Best Places to Visit on a Trip from Carson to Azusa

Looking for some fun and exciting places to visit between Carson and Azusa, California? Look no further! Here are the top five destinations to check out along the way.

Halfway Point: Downey, CA

As you begin your journey from Carson to Azusa, Downey is the perfect halfway point to stop and stretch your legs. Downey offers a range of activities, including museums, parks, and dining options. For a history lesson, check out the Columbia Memorial Space Center. This interactive center features exhibits and workshops celebrating the space shuttle program. If you're in the mood for a walk, visit Apollo Park, where you can stroll around the lake or play a game of baseball. Lastly, for a delicious meal, stop by Porto's Bakery and Cafe for Cuban-inspired pastries and sandwiches.

1. Cerritos Sculpture Garden

Your first destination after leaving Downey is the Cerritos Sculpture Garden*.* This hidden gem features over 50 sculptures by artists from across the country. The garden is open from dawn to dusk and is free to the public. As you wander through the garden, you'll come across sculptures made from a variety of materials, from bronze to granite. It's the perfect place to snap some pictures and enjoy some fresh air.

2. Peck Road Water Conservation Park

Next stop: Peck Road Water Conservation Park*. *This nature reserve is perfect for anyone looking to spend some time in the great outdoors. The park offers a range of activities, from birdwatching to hiking to fishing. Take a stroll around the lake, and you'll find ducks, geese, and even turtles. The park also features a fishery stocked with rainbow trout and catfish. Don't forget to bring your rod and reel!

3. Craftsman Village Historic District

If you're a fan of historic architecture, you won't want to miss Craftsman Village Historic District. This neighborhood in Pasadena features homes built in the Craftsman style, a popular architectural movement from the early 1900s. Take a walk down the tree-lined streets and marvel at the beautifully designed homes. The district is especially lovely in the fall, when the leaves on the trees change color.

4. Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, literature, or nature. This world-renowned institution features a collection of rare books, including a Gutenberg Bible and a manuscript of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. The art museum showcases American and European art from the 17th to the 20th centuries. And the botanical gardens are simply breathtaking, featuring over a dozen themed gardens and a conservatory filled with tropical plants. You could easily spend an entire day here!

5. Aztec Hotel

Your final destination is the Aztec Hotel, a historic landmark located on Route 66 in Monrovia. This iconic hotel was built in 1925 and features a unique Mayan Revival architectural style. The hotel's exterior is decorated with intricate carvings and statues, while the interior features colorful tiles and murals. It's a beautiful place to take a stroll and snap some pictures. Plus, if you're looking for a bite to eat, the hotel's restaurant, The Mayan, serves up delicious Mexican cuisine.

Whether you're interested in art, history, or nature, there's something for everyone on this trip from Carson to Azusa. So pack your bags and hit the road!

Note from the author: While these destinations are currently open to visitors, please be sure to check each location's website for pandemic-related updates and safety guidelines.