Verdugo Viejo - Glendale, CA

Verdugo Viejo gets its name from the Verdugo family, which originally owned the land that became Glendale. The city of Glendale, which encompasses Verdugo Viejo and many other neighborhoods, incorporated in 1906. The city grew rapidly after incorporation, thanks to a railway depot and Leslie Coombs Brand, a booster of the city. Another population boom occurred during the 1980s and 1990s, but the city has still maintained its old charm.

Although Verdugo Viejo doesn't have any museums or art galleries, Glendale has several for residents to visit. Annual events that take place in Glendale include a holiday bike ride, a Halloween zombie walk, and the Glendale Cruise Night, a car show on Brand Boulevard.

The restaurant scene around the area features reasonably priced American diners along with a couple of international options.

Japanese food fans should visit Mori Teppan Grill. Family owned and with a relaxed vibe, you feel right at home the moment you walk in the door. Food gets prepared in front of diners, so you can watch the chef work his magic and even pull off a few tricks. Steak lovers should get the filet mignon, which has a buttery, tender texture. If you've got a sweet tooth, head over to Recess Eatery. You can get any meal of the day here, but the eatery specializes in desserts. Get the affogato for vanilla bean ice cream with an espresso shot to complement the flavor. A hip, casual atmosphere reflects the name of this restaurant and makes it a good choice for young professionals to grab a bite.

The local nightlife primarily consists of restaurants that stay open late. If you want more excitement, nearby neighborhoods in Glendale have unique bars and lounges to visit.

A walkable neighborhood, quick freeway access and public transportation options assist residents of Verdugo Viejo with traveling throughout the city.

Motorists can travel around the neighborhood and the city via local roads or the freeways. California State Route 134, running west and east, lies on the south end of Verdugo Viejo and connects the neighborhood to the San Fernando Valley and Pasadena. Interstate 5 and California State Route 2, both running north and south, lie west and east of the community and head toward downtown Los Angeles. You can park on the street; just check the signs for any restrictions.

Glendale Beeline buses service the community for local trips. Take the Los Angeles Metro for local or intercity trips. For longer trips, the Antelope Valley Line and the Ventura County Line Metrolinks have connections in Glendale. Taxis and ride-share companies such as Uber service the area, and pickups usually happen fast because of the area's popularity.

You can walk around the neighborhood for errands, but residents usually commute by car. Most of the streets in Verdugo Viejo don't have bike lanes.

Several free parks give residents a chance to bring the whole family and connect with the outdoors.

Nibley Park, the closest park to Verdugo Viejo, feels like a hidden gem in the community. Playgrounds and picnic areas make for family-friendly activities, but adults can also hit a few balls on the tennis courts when they want a workout. This 2.4-acre park remains secluded enough that coming here feels like a retreat away from the city.

Those with dogs can take a short drive west on the 134 to Griffith Dog Park within Los Angeles' enormous Griffith Park. Dogs can socialize with others their own size, as this park has sections for both large and small dogs. Water bowls and drinking fountains show that this park caters to both humans and animals.

Life in this neighborhood carries a lower cost of living than the average in Glendale. A one-bedroom apartment usually rents for about $1,800.

Riding to the city center on the Glendale Beeline costs $1, and gas prices come in around 14 percent higher than the national average. A pint of beer at the local pub costs about $6.

This neighborhood's shopping scene consists of nearby shops and boutiques, while the city features major shopping destinations including the Americana at Brand and the Glendale Galleria.

Artists should check out Swain's Art Supplies, just southeast of Verdugo Viejo. Family-owned and in business since 1949, this shop makes the customer experience a priority. A staff that enjoys demonstrating products, a section for kids, and discounts for students all combine to create a pleasant experience.

European Suits on Glenoaks Boulevard has everything the well-dressed man needs to attend a wedding or a job interview, and you can purchase a tux or suit here without spending a fortune. The purchase prices typically run less than rental costs elsewhere, and a full-service tailor makes speedy alterations.

Nearby grocery stores include Ralphs, Trader Joe's and Vons.