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13 Best Things to Do in Arcadia, CA

May 15, 2025
Woman getting food at the Night Market in Arcadia CA

Besides taking in these views, there are also many things to do in Arcadia, from community-driven events and festivals to a wide array of shopping and dining choices. It’s no wonder the city is one of the most sought after places to live in Southern California.

Arcadia Events & Festivals

Moon Festival

The Moon Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is an annual cultural event organized by the Arcadia Chinese Association (ACA), the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce, and the Arcadia Recreation and Community Services Department. This free event celebrates Chinese culture and features food, music, and family-friendly activities. Attendees can peruse vendor booths, taste a variety of teas, watch traditional Chinese dance and music performances, and try their hand at making mooncakes. Learn more at the City of Arcadia website.

Community Campout

Join your neighbors for an overnight adventure on the City Hall Lawn. The Arcadia Community Campout, hosted by the nonprofit Arcadia Parks Foundation, brings the town together to enjoy dinner, music performances, a movie, hot chocolate, and other fun activities under the stars. This is a ticketed event, so make sure to visit the Arcadia Parks Foundation website to grab your spot.

Snowfest

Held the first Saturday of December each year, the Snow Festival turns the Arcadia Community Center into a winter wonderland. It’s free to attend the event, with snow play, sledding, holiday-themed crafts, and games included; however, breakfast with Santa is a pre-sold, ticketed event. Visit the City of Arcadia website to learn more.

Concerts and Movies in the Park

Every Thursday during the summer, Arcadia residents flock to the City Hall Lawn to enjoy live music followed by a family-friendly film. Kids can also enjoy games, crafts, and other activities throughout the evening. Just make sure to bring lawn chairs or a blanket so everyone can get comfortable for a night out with family and friends. Learn more at the City of Arcadia website.

Parks & Outdoor Activities

Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden

With 127 acres of lush gardens, historic buildings, and roaming peafowl, this Arcadia attraction is famous around the world. Established in 1947 and opened to the public in 1956, the Arboretum features plants from across the globe in a wide variety of landscapes and gardens. It is also home to historic structures such as the Santa Anita Depot, a train station first built in 1890, and the Queen Anne House, constructed in 1885 and used for numerous films and TV shows including “Fantasy Island.” Learn more at the Arboretum’s website.

Arcadia Community Regional Park

Whether you’re looking to have a relaxing family picnic or let the kids cool off at the splash pads, this community park is the perfect place to enjoy a day outside. You can enjoy some friendly competition at the horseshoe pits, tennis courts, lawn bowling, or softball fields. And when it’s warm outside, the family can enjoy the park’s swimming pools and wading pools. There’s a lot to see and do at the park, so make sure to swing by the community center there to find out more, or visit the Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation website.

Peck Road Water Conservation Park

Enjoy a day of fishing, hiking, and bird-watching close to home at the Peck Road Water Conservation Park. This 5-acre park began life as a quarry, but is now part of the Los Angeles Flood Control Basin and the city’s water conservation efforts, which has helped the area return to its natural beauty. Visitors can take in sweeping views of the San Gabriel Mountains while biking, walking, or picnicking at the park.

Santa Anita Park

Santa Anita Park, which opened in 1934 and is in the National Register of Historic Places, is a prominent thoroughbred race track. When horses aren’t galloping to the finish line, it also hosts an eclectic mix of outdoor events throughout the year. You can enjoy events such as seasonal food festivals, wine and beer festivals, and even the Southern California Corgi Nationals. See the full list of events at the Santa Anita Park website.

Arts & Cultural Attractions

Arcadia Performing Arts Center

The performing arts center is a great place to catch local theater productions, concerts, and performances by community talent. Even though it’s located on the Arcadia High School campus, the center features a mix of school-level, local, and international acts. Check out their upcoming events and learn more at the Arcadia Performing Arts Center website.

Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage

This museum is a great way to discover Arcadia’s history through curated exhibits and interactive displays. It features permanent exhibits, such as “Arcadia in the Movies” and “Women in Arcadia,” as well as temporary and online exhibits. Besides the exhibits, families can also enjoy a variety of workshops and demonstrations. And if you’re looking to get involved, they’re always looking for volunteers 14 years old and up! Learn more at the Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage website.

Shopping & Dining

626 Night Market

Held annually for three days at Santa Anita Park, the 626 Night Market is the local version of the iconic night markets of Asia. In past years, there have been more than 250 participating craft, merchandise, and food vendors at the market - everything from local artisans to large retailers. The market also features art installations and music performances, creating a vibrant, exciting atmosphere. Find out the next market dates and buy tickets at the 626 Night Market website.

The Shops at Santa Anita

From shopping to dining to karaoke, The Shops at Santa Anita have something for everyone. Originally built in the 1970s, the mall has undergone tremendous changes and growth over the years. Inside you’ll find upscale boutiques, major retailers, kids play areas, a movie theater, a gym bowling alley, and a variety of food choices. Discover the full list of stores and restaurants at The Shops at Santa Anita website.

Arcadia Farmer’s Market

Shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and enjoy live music on the weekends.

Your New Home in Arcadia is Waiting for You

You can enjoy all of this and more when you buy a townhome in Arcadia with Brookfield Residential. In Brookfield’s Magnolia community, you’ll be near all of the action while enjoying the strong sense of community that Arcadia offers. Plus, you’ll have access to amenities such as a playground, barbecue area, fire pit and private clubroom.

Our team is excited to help you find the best place to call home with Brookfield Residential. Explore the Magnolia community and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!