Discover Arcadia: History, Gardens and Equestrian Sports

Arcadia combines historical insights, well-tended gardens and the unique world of equestrian sports. Those planning a trip with varied interests will find opportunities here to explore culture, nature, sports and regional cuisine. When choosing a vacation rental in Arcadia, you can therefore first consider which of these experiences should be the focus of your trip.

History in the Museum and on the Streets

The permanent exhibition at the Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage presents a chronology of Arcadia’s history. Its focus is on Arcadia’s early residents, Mission San Gabriel and the owners of the Santa Anita Ranch. Thematic history sections also cover Santa Anita Park, the World War I Balloon School and the Santa Anita Japanese Assembly Center.

Another way to explore the area’s history is the Thoroughbred Racing Walk of Champions. Information panels introduce historic jockeys, horses, trainers, owners and other important figures. Several “History Lives Here” markers in the downtown streets provide information about local historic sites. This allows you to discover history not only in an exhibition but also while exploring public spaces.

Gardens, Historic Buildings and the Landscape

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a 127-acre arboretum, botanical garden and historic site in the hills near the San Gabriel Mountains in Arcadia, California, USA. The arboretum includes the Heritage Rose Garden, the Aquatic Gardens and an orchid collection in the Tropical Green House. These different garden areas add a nature-oriented element to a trip while also offering specific themes for shared discoveries.

The arboretum’s historic buildings also shape the visitor experience. Highlights include the richly ornamented Queen Anne Cottage and the 19th-century Santa Anita Depot. If you would like to combine nature and culture, you can consider these gardens and historic landmarks as a focus of your travel plans.

Equestrian Sports and Active Experiences

Santa Anita Park is a thoroughbred racetrack in Arcadia. A special way to get to know the venue is the free guided Seabiscuit Tram Tour. It travels through the stable area, the official Receiving Barn and the Paddock Gardens, as well as past Seabiscuit’s original stable and stall.

For an active change of pace, the Arcadia Par 3 Golf Course is available. The 18-hole par-3 course is 1,947 yards long. The course and its practice facility are illuminated and open for extended playing hours until late at night. This makes it possible to combine cultural sightseeing, garden exploration and an active outing at different travel paces.

Regional Flavors and the Right Accommodation

Taste of Arcadia takes place every September at Santa Anita Park. The event celebrates local restaurants and the best flavors of the San Gabriel Valley. If this culinary event fits your travel dates, you can combine it with Arcadia’s historical and scenic attractions. Outside this event, regional cuisine remains a reason in its own right to get to know the city and its surroundings better.

Accommodation in Arcadia should suit your desired travel profile: Focus on the museum and local history, the gardens and historic buildings, equestrian sports or a culinary-oriented stay. This allows you to make a more deliberate choice of vacation rental without limiting your trip to just one type of experience.

More Places for Your Travel Plans

For further searches, you can also view Cudahy, South Gate, Huntington Park, Santa Clarita, Lynwood, Avalon, Artesia and Hidden Hills.

To the overarching travel overview: Los Angeles.