Glendale: More Than Just a Pretty Face (and a Bunch of Shops)
Glendale, California: the city that's trying really hard to convince you it's not just a suburb of LA. And to be fair, it's got some pretty solid arguments. Let's dive in!
Shopping 'Til You Drop (Or at Least Your Wallet Does)
If you're the type of person who enjoys spending money like it's going out of style, Glendale is your jam. The Americana at Brand is like an outdoor mall on steroids, with a dash of European charm. You've got your fancy stores, your casual stores, and everything in between. And let's not forget the dancing fountains, because nothing says "luxury shopping" like synchronized water choreography.
A Taste of Everything
Glendale has a surprisingly diverse food scene. You can go from slurping up a bowl of authentic ramen to digging into a juicy steak without breaking a sweat. And if you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of international cuisines to explore. Just remember, your taste buds might thank you, but your waistline probably won't.
More Than Just Surface Level Glamour
Okay, so Glendale might be all about the glitz and glam, but it's also got a bit of history and culture going on. The Alex Theatre is a stunning example of art deco architecture, and it hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year. And if you're into cemeteries (we all are, right?), Forest Lawn Memorial Park is a must-visit. It's like a museum of death, but in a really classy way.
Glendale: The Unexpected
You might be thinking, "Glendale? Really? That's all you've got?" Well, surprise, surprise! This city has a few tricks up its sleeve. For starters, it's home to the first-ever Baskin-Robbins. So if you're a serious ice cream connoisseur, you owe it to yourself to visit the birthplace of 31 flavors. And let's not forget that Glendale is surrounded by some pretty stunning hiking trails. So if you need a break from all the shopping and eating, you can always escape to nature.
In conclusion, Glendale is more than just a pretty face (and a bunch of shops). It's a city with a surprising amount of depth and character. So the next time you're in LA, don't just stick to Hollywood. Take a little detour to Glendale and see what you've been missing.
How-To Glendale
- How to survive the Americana at Brand: Wear comfortable shoes, bring a credit card (or two), and be prepared to people-watch.
- How to find the best food in Glendale: Ask a local. They'll know the hidden gems.
- How to appreciate Glendale's history: Visit the Alex Theatre and Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
- How to balance shopping and nature: Hike in the morning, shop in the afternoon.
- How to fully experience Glendale: Give it more than just a quick visit. Spend a day or two exploring.