One Day in Glendora

Start your morning with a scenic drive along Glendora Mountain Road, one of Southern California's most beloved mountain routes winding through the San Gabriel Mountains. Big Dalton Canyon Wilderness Park offers accessible trails with beautiful chaparral scenery, seasonal creek crossings, and sweeping views of the San Gabriel Valley below.

Tip The first mile of the Big Dalton Canyon trail is easy and flat, great for casual hikers. Look for the old homestead ruins along the trail.

A beloved Southern California institution since 1951, The Hat in Glendora serves their legendary wet pastrami sandwiches piled high on soft French rolls, dripping with rich au jus. Don't miss the pastrami dip, chili cheese fries, and their classic onion rings — comfort food at its finest.

Tip Order the pastrami dip with extra au jus. The chili cheese fries are a must-add side. Lines can be long on weekends but move quickly.

Glendora Village is the charming historic downtown core of the city, lined with locally owned boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, and coffee houses along Grand Avenue and Glendora Avenue. The tree-lined streets and classic early-20th-century architecture make it one of the most walkable and picturesque downtowns in the San Gabriel Valley.

Tip Check out the antique stores on N Glendora Ave for unique finds. The village hosts a weekly Farmers Market on Saturdays. Pop into local boutiques for one-of-a-kind gifts.

Explore the scenic border area between Glendora and Azusa, where historic citrus grove neighborhoods give way to beautiful tree-lined residential streets characteristic of the old San Gabriel Valley citrus belt. The surrounding foothills provide a dramatic mountain backdrop that makes this area particularly photogenic in the late afternoon golden hour.

Tip Walk north toward the foothills for the best mountain views. The historic homes along Loraine Ave in Glendora are some of the most beautiful in the area.

A Glendora staple for Italian-American comfort food, Napoli Ristorante has been serving the community for decades with generous portions of classic pasta dishes, wood-fired flavors, and warm family-style hospitality. Standout dishes include the lasagna, chicken piccata, and house-made tiramisu — perfect for a satisfying dinner after a full day of exploring.

Tip Ask for a booth for a more intimate dining experience. The garlic bread is complimentary and excellent. Save room for the tiramisu.

End your Glendora day on a sweet note at Scoops, a charming local ice cream and candy shop in the heart of Glendora Village offering an extensive selection of house-made ice cream flavors, classic candy, and nostalgic treats. The cheerful atmosphere and rotating seasonal flavors make it a beloved neighborhood destination for locals and a delightful final stop for visitors.

Tip Try one of their rotating seasonal flavors — they often feature locally inspired creations. The candy selection is extensive and great for picking up souvenirs.