Top Five Popular Attractions to See on a Trip between Chino and Pasadena, California
Are you planning a trip between Chino and Pasadena, California, and looking for some fun and adventurous places to stop along the way? Look no further! We've compiled a list of the top five popular attractions to see, ranging from natural wonders to historical sites, that are sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Halfway Point: Azusa, CA
Before we get started with the top five attractions, let's talk about the halfway point of this trip: Azusa, CA. Azusa is a small city located in the San Gabriel Valley, nestled between the San Gabriel Mountains and the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area. It's a great place to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy some outdoor activities.
Azusa has a rich history, with the first settlers arriving in the mid-1800s. There are several historic sites worth visiting, including the San Gabriel Valley Historical Society Museum and the A.K. Smiley Public Library. If you're looking for some outdoor fun, head to the Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, where you can go fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking.
Now that you've rested and recharged in Azusa, let's continue our journey with the top five popular attractions to see between Chino and Pasadena.
1. Mount Baldy
Mount Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. It stands at 10,064 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The peak is accessible by several hiking trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, so there's something for everyone.
If you're not up for hiking, you can take a scenic drive up Mount Baldy Road and enjoy the views from the comfort of your car. At the top, you'll find a visitor center, a restaurant, and a ski resort that is open during the winter months.
2. Claremont Village
Claremont Village is a charming downtown area located in the city of Claremont, just off the 210 freeway. It's a great place to stop and shop, with over 200 boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants. The village is also home to several museums and art galleries, including the Folk Music Center and the Ruth Chandler Williamson Gallery.
One of the highlights of Claremont Village is the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, which covers over 86 acres of land and showcases native Californian plants. It's a great place to stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty of the area.
3. Santa Anita Park
Santa Anita Park is a legendary horse racing track located in Arcadia, just off the 210 freeway. The track opened in 1934 and has hosted some of the most prestigious horse races in the world, including the Breeders' Cup and the Santa Anita Derby.
Even if you're not a horse racing fan, Santa Anita Park is worth a visit for its stunning Art Deco architecture and beautiful grounds. You can take a guided tour of the track and learn about its history, or simply enjoy a day at the races.
4. Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a world-renowned cultural institution located in San Marino, just off the 210 freeway. The property covers over 120 acres and features stunning gardens, art collections, and rare books and manuscripts.
You can spend hours exploring the different galleries and gardens, including the Japanese Garden, the Desert Garden, and the Rose Garden. The library also hosts regular exhibitions and events, so be sure to check the schedule before you go.
5. Old Town Pasadena
Last but not least, no trip to the area is complete without a visit to Old Town Pasadena. This historic district is located in downtown Pasadena and features over 200 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
One of the highlights of Old Town Pasadena is the Pasadena Playhouse, which is the official State Theater of California and has hosted some of the most iconic plays and musicals in history. The district is also home to several museums and art galleries, including the Norton Simon Museum and the Pacific Asia Museum.
Conclusion
Now that you've seen the top five popular attractions on the trip between Chino and Pasadena, it's time to hit the road! If you're looking for the best route, we recommend taking the 210 freeway, which offers stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains and easy access to all the attractions mentioned above.
We hope you enjoyed this list and that it inspires you to embark on your own adventure in Southern California. Happy travels!