Monrovia, CA

Monrovia was a part of the vast lands surrounding the San Gabriel Mission until a group of bankers and railroad executives converted the area to a small community in the late 1800s. With lots selling for around $100 each, the town managed to steer clear of heavy land speculators.

William Monroe, president of the Monrovia Land and Water Company, aided in bringing pepper trees to the city streets, along with free water and electric streetlights. In 1884, Monroe bought 210 acres of Monrovia land and built a home for his family on Primrose Avenue. Monrovia's popular main street, Myrtle Avenue, was named for Monroe's eldest daughter, Myrtle.

Centuries later, Monrovia still holds true to its small-town, family community. The neighborhood delights in hosting annual events, such as the Spring Egg Hunt and 4th of July Concert and Fireworks show. Monrovia also fosters local artists at the Friday Night Festival.

Discover an inviting array of dining choices on the northern slopes of Monrovia. Myrtle Avenue runs south to neighboring Duarte, but if you stick close to the hill you run into "Old Town." Cars must drive slowly up Old Town's narrow stretch because residents take their time enjoying life. A true gem in the town, the Friday Night Family Festival has remained a unmatched tradition for decades. Monrovia closes off Myrtle Avenue to make way for those with a hunger for food and more. Dining booths and craft vendors line the street, while live music plays and children enjoy pony rides. The festival runs every Friday night year-round, giving foodies the perfect opportunity to sample offerings from Monrovia's finest.

For the best pizza in town, visit Old Town Pizza, where friendly servers bring you scrumptious pizzas and eggplant parmigiana to savor. Hot wings and jalapeño poppers make fantastic munchies, and a clear view of Monrovia's ancient trees across Myrtle Avenue give you something to smile about while you dine.

Locals know one thing about Monrovia's mom-and-pop restaurants: JB Burgers at the corner of Myrtle and Olive ranks among the best. Choose from a hefty steak or pastrami sandwich, or whet your appetite with a carne asada burrito. No matter your taste, JB's menu runs the gamut of addictive choices.

Monrovia features a range of exciting bars and nightlife options. For crafted beers and classic comfort foods, head to T Phillips Alehouse and Grill in Old Town. Treat yourself to a homemade chicken pot pie and a glass of Chimay, or sit down to a filling guacamole burger and a flight of beers to start off your night. The casual dining room proves a welcoming spot to sit down with a group, or cozy up to the bar to get a closer look at all the beers available at this classic ale house.

To kick up some dance moves, enter the Fourth Dimension also located in Old Town, with its pool tables, a lounge, and a popping dance floor. Known for its competitive prices, the Fourth Dimension can't be missed when you want to experience late-night Monrovia to the max.

Many Monrovia residents explore Old Town by foot, although you'll need a car to make your way up into the hills. The San Gabriel Valley's Foothill Transit bus service connects the community by public transportation. Make sure to call ahead for a taxi as they are hard to hail from the street. Uber services the area as well. Parking around Old Town can get tricky on busy nights, but during the day you can find a free spot, even if you have to park in a nearby residential location. Drivers can easily access Interstates 210, 10, and 605 to travel west to Pasadena and Los Angeles, east to Palm Springs, and south to Long Beach.

Cyclists and pedestrians move about effortlessly through the beautiful scenery. Still, take caution on the busier streets and winding turns leading up the hills.

For a rustic touch of leisure, Monrovians visit one of their seven parks. Those looking for a peaceful setting for the family go to Monrovia Canyon Park on Canyon Boulevard. In its 80 acres you can truly appreciate nature on the quiet hiking trails. Host a business gathering by renting the park's cabin conference facility. Picnic tables and barbecues invite groups for the day, while restrooms and drinking fountains make the outing worry-free.

Park-goers looking for more recreation head to South Shamrock Avenue. Here you'll find 22 acres at Recreation Park with a baseball field, tennis courts, and an area for roller hockey and skateboarding. Basketball lovers go wild, and volleyball players get to play in the sand. Recreation Park welcomes children and well-managed pets. As a plus, all Monrovia parks may be enjoyed with no parking costs.

The City of Monrovia hosts the Summer Concert Series at Library Park where folks can enjoy a relaxing evening of free musical entertainment.

A one-bedroom apartment in Monrovia runs $1,366, a bit lower than its San Gabriel Valley neighbors Arcadia, Sierra Madre, and Pasadena and is also lower than Los Angeles.

Public transportation is also slightly lower than that of Los Angeles, costing $1.50 for the base fare. Drivers experience gasoline prices that run 11 percent higher than the national average. A pint of beer runs around $6 locally.

Along Myrtle Avenue in Old Town, you can find some unique shopping choices. In keeping with the town's charm, cost-efficient boutiques such as Lucy's Final Touch know how to please. Touted as a "super-cute boutique," Lucy's displays clothing treasures and accessories, with few items costing over $30.

Down on West Huntington Drive, a long-standing favorite sits on the corner: Suo Boutique. Another prudent choice for savings, Suo never disappoints the trendy shopper. Scour the neatly stacked items and hanging racks for attractive dresses and tops you rarely find elsewhere.

For groceries, locals stop at Pavilions or Ralphs on Foothill Boulevard or wait for the popular farmers market on Sunday mornings. A host of food choices also abound at the Friday Night Festival.