Things to do in Altadena

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Visit Altadena

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Altadena travel guide

The hike to Eaton Canyon Falls takes you a nice year-round waterfall in Southern California.#TakeAHike

Eaton Canyon Bridge to the falls. Nice and refreshing hike....

Professor Lowe had a dream to make the beautiful Mountains overlooking the cities of Altadena / Pasadena accessible to average citizens. After much planning, many exploratory trips on horseback, he and Engineer Thomas McPherson located a series of routes that could be built upon with a series of rail cars to reach miles back into the forest and eventually all the way to the top of Mount Wilson. Financing the project himself, Professor Lowe proceeded to build his dream which eventually reached all the way to the base of Mount Lowe (named after Professor Lowe, previously known as Oak Mountain). At its peak, it was the top honeymoon destination in America. Beginning with the famous red car lines in California, Professor Lowe extended the line up through the rolling hills in Rubio Canyon where a small hotel was built at the base of new incline rail systems that would take a visitor up a mile along a ridge overlooking the LA Basin to the top of Echo Mountain.

The top of Echo Mountain became a little city of its own with places to eat, order picnic lunches, shop at stores, dormitories for employees, power generating station to power Echo Mountain facilities. There was also a trolley repair building and pit, observation decks at various spots, trails that could be taken by hikers both up and down the mountain and into the Alpine regions, tennis courts, stables and a now little known zoo. The entire assembly of buildings were painted white and because of the view from far below, became known as "The White City in the sky". The “opera box” great incline cars were also white and could be seen from afar ferrying up and down the hill. On a ridge behind the Echo Mountain ridge was an observatory building with a working 16 inch telescope housed in a round domed building. The foundations can still be found at the site as well as the cement stand which is what the telescope was mounted upon. It was Professor Lowe's intention to build the rail system all the way to the top of Mount Wilson along with additional hotels and facilities on the top of Mount Wilson. Later, much of the path of the large 100" telescope and observatory built on Mount Wilson was used to transport the delicate 100" mirror to the top of Mount Wilson.
[From Wikipedia]

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What to do in Altadena

Popular places to visit

Universal Studios which includes rides, signage and a fountain

Universal Studios Hollywood

Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood experience!

Staples Center featuring signage, shopping and a statue or sculpture

Crypto.com Arena

This multipurpose sports arena has hosted some of the world’s biggest musical acts and is home to two National Basketball Association teams.

Los Angeles Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in Los Angeles Convention Center, a top convention centre in Los Angeles. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and great live music in this vibrant area.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Enjoy the excitement at Six Flags Magic Mountain and find out why this is a popular theme park in Stevenson Ranch. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Entering Los Angeles terminal Island via cruise ship, USA.

Long Beach Cruise Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Long Beach with a trip to Long Beach Cruise Terminal. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.

University of Southern California

Enjoy the student vibe with a visit to University of Southern California, a top university in Los Angeles. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Santa Monica Beach

Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.

Dodger Stadium

Catch an event at Dodger Stadium during your trip to Los Angeles. Experience the entertainment choices and great live music in this vibrant area.

Venice Beach

Bronze your body and rub shoulders with body builders and wacky performers at Los Angeles’ quirky urban shoreline, a colorful escape from the city.

Pasadena

La Canada Flintridge

Los Angeles

Frequently asked questions

Is Altadena worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in Altadena is visit Norton Simon Museum. Tick this major attraction off your itinerary, then discover more of the area's nature and hiking.

How do I spend a day in Altadena?

Kidspace Childrens Museum and Museum of the American West are two awesome places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Altadena while you're there too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Altadena?

Don't go home without visiting Norton Simon Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Altadena.

Is three days enough to stay in Altadena?

Three days will be enough time to check out some popular city attractions, including Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena Playhouse and Kidspace Childrens Museum. The average stay in Altadena is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Los Angeles isn't far away.

Is Altadena a walkable city?

With vibrant neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Altadena is a great place to visit on foot. Have fun wandering between Kidspace Childrens Museum and Pacific Asia Museum. Then take a stroll around North Central, located 3 kilometres from the centre, and North Arroyo, which is about 5 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Altadena with kids?

If you are after tours and attractions for all the family, check out these terrific ideas for what to do in Altadena with kids.

What to do in Altadena for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Altadena for adults including 39 Raymond and Glendale Federal Savings Building.

Are there free things to do in Altadena?

In Altadena, Colorado Street Bridge is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Altadena.