Things To Do
in Altadena
Altadena is a charming community located in Los Angeles County, United States. It is known for its picturesque neighborhoods nestled against the San Gabriel Mountains, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational opportunities. The area is home to beautiful historic houses and tree-lined streets, giving it a tranquil and idyllic atmosphere.
Altadena also boasts a diverse population and a close-knit community feel.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $120 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the Eaton Canyon Natural Area, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Don't forget to bring your camera for stunning views of the waterfall.
After your hike, head to the Altadena Farmer's Market to sample local produce and artisanal goods. Grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes offering delicious lunch options.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Altadena Community Garden. Finish your day with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.
Start your morning with a visit to the nearby Griffith Park for a scenic hike. Enjoy the tranquility and fresh air as you breathe in the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Visit the Griffith Observatory for an afternoon of astronomy and fun exhibits. Learn about the stars and planets before heading to a local café for a quick lunch.
Spend your evening stargazing with friends at the observatory. Pack a picnic dinner and enjoy the night sky as you bond over the wonders above.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings including nearby mountains and parks.
- Strong sense of community with local events and activities.
- Rich cultural history and diverse population.
- Proximity to Pasadena and Los Angeles for additional amenities and opportunities.
- Generally safe neighborhood with low crime rates.
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Potential for wildfires in nearby mountainous areas.
- Some parts may have older infrastructure and housing.
Best Activities in Altadena
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Altadena is surrounded by the San Gabriel Mountains, offering numerous hiking trails with beautiful views and diverse terrain.
Chantry Flat is a popular camping destination with access to scenic trails, waterfalls, and peaceful natural surroundings.
Rock climbing enthusiasts can enjoy the challenges of Echo Cliffs, a well-known rock climbing area in the Altadena area.
Millard Canyon's trails and rugged terrain provide an exciting and challenging experience for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Altadena with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Altadena
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains and opportunities for capturing the beauty of the natural landscape.
Provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, with photo opportunities at the Echo Mountain ruins.
Offers scenic vistas of Altadena and the Los Angeles area, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Altadena
Altadena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A refreshing and tangy beverage made from locally grown lemons, perfect for quenching thirst on warm days. Found at farmers' markets and local cafes.
Must-Try!
Tacos filled with succulent garlic-infused shrimp, a popular local favorite known for its bold flavors. Enjoyed at food trucks and Mexican eateries.
Creamy, floral-infused ice cream that highlights the region's lavender farms and honey producers. Available at artisanal creameries and dessert shops.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Altadena better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market showcasing fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. Visitors can sample local delicacies and interact with passionate food vendors.
A recurring event where diverse food trucks converge, offering an assortment of international cuisines and inventive street food creations, providing a delightful culinary experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Altadena, it's important to be mindful of people's personal space and to avoid standing too close or touching others without permission.
Punctuality is valued in Altadena, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Altadena is a diverse community, so it's important to show respect for people of different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Altadena with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Altadena
Ensure a smooth experience
In Altadena, tipping is a common practice in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and cafes. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill for good service. Tipping for other services such as haircuts, taxis, and hotel staff is also common.
Payment in Altadena is mostly done using cash, credit or debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, and cash is also widely used. Mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay are gaining popularity as convenient payment methods.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Altadena.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and clear skies make spring a great time to visit Altadena. Hiking and outdoor activities are popular during this season.
Warm and sunny weather with longer days, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the nearby mountain trails and parks.
Cooler temperatures, beautiful autumn foliage, and a great time for hiking and enjoying the scenic landscapes.
Cool and occasionally wet weather, but still a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching, with fewer crowds.
Altadena at Night
Hiking in Altadena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike with beautiful views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Los Angeles Basin, featuring various trails that explore the area's natural beauty.
A popular hiking trail offering a challenging ascent to the ruins of the old Echo Mountain House, with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A historic trail that follows the remnants of the Mt. Lowe Railway, providing hikers with unique scenery and historical context alongside stunning views.
This scenic trail runs along the banks of the Arroyo Seco River, leading through picturesque forests and offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Starting from the base of Mt. Wilson, this trail takes hikers up to the Mt. Lowe area, offering gorgeous vistas and diverse plant life along the route.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Altadena through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Altadena by plane.
The primary airport serving Los Angeles and the surrounding metropolitan area, located about 30 miles southwest of Altadena.
Officially known as Hollywood Burbank Airport, located approximately 12 miles northwest of Altadena, serving the northern parts of Los Angeles.
Located about 25 miles to the south of Altadena, this airport provides primarily domestic flights and is known for its ease of access.
Situated about 35 miles east of Altadena, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 45 miles southeast of Altadena, this airport primarily serves the Orange County area and offers several international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Altadena, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A substantial demographic group, representing a significant percentage of the community.
A prominent demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity of Altadena.
Includes various sub-groups like Chinese, Filipino, and Indian populations.
Reflects the increasing trend of multi-racial identities within the community.
A smaller demographic group with historical roots in the region.
Represents a minority group within the overall population of Altadena.
The Soul of Altadena
Discover the essence of Altadena through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Altadena, with numerous local parks and schools offering courts for recreational and competitive play.
Soccer has a strong following in Altadena, with youth leagues and adult clubs actively participating in the sport.
Baseball is traditionally favored in Altadena, with community leagues and local parks hosting games for all ages.
Running is a prevalent activity in Altadena, thanks to its scenic trails and parks that provide a great environment for jogging and running events.
Tennis is enjoyed by many residents in Altadena, with several public courts available for both casual and competitive play.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Altadena, with various cycling routes that offer both scenic views and challenging rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Altadena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Altadena's eateries feature an array of plant-based dishes, ensuring vegetarians and vegans have plentiful choices, from hearty salads to flavorful meatless entrees.
Several establishments in Altadena provide gluten-free alternatives, from pastas and pizzas to decadent desserts, guaranteeing individuals with gluten sensitivities can dine with ease.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Altadena with these cultural adventures.
