Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Monrovia is a historic city in Los Angeles County. It was originally inhabited by the Tongva people before the arrival of Spanish missionaries in the 18th century. The town of Monrovia was officially incorporated in 1887 and later became home to the McDonald family behind the famed fast-food chain.
Things to do in Monrovia
Occupying a former swimming pool building is the Monrovia Historical Museum, which explores the people, events and industries that have shaped the city. Learn about the influential Monroe Family and explore life in Monrovia during the early 20th century in the recreated kitchen. Also on display are vintage telephones, cameras and firefighting equipment.
Monrovia makes an excellent base for visiting the Los Angeles County Arboretum, which is located adjacent to the horse racing track of Santa Anita Park. It showcases floral species from the Mediterranean, South Africa and South America, as well as native oaks, palms and bamboo. Coincide your visit with one of the summer concerts featuring the Pasadena Symphony or simply relax on the bird-filled shores of Baldwin Lake. Also within the arboretum is the 1890-built Santa Fe Railway Depot.
On the northern edge of the city is Monrovia Canyon Park, which is home to a picturesque cascade that can be accessed along a short walking trail. For a longer hike, you can explore one of the 65 kilometres of trails that wind through Big Santa Anita Canyon, home to the 15-metre-high Sturtevant Falls.
Getting around Monrovia
Monrovia is around 40 minutes’ drive from the centre of Los Angeles and 1.5 hours from Los Angeles International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Trams travelling along the Gold Line stop at Monrovia Station and buses travel throughout the city.