Glendale, California: A Jewel of the Verdugo Mountains

Main Attractions in Glendale

1. The Americana at Brand:

The Americana at Brand is Glendale’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. This outdoor shopping center features luxury boutiques, popular retail stores, and a variety of restaurants. The ambiance, complete with a large central fountain, beautifully landscaped gardens, and trolley rides, makes it a perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening.

2. Forest Lawn Memorial Park:

A serene and historic cemetery, Forest Lawn Memorial Park is not only a resting place for many famous individuals but also an art-filled park with a collection of sculptures, stunning architecture, and peaceful gardens. Its Museum of Art features impressive art collections, and the Hall of the Crucifixion-Resurrection is home to one of the largest religious paintings in the world.

3. Brand Park and Brand Library & Art Center:

Brand Park is a beautiful 31-acre park offering hiking trails, playgrounds, and scenic views of Glendale. It’s also home to the Brand Library & Art Center, a cultural gem housed in a historic mansion. The library offers a vast collection of art and music resources, while the art center hosts rotating exhibitions and events, making it a great spot for both outdoor recreation and cultural enrichment.

4. Museum of Neon Art (MONA):

The Museum of Neon Art, or MONA, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing neon signs, kinetic art, and other forms of electric media. It’s a unique museum that offers both educational and visually stunning exhibits, including tours of neon lights in the surrounding areas.

5. Verdugo Mountains and Hiking Trails:

The Verdugo Mountains offer a range of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The Verdugo Peak hike, in particular, provides panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin, Downtown LA, and on clear days, even Catalina Island. These trails are ideal for hikers of all levels looking to enjoy nature close to the city.

Places to Visit and Activities to Do in Glendale

1. Glendale Galleria:

The Glendale Galleria is one of the largest shopping malls in the region, featuring hundreds of stores, including major retailers and popular brands. It’s a go-to spot for locals and visitors looking to shop, dine, and explore a wide array of products and services in a single location.

2. Alex Theatre:

The historic Alex Theatre is a landmark in Glendale. Built in 1925, it has hosted performances ranging from vaudeville to live concerts, plays, and film screenings. Its stunning art deco design and neon-lit tower make it a standout venue for cultural events.

3. Hiking in Deukmejian Wilderness Park:

For nature lovers, Deukmejian Wilderness Park offers a perfect retreat from the city. This park features rugged hiking trails that wind through the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, providing beautiful views of the natural landscape and a great opportunity for outdoor recreation.

4. Explore Adams Square Mini Park:

A small yet charming park, Adams Square Mini Park is home to the restored Adams Square Gas Station, a quirky art deco landmark. The park offers a peaceful spot to relax, and the gas station often hosts art exhibits, adding a creative flair to the space.

5. Glendale Central Park:

Located in the heart of downtown, Glendale Central Park is a lively green space perfect for relaxation, picnics, or taking a stroll. The park is adjacent to the Glendale Central Library and the Americana at Brand, making it a convenient stop during a day of shopping and exploring.

Restaurants & Cafes in Glendale

1. Porto’s Bakery & Cafe:

A Glendale staple, Porto’s Bakery & Cafe is a family-owned Cuban bakery known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and savory items like potato balls and sandwiches. The lines are often long, but the food is well worth the wait, making it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.

2. Din Tai Fung:

Din Tai Fung is a popular Taiwanese restaurant located in the Americana at Brand, known for its world-famous soup dumplings and traditional Chinese dishes. With a chic, modern interior and exceptional service, it’s a great place to experience authentic Asian cuisine.

3. Carousel Restaurant:

For Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, Carousel Restaurant is a Glendale favorite. The restaurant offers a wide array of Lebanese dishes, including grilled kebabs, hummus, and flavorful salads. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and live entertainment on select nights, it’s a great spot for a lively dinner.

4. Eggslut:

Located in the Glendale Galleria, Eggslut is a trendy breakfast and brunch spot known for its gourmet egg sandwiches and innovative takes on classic breakfast fare. With a casual yet stylish vibe, it’s perfect for a quick, delicious meal.

5. Muddy Paw Coffee:

A unique café with a cause, Muddy Paw Coffee donates a portion of its profits to local animal rescue organizations. The café offers a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and a cozy atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and support a good cause.

Bars & Pubs in Glendale

1. The Famous:

The Famous is a classic cocktail bar offering a mix of handcrafted drinks, a cozy ambiance, and friendly bartenders. Known for its vintage style and strong cocktails, it’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

2. Mr. Furley’s Bar:

With a laid-back atmosphere, Mr. Furley’s Bar is a popular spot for casual drinks and socializing. It features a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and pub fare, along with games like pool and shuffleboard, making it a great hangout for locals.

3. Tavern on Brand:

A lively bar in the heart of downtown Glendale, Tavern on Brand offers a mix of craft beers, signature cocktails, and tasty bar bites. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying Glendale’s pleasant weather, and the bar’s casual vibe makes it a local favorite.

4. Dave’s on Broadway:

A dive bar with character, Dave’s on Broadway is known for its affordable drinks, live music, and friendly crowd. It’s a great spot for those looking for a low-key, unpretentious night out.

5. Elbow Room:

Elbow Room is a trendy yet unpretentious bar offering craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. With a speakeasy vibe and a selection of inventive drinks, it’s the perfect place for a night out with friends.

Glendale, California, offers a little bit of everything—rich history, outdoor adventures, world-class shopping, and a diverse food scene. Whether you’re hiking the Verdugo Mountains, enjoying a shopping spree at the Americana, or indulging in delicious pastries at Porto’s, Glendale provides a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment in the heart of Los Angeles County.