One Day in Arcadia

It's called "The City of Homes" and they do have some massive contenders. Pretty much a quiet, tree-lined residential area, the city of Arcadia makes a great quiet base to explore the sights of the San Gabriel Valley, Pasadena, and Los Angeles. It has a great place in history as the home of "Lucky" Baldwin, whose Rancho Santa Anita spawned the famous Santa Anita Racetrack and the city itself. A day at the races can be the start of an especially good time.

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Doubletree Hotel Monrovia - Pasadena
There are a number of great hotel options along the border of Arcadia and neighboring Monrovia at the intersection of 2nd Avenue and Huntington Drive. This would be my pick for the newly renovated, plush guestrooms, the fabulous pool area and bar, and those great Doubletree cookies! Adjacent to over a dozen restaurants ranging from d... More >
There are a number of great hotel options along the border of Arcadia and neighboring Monrovia at the intersection of 2nd Avenue and Huntington Drive. This would be my pick for the newly renovated, plush guestrooms, the fabulous pool area and bar, and those great Doubletree cookies! Adjacent to over a dozen restaurants ranging from decent to great. From around $100 per night.
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Santa Anita Race Track Los Angeles Turf Club Inc
Come play the ponies at one of the country's premiere horse tracks. This is a gorgeous facility with gardens, fountains, and plenty of places to relax between races. The racing season runs from the day after Christmas through mid-April. Off-track betting year round. If it's a sunny day, spread a picnic blanket on the infield. The Club ... More >
Come play the ponies at one of the country's premiere horse tracks. This is a gorgeous facility with gardens, fountains, and plenty of places to relax between races. The racing season runs from the day after Christmas through mid-April. Off-track betting year round. If it's a sunny day, spread a picnic blanket on the infield. The Club House level makes a nice upgrade from the general admission area for an extra $3.50.
This would be my pick for the newly renovated, plush guestrooms, the fabulous pool area and bar, and those great Doubletree cookies!
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Westfield Santa Anita
Did you have some luck at the races? Take your winnings next door to this popular mall anchored by Macy's, J.C. Penney, and Nordstroms and find all kinds of shops to spend your money in. Entertainment options include the very nice AMC Theatre and Dave 'n Busters. Free.
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Derby
When you want to splurge on a top-notch steak dinner, this is the place to come. It's not cheap, dinners start in the mid $30's and go up, but it's a classic, leather boothed, professional steak house. It's also historic...it was founded by jockey George Woolf who rode a little nag named Seabiscuit back in the day. Check out their museum quality racing displays.
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Monrovia Chamber of Commerce
Just east of Arcadia is the lovely, undiscovered city of Monrovia. Head north on Myrtle Avenue from Huntington Drive and spend some time soaking up the atmosphere of Old Town. You've probably seen this street before...it is a very popular filming location for Hollywood whenever they need a stand in for "small town America." If you'r... More >
Just east of Arcadia is the lovely, undiscovered city of Monrovia. Head north on Myrtle Avenue from Huntington Drive and spend some time soaking up the atmosphere of Old Town. You've probably seen this street before...it is a very popular filming location for Hollywood whenever they need a stand in for "small town America." If you're hungry, a variety of food awaits you: Greek, Lebanese, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, French, Cuban, Californian, and...yes...American. All along this three-block stretch from Olive Avenue to Foothill Bl. Free.
The racing season runs from the day after Christmas through mid-April.
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Rudy's Mexican Food
If you've lost more than you won at the races but still want a good, sit down dinner, then head over to Rudy's on the corner of Myrtle and Colorado Bl. in Old Town Monrovia. Delicious Mexican cuisine prepared by the Castrellon family. The Rudy's margarita is a local legend...try one! You can eat here starting at less than $5. More
If you've lost more than you won at the races but still want a good, sit down dinner, then head over to Rudy's on the corner of Myrtle and Colorado Bl. in Old Town Monrovia. Delicious Mexican cuisine prepared by the Castrellon family. The Rudy's margarita is a local legend...try one! You can eat here starting at less than $5.
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About the Author

Darryl Musick
Darryl Musick
I produce a travel blog with my son, Tim, who uses a wheelchair. You can see our adventures at http://wheelstraveler.blogspot.com and you can send us a message at dmusick61-at-gmail.com
Websitefacebook.com/darryl.musick
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