Southern California may be best known for its major cities (and for good reason), but anyone who calls the region home knows the true character lies inside its smaller cities and towns. And the next time you need a change of pace and a change of scenery, we recommend giving San Dimas a try. Full of parks, museums, equestrian vibes, and plenty of local history, this little city is an underrated gem.
San Dimas is located in the San Gabriel Valley of Los Angeles County, bordered by the stunning San Gabriel Mountains.
Nan Fry / Flickr While it’s only about 30 miles from the heart of Los Angeles, it’s all small-town vibes here.
San Dimas is home to about 33,000 people, and while it attracts its share of Californians, it’s not considered a tourist town.
Chuck Coker / Flickr In our opinion, this is a great reason to visit – it’s a nice, laid-back spot.
The area was originally developed in 1837, promptly becoming a hot spot for sheep and cattle ranches. It was called La Cienega Mud Springs, named for the local mud springs that were thought to be healing.
Wikipedia In 1887, the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley Railroad came to town, leading to a giant land boom and an eventual name change to San Dimas.
These days, the city is known for its Western art, equestrian culture, and historic sites.
Kaizer Rangwala / Flickr While you’re there, check out the old town district located along Bonita Avenue between Cataract and Walnut. You’ll find all sorts of buildings that date back to the 1800s.
For a real treat, stop by the Walker House, home to a restaurant called Luca Bella.
travelguru-su / TripAdvisor Walker House was built in 1887 to be a railroad hotel. Unfortunately, due to a land bust at the time, the hotel never saw a paying customer.
James and Sue Walker of Kentucky purchased the building in 1889, and it was a family home for many generations.
Kansas Sebastian / Flickr n 1972 the Walker House was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours are available, but you’ll have to call ahead and make a reservation.
Whether you’ve never been to San Dimas or it’s simply been a while, it’s worth paying a visit to this charming little spot.
Kansas Sebastian / Flickr Come see why those who call it home tend to be very happy Californians.
Do you have a favorite small town in Southern California?
Nan Fry / Flickr
While it’s only about 30 miles from the heart of Los Angeles, it’s all small-town vibes here.
Chuck Coker / Flickr
In our opinion, this is a great reason to visit – it’s a nice, laid-back spot.
Wikipedia
In 1887, the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley Railroad came to town, leading to a giant land boom and an eventual name change to San Dimas.
Kaizer Rangwala / Flickr
While you’re there, check out the old town district located along Bonita Avenue between Cataract and Walnut. You’ll find all sorts of buildings that date back to the 1800s.
travelguru-su / TripAdvisor
Walker House was built in 1887 to be a railroad hotel. Unfortunately, due to a land bust at the time, the hotel never saw a paying customer.
Kansas Sebastian / Flickr
n 1972 the Walker House was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours are available, but you’ll have to call ahead and make a reservation.
Come see why those who call it home tend to be very happy Californians.
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Address: San Dimas, CA, USA
