Altadena, whose name came from the Spanish word “alta” which means “upper” and “dena” from Pasadena, is an unincorporated area and a census-designated place located in Los Angeles County, California. The area exudes a homey country feel because it boasts of its few paved sidewalks and it has only a few apartment buildings and almost no condominiums. Altadena is also near the mountains that are open to trails. The area is economically mixed and serves as the melting pot of different cultures because it serves as a home to diverse races. Although Altadena is a part of the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area, it enjoys a rural country image which adds up to its appeal to tourists and local visitors.
The area has several interesting places that you may visit while spending your grand vacation. It is highly guaranteed that you will never get bored.
The Christmas Tree Lane stretches about 0.7 mile (1.1km) of Santa Rosa Avenue from Woodbury Road to Altadena Drive. Since the 1920s, this has been a holiday tourist attraction. It was included on the list of National Register of Historic Places in 1990 and also a famous California Historical Landmark.
Another tourist attraction is the Cobb Estate located on top of Lake Avenue which is a free botanical garden of the U.S. Forest Service. The Farnsworth Park which is also located on Lake Avenue is a huge county park that has picnic grounds, club house and play areas ideal for a family bonding activity.
Never miss out on your chance to visit Altadena’s Mariposa Village for a shopping spree! Another place to go to when you want an extravagant shopping moment is the South Lake Shopping district wherein you can find tons of good finds sold at very reasonable prices. The village also has a magnificent library that houses a huge collection of interesting books. If you are a performing arts enthusiast, make sure to make a visit to the Theater Americana and watch original plays or the Pasadena Playhouse for theater productions.
For a unique dining and entertainment experience, drop by the Old Pasadena and you will fall in love with the place. Also a must-visit is the Norton Simon Museum which displays artworks and crafts that will feed the eyes of art lovers visiting the area.
Now, if you love the outdoors and you would like to have an unforgettable bonding with Mother Nature, Altadena definitely have several places to offer! First on the list is the Descanso Gardens which allow you to enjoy great leisurely walks while discovering native plants. For exotic plants and long, relaxing walks, head to the LA County Arboretum. If you’re into racing, make sure to drop by the Santa Anita Racetrack and witness one of a kind racing in the area. Never forget to pay a visit to the Huntington Library Museum and Gardens, too. For a sightseeing adventure, trail the Mount Lowe Railway or the Echo Mountain and have a dose of pure bliss and excitement!