Glendale is a sun-drenched city set between the San Fernando Valley and the Verdugo Mountains. Visit a museum dedicated to neon art and explore the lively downtown district filled with cafes, bars and restaurants. There are plenty of green spaces to discover, including Griffith Park and a wilderness area set in the San Gabriel Mountains.
Things to do in Glendale
Downtown Glendale offers all the excitement you’d expect from a Los Angeles neighbourhood. Dine at trendy restaurants and enjoy a night of culture at the historic Alex Theatre. The handsome Art Deco venue was built in the 1920s and hosts drama and musical theatre performances, as well as concerts and film screenings.
Discover the history of electric media at the Museum of Neon Art. The museum showcases an electrifying collection of neon art, including signage from the iconic Grauman's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. Pair your visit with a hands-on glass bending class at the on-site art studio.
Glendale borders Griffith Park, where you’ll find famous landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and the public observatory. Hiking trails wind through the park and are a great way to escape the LA crowds. The Hollyridge Trail is one of the most popular routes and treats you to fantastic views over the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
You can get off-the-grid in Deukmejian Wilderness Park, which is set in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and is a hidden gem. Trails take you into the park and through sections of sage scrubland and spruce woodland., while a historic stone barn within the park has been repurposed as an interactive nature centre. Hike up to the scenic lookouts for sweeping views over the Crescenta Valley.
Getting around Glendale
Rental cars are an easy and flexible way to get around Glendale and explore sights and attractions around Los Angeles. Trains run between Glendale and Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles in 20 minutes. Los Angeles International Airport is a 45-minute drive away.