Arcadia

Located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, Arcadia is home to a pair of major Southern California attractions, including the world-famous Santa Anita Park and the lush Los Angeles County Arboretum. 

Arcadia’s story stretches back thousands of years, beginning with the Indigenous peoples who settled a village called Aleupkigna, meaning "place of many waters." Later, in 1903, Elias Jackson (Lucky) Baldwin, once Arcadia’s largest landowner, founded the modern city and became its first mayor. 

Located just seven miles east of Pasadena in Los Angeles County, Arcadia is also known for its vibrant culinary scene, tree-lined historic neighborhoods, and family-friendly outdoor spaces. 

World-Class Horse Racing at Santa Anita Park

You don’t have to be a horse racing fan to appreciate Santa Anita Park, widely regarded as the world’s most beautiful racetrack. A frequent filming location, the park is known for its Art Deco design and mountain views. It hosted the equestrian events for the 1984 Olympics and is set to do so again in 2028 at the Los Angeles Summer Olympics.

Prominently featured in the classic 2003 film Seabiscuit, Santa Anita has been a popular filming location for decades. Santa Anita’s homestretch feels made for the movies, with the infield’s twisting fan palms and the San Gabriels for a backdrop.

Start your day with breakfast at Clockers’ Corner, offering a front-row seat to the morning workouts, then enjoy lunch or dinner at Silks or Frontrunner, both with trackside views.

On the weekend, take the Seabiscuit Tram Tour, a behind-the-scenes experience that highlights historic spots like the saddling paddock and Seabiscuit’s barn. There’s more racing history downtown, where bronze plaques along the Arcadia Walk of Champions honor the sport’s human and equine legends.

Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Located on former ranch land once owned by Lucky Baldwin, the Los Angeles County Arboretum spans 127 acres of lush landscapes.

Explore themed gardens, including the heritage Rose Garden, the tranquil Aquatic Gardens, and a stunning collection of orchids in the Tropical Green House. Historical highlights include two famous structures—the ornate Queen Anne Cottage and 19th-century Santa Anita Depot. 

Take a 45-minute tram tour ($8) for an overview of the arboretum’s history and collections, or join a docent-led walking tour, included with admission.

Where to Eat and Drink in Arcadia

Arcadia is a hotspot for Asian cuisine. Don’t miss Din Tai Fung’s signature soup dumplings or Menya Hanabi’s mazesoba, an innovative type of brothless ramen. Lao Xi Noodle House earned Michelin recognition, thanks to its Shanxi Province–style noodle dishes. 

Opened in 1922 by jockey George Woolf, The Derby is a vintage steakhouse with a big following among the racing set. Another old-school favorite, Moffett’s Family Restaurant Chicken Pie Shoppe, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and serves more than 300 of its namesake savory pies every day. And pick up authentic ingredients imported from Italy or a classic sandwich at Claro’s Italian Market.

Events and Festivals in Arcadia

Inspired by the night markets of Asia and named for the local area code, the 626 Night Market fills Santa Anita Park with authentic street foods, art, and live music. During the holidays, Electric Mile transforms the racetrack into a dazzling drive-thru audio-visual spectacle with five million lights and 500 art installations. 

In September, the annual Taste of Arcadia, celebrates top local restaurants and the best flavors of the San Gabriel Valley at Santa Anita Park.

Explore Nearby Attractions

For more culture, nature, and family fun, Arcadia is a central location for further Los Angeles County discovery. Just minutes away, explore The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, along with upscale shopping and dining around Pasadena. 

Hikers and nature lovers can head to Angeles National Forest for scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views. About 15 miles west, Glendale is home to shopping at The Americana at Brand, plus authentic Middle Eastern food and its very own “Walk of Fame”—all close to Griffith Park.