuring 655,387 acres of terrain. Whether you are looking for hiking trails, waterfalls, mountain peaks, or breathtaking scenery, you will find it here at Arcadia's most popular spot for outdoor recreation. The Copper Canyon trail provides a challenging trek for experienced hikers, while beginners may prefer the easier terrain of the Eaton Canyon Falls hike.

This local park offers quiet meditation areas, playgrounds, bike trails, picnic shelters, splash pads, tennis courts, barbecue areas, baseball fields, and more. Many events are held at Arcadia Community Regional Park to promote active community engagement.

This 18-hole public golf course offers picturesque panoramic views of the majestic San Gabriel mountains, with fabulous playing conditions for any skill level. A well-stocked pro shop and venue center complement the exceptional facilities at the Santa Anita Golf Course in Arcadia.

The municipal 18-hole golf course is open year-round with affordable rates, which include a golf cart rental. The Arcadia Municipal Golf Course offers clinics and lessons for beginners, a well-lit driving range, a brand-new putting green with a bunker for sand practice, and banquet room rentals.

Since 1952, the private South Hills Country Club has offered superb golf and luxury amenities in an exquisite setting. Members can access an 18-hole championship golf course, a state-of-the-art practice facility, hard surface tennis courts, a full-size swimming pool, fine-dining areas, an event space, and more.

This world-famous restaurant has been serving mouth-watering cuisine since 1922. The Derby features an inviting ambiance, excellent service, a centennial three-course menu, and delectable dishes such as bacon-wrapped dates, chateaubriand flambeed tableside for two, and prime French cut ribeye.

Experience an unrivaled breakfast with refined international flavors in popular dishes, such as smoked salmon flatbread, a signature traditional Japanese breakfast, and Yuzu ricotta pancakes. Mélange offers a weekend brunch and high tea on the weekends, served in an inviting ambiance with outstanding service.

The Shops at Santa Anita is more than just a place to shop. The lively upscale mall features 132 stores emphasizing exclusive brands, an outdoor promenade with entertainment options, and 59 places to eat. Located next to the Santa Anita Racetrack, it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Dorana Jewelry is a family-owned-and-operated jewelry store in Arcadia that offers elegant designs, bridal collections, personalized services, and repair. At Dorano Jewelry, expect to find the finest quality jewelry at reasonable prices, with customized offerings to reflect your unique style.

With over 20 years of international real estate experience, Nicola Speranta has the knowledge and reputation to guide you in buying or selling Arcadia real estate. Led by Nicole, The Speranta Group is a trendsetter in the industry, winning numerous awards for their exceptional customer service and expertise.

Contact Nicola Speranta to learn more about things to do in Arcadia and discuss how you can make your real estate dreams a reality.