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. Let’s take a look at a few things to do in San Dimas, California.

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, especially in the charming San Dimas downtown area.
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.

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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
In 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.

If you are up for a family day surrounded by delightful natural areas, visit Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park in San Dimas, CA. This video from xplorewithalex will show you around and give you some ideas of what to do in San Dimas:

Whether you enjoy spending a day walking around downtown San Dimas, or taking in some of the town’s history at a local museum, there are plenty of fun things to do in San Dimas, California. That’s just the joy you find when you visit a small California town with a quiet calming vibe. Do you have a favorite small town in Southern California?

If you love the small-town California vibe, you’ll love this article about several spots in Southern California that feel wonderfully nostalgic.

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More to do around San Dimas, CA

Chris Muras | March 22, 2023

What are some fun things to do in San Dimas, California?

Whether old town San Dimas is up your alley exploring the historic district or you are looking for something a little more adventurous, San Dimas has plenty to offer. Here are a few things to do in San Dimas, CA:

  • Raging Waters: This epic water park in San Dimas is actually the largest in all of California. Not bad for a fairly small town. With massive water slides, wave pools, a long and soothing lazy river, and delightful kiddie areas, there is something to do for all ages.
  • Frank G Bonelli Regional Park: For a little less chaotic cool-off, visit this lovely park. Enjoy 14 miles of walking, biking, and hiking trails, peaceful picnic areas, playgrounds, beach areas, and waterspouts galore in the Puddingstone Reservoir.
  • San Dimas Canyon Nature Center: The interpretive programs at this nature center are informative, engaging, and a ton of fun. Or, you can simply wander through the park discovering your own slice of nature with walking and hiking trails, as well as an animal sanctuary filled with wildlife indigenous to Southern California.
  • Rockin' Jump San Dimas: If you are looking for indoor fun in San Dimas you can always get your jump on at this indoor trampoline park. Master your 360 slam dunk at the dunk zone or work on your dodgeball skills in the dodgeball arena. With foam pits, balance beams, and plenty of trampolines for freaky flips and mega-air, you will certainly work out a few kinks at this family-friendly event center.

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San Dimas, CA, USA