Things to Do in the San Gabriel Valley 2026

Start with a visit to The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino. This world-renowned destination features gorgeous botanical gardens, rare books, art collections, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in California. It’s the perfect place to spend an entire afternoon exploring and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

No SGV bucket list would be complete without experiencing the authentic Asian cuisine housed in this area. The San Gabriel Valley has earned an international reputation for traditional Chinese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, and other Asian cuisines.  Just by driving by local cities such as Arcadia, Temple City, Alhambra & Monterey Park, you are bound to find a wide variety food to try.  

For anyone who enjoys nature and scenic views, the Los Angeles County Arboretum in Arcadia is a must do. Known for its historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and iconic peacocks, the Arboretum provides a relaxing escape from suburban life while embracing the area’s natural beauty and history.

For anyone who likes thrills, the Bridge to Nowhere hike in Azusa is one of the most iconic outdoor experiences in Socal. The trail follows the East Fork of the San Gabriel River through scenic canyons before arriving at a massive abandoned bridge hidden deep within the mountains.

For a dive into the rich history of the SGV, visit Mission San Gabriel Arcángel, one of California’s oldest missions and the landmark from which the San Gabriel Valley gets its name. The mission offers a fascinating look into the region’s early history and remains one of the area’s most important cultural sites.  It’s a great opportunity to learn the rich history behind how the SGV was first founded and how the native ancestors used to live.  

If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, spend some time at Lacy Park in San Marino. This beautifully maintained park features walking paths, mature trees, open green spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it one of the most beloved parks in the SGV.

Another must-do experience is taking a scenic drive along Angeles Crest Highway. Just minutes from many SGV communities, this mountain road offers breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Mountains, access to hiking trails, and some of the best overlooks in Los Angeles County.  If you’re lucky, there have been rare occurances of Northern Lights that can be seen on this highway.  

The San Gabriel Valley is also home to some of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside of Asia. Events held in Monterey Park and San Gabriel attract visitors from across Southern California to showcase the rich cultural diversity that defines the region through food, entertainment, and community celebrations.

Outdoor enjoyers should also visit Eaton Canyon, located near Pasadena and Altadena, although it may not be the same after the recent fires. Famous for its hiking trails and waterfall, Eaton Canyon is a great place to enjoy the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains while taking in beautiful views and local wildlife.

Finally, spend a day exploring Old Town Monrovia. Centered around Myrtle Avenue, this charming historic district features local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and community events that make it one of the most walkable and vibrant downtown areas in the San Gabriel Valley.  Every Friday there is also a farmers market on the main street that is slowly becoming one of the best farmers markets in the entire SGV!