5 Things To Do In Glendale, California
If you find yourself in Southern California, consider stopping by Glendale for an unforgettable experience. Glendale, California, a vibrant city nestled in the eastern end of the San Fernando Valley, offers an intriguing mix of culture, nature, and entertainment. Here are the top five places you must visit:
The Americana at Brand
A visit to Glendale would be incomplete without stopping at The Americana at Brand. This upscale, outdoor shopping center artfully combines retail therapy, dining, and entertainment. Luxurious landscaping adds a breath of fresh air to your shopping experience. Boasting top-notch brand stores such as Tiffany & Co., David Yurman, and Nordstrom, it presents the perfect opportunity to bring home a little something special.
But The Americana is not just about shopping. Global cuisine is right at your doorstep with the multitude of restaurants and cafés to choose from. Whether you crave some artisanal pizza, sushi, or a classic burger, there is something for everyone. The dancing water fountains, which come alive to music every hour, are another treat for the visitors. And with a movie theater and year-round events, the entertainment is endless.
Glendale Galleria
Adjacent to The Americana is the Glendale Galleria, one of the largest shopping centers in America. This three-story shopping complex has everything you need, from clothing to electronics, under one roof.
With over 200 stores, including Macy’s, Target, and Apple, the Galleria caters to a broad range of shopping needs. The numerous eateries interspersed amidst the shops guarantee you’ll never have to shop on an empty stomach. After a long day of shopping, you can also relax at the Galleria’s movie theater, turning your shopping spree into a complete day out.
Museum of Neon Art
After exploring Glendale’s shopping hubs, shift gears and step into an electric oasis at the Museum of Neon Art (MONA). As the only museum in the world dedicated solely to neon and electrical art, MONA is a true gem in Glendale.
The museum’s permanent collection is a mesmerizing showcase of neon signs, artworks, and kinetic art. Ever-changing exhibits add to the excitement, ensuring every visit is distinct. MONA is an ideal place for art enthusiasts and those looking for an out-of-ordinary experience. Here, in the glow of neon lights, you will embark on a visual journey that challenges your creativity and imagination.
Deukmejian Wilderness Park
For nature enthusiasts, Deukmejian Wilderness Park offers a break from urban life. This 700-acre park in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains is a favorite hiking and picnic spot among locals and visitors alike. Expect to find trails of varying difficulty, native plant species, and wildlife. If you’re lucky, you’ll see a mountain lion or a California black bear.
However, there’s more to Deukmejian beyond the trails and wildlife. The park, named after Governor George Deukmejian, is home to an expansive vineyard and a barn complex. The park’s natural beauty isn’t just outdoors, though. The historical Le Mesnager Stone Barn serves as an interpretative center, providing insights into the area’s rich history and ecology.
Alex Theatre
Your Glendale experience would not be complete without a visit to the iconic Alex Theatre. Since its opening in 1925, this theatre has held its place as the heart of performing arts in Glendale.
While the theatre’s Spanish Colonial Revival style façade is a sight to behold, its interior is just as stunning. The 1,400-seat venue hosts more than 250 events a year, including ballet, concerts, films, and comedian performances. Visiting the Alex Theatre, you can be part of the city’s vibrant arts scene and its rich heritage, rounding off a memorable time in Glendale.
To wrap things up, Glendale, California, offers a unique blend of shopping, art, nature, and entertainment. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or a history buff, there’s something in this engaging city for you. So, pack your bags and head to Glendale for your next adventure.