Top Places to See When Driving from Altadena, California to Claremont, California
California is known for its magnificent sceneries, and what better way to take it all in than to take a road trip from Altadena to Claremont, two cities that offer breathtaking scenery and plenty of interesting stops. Driving along the Foothill Boulevard, you'll find stunning mountain ranges, picturesque towns, and even a charming village. Whether you're embarking on a solo trip or your family is tagging along, the Eastside of Los Angeles County is brimming with fun stops that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
In this article, we’ll list the top places to visit when driving from Altadena to Claremont. Each stop has its unique appeal, and you can explore the sites in any order. So, fasten your seatbelt and put on your favorite playlist, let’s hit the road!
1. Eaton Canyon Park
As you set out westward on Foothill Boulevard, you'll stumble upon Eaton Canyon Park, a popular hiking trail featuring a natural waterfall. The park covers over 190 acres of land and boasts a range of recreational activities, including hiking, nature watching, and picnicking. You can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear pools at Eaton Canyon Falls, or take a stroll along the stream that runs through the park.
2. Mt. Wilson Observatory
The drive from Eaton Canyon will take you through the roadway to the historic Mount Wilson Observatory. The observatory was built in 1917 and sits atop the mountain’s peak, providing an unmatched view of Los Angeles. Here, you'll find the iconic 100-inch Hooker Telescope. Visitors can take a guided tour through the observatory dome, where they learn about the history of astronomy, or observe the stars through one of the six telescopes available.
3. Sierra Madre
The charming town of Sierra Madre is just a short drive from Mt. Wilson Observatory. It's a picturesque small town that combines rustic mountain aesthetics with an idyllic and relaxed Californian feel. Explore the classic stores and family-run restaurants, or take a walk down the curvy street, which is known for hosting the Sierra Madre Playhouse. The town is also home to the Wisteria festival, which is held yearly to celebrate the blooming of one of the world’s largest wisteria vines.
4. Hutchinson's Nursery
For plant enthusiasts, the Hutchinson's Nursery is the perfect stop on your journey. This family-owned nursery has been providing the Eastside of Los Angeles with gardening products since 1919. The Nursery spread across acres of land and features rows of different plant species. Here, you can browse the collection of potted plants and get tips and advice from the friendly staff.
5. Padua Hills Theatre
As you approach Claremont, make a stop at Padua Hills Theatre, a rustic and charming theatre that has sustained itself for nearly seventy years. The theatre is situated in a picturesque setting amidst the San Gabriel Mountains, and it's often referred to as a hidden gem due to its secluded location. The Padua Hills Theatre has a rich history that dates back to the 1930s, attracting artists such as John Cage, Sam Francis, and in later years, music artists like Led Zeppelin. Today, it is a popular venue for weddings, theatre productions, and other events.
Conclusion
Driving from Altadena to Claremont can be both fun and enriching. Whether you're up for nature watching, stargazing, or exploring small towns, there's something for everyone along the Foothill Boulevard. These five stops are just a fraction of what the area has in store, but they’ll provide enough distractions to make your journey worthwhile. So, pack your bags, call some friends, and hit the road to start an adventure like no other.