This charming city, nestled between Burbank and Pasadena, offers a perfect family-friendly blend of suburban tranquility and vibrant urban attractions. Whether you’re exploring shops, enjoying scenic mountain views, or diving into the rich local culture, Glendale has something for everyone. Here are some exciting activities to make the most of your day in this dynamic city!
1. Step into the wondrously macabre House of Spirits soirée this month
The avant-garde House of Spirits cocktail soirée has finally opened in Glendale at the reportedly haunted Nocturne Theatre for a limited time. If you’re looking for a Halloween festivity with a glamorous twist this month—this is it. Watch captivating macabre entertainment and dive into a rich storyline inspired by 19th-century Spanish painter Francisco Goya, Spanish folktales and historic traditions. Revelers will get to enjoy up to five craft cocktails, all included with your ticket.
📍 Location: The Nocturne Theatre, 324 N. Orange St, Glendale, CA 91203
2. Try some retail therapy at The Americana
Operated by the same team that created The Grove, the Americana offers outdoor dining areas and spacious grass fields that provide a relaxed, joyful atmosphere. Along with over 70 top retailers, it’s also emerging as a dining hotspot with popular spots like Din Tai Fung and a growing trendy food scene. This makes it one of the top Glendale tourist attractions.
📍 Location: 889 Americana Way Glendale, CA 91210
3. Wonder at the Museum of Neon Art
Linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty… Sang the wonderful Petula Clark back in the day, and that’s precisely what you can experience at the MONA. Here, you’ll find an array of neon art, equipment, artifacts, photography, and, of course, signs!
It’s the perfect spot for those looking for things to see in Glendale and to relive the golden age of dazzling, oversized signs, getting a delightful dose of nostalgia.
📍 Location: 216 S. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91204
4. See the luminous ‘We Call It Ballet’ show in L.A.
The iconic Nocturne Theatre will unveil Sleeping Beauty’s romantic tale with a unique dance and light show this December. ‘We Call It Ballet’ draws inspiration from the 1889 fairytale we all know and love, but with a beautiful twist.
Ballet dancers will take to the stage performing the beloved Tchaikovsky classic in a brand new way, donning illuminated costumes. It’s only in town for select dates in December, so secure your spot now!
📍 Location: The Nocturne Theatre, 324 N. Orange St, Glendale, CA 91203
5. Have a feast at Raffi’s
Glendale is known for its cherished neighborhood gems, and Raffi’s stands out as one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in the city. Our top recommendation is the barg (thinly sliced filet mignon) grilled to perfection, and served over sumac-dusted rice with a grilled tomato and Anaheim pepper.
📍 Location: 211 E Broadway, Glendale, CA 91205
6. Catch a film at the Laemmle
Unleash your inner hipster by catching a truly authentic independent film at the historic Laemmle Theatre, which has been showcasing great cinema for nearly a century, 75 years to be exact. This gem is perfect for cinephiles who appreciate movies as an art form, featuring a diverse lineup of classics, new releases, and foreign films.
📍 Location: 207 N Maryland Ave, Glendale, CA 91206
7. Satisfy your carbs cravings at Porto’s
Leave your Keto diet behind when you visit Porto’s, arguably one of the most delicious bakeries around. This legendary Cuban bakery has been a staple in Glendale for over 30 years. Prepare to indulge in not only a variety of flavorful coffees but also their iconic guava pastries, Cubano sandwiches, and empanadas.
📍 Location: 315 N. Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203
8. Enjoy the outdoors at Brand Park
If you love the outdoors and a chill atmosphere, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit this park. Like any great park, spending your afternoon here is free, and with a bit of creativity, it can transform into the perfect romantic picnic spot. It’s also an excellent location for a workout hike or simply a peaceful place to relax, meditate or wander at the library.
📍 Location: 1601 West Mountain Street Glendale, CA 91201
9. Visit celebrity graves at Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Los Angeles is the perfect place for celebrity spotting, but if your devotion lies with the stars of a bygone era who are no longer with us, you can pay your respects at Forest Lawn. This graveyard is the final resting place of Hollywood legends like Walt Disney and Elizabeth Taylor.
📍 Location: 1712 S Glendale Ave, Glendale, CA 91205
10. Glide the day away at Moonlight Rollerway
Put on your skates, tie your laces, and get ready to groove to the music like it’s the ’70s! Since 1950, Moonlight Rollerway has been a beloved roller skating rink, hosting a variety of events and classes. For instance, Saturday mornings are exclusively for kids, while Monday nights are reserved for those over 25. Just remember, they only rent roller skates, not inline skates!
📍 Location: 5110 San Fernando Rd, Glendale, CA 91204
11. Horseback ride at Verdugo Mountains
Ready to live out your cowboy fantasy and watch the sunset over the city as if you own the land? You can do just that, or simply reconnect with nature on a beautiful horseback ride through the scenic trails of the Verdugo Mountains. Explore the various options offered by LA Horse Rental for a unique afternoon of relaxation and wildlife right in Glendale.
📍 Location: 1850 W Riverside Dr, Glendale, CA 91201
12. Have a game night at Arcave
If the nostalgic neon lights above aren’t enough to draw you in, consider heading to Arcave for some classic arcade fun with legendary games from Pinball to Jurassic Park simulator! It’s the perfect place to host a birthday party and enjoy some delicious bites.
📍 Location:3725 Foothill Blvd unit o, Glendale, CA 91214