Headed to the Los Angeles area and looking for some budget-friendly outdoor activities? Look no farther than the Glendale area, a short 30-minute drive from LAX but with plenty of open space and a great jumping off point for exploring the Los Angeles metro area.

Few People

Although you are so close to the hustle and bustle of the second biggest metro area in the United States, at the Deukmejian Wilderness Park, you would never know. The 500,000-acre park in the San Gabriel Mountain foothills offers several moderately strenuous trails from 3-9 miles in length. Bring your buddies, grab a few rooms for rent Glendale CA and start exploring.

Some People

Brand Park, bequeathed to the city by its namesake Leslie C. Brand is a mere 31 acres and contains many extras you won’t find in a wilderness park such as a children’s wading pool, basketball court and sculpture garden. If you feel like getting outdoors (but not too far outdoors) and enjoying California’s lovely weather, Brand Park is a great choice. If you can, try to participate in a workshop or a tea ceremony at the Shoseian Teahouse in the Japanese Friendship Garden located in the park.

Plenty of People

If hiking and biking trails are not your thing, or you just like to intersperse them with people watching and shopping, The Americana at Brand has been stylized as a “family daycation” complete with a trolley, fountain, ice cream and entertainment. The shopping experience covers everything from a Tiffany & Co. to Tesla to Amazon 4-Star to Barnes & Noble. No one’s interests will be left out. Walk or trolley around to one of the 30 dining venues when you’re ready for a break.

A trip to the Los Angeles area doesn’t just have to be about Hollywood or Harry Potter World. There is plenty to do that won’t break the bank in the lovely suburb of Glendale.