Nestled right in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, West Covina is so much more than a dot on the map between Los Angeles and the Inland Empire.
This city has its own vibrant pulse, a unique blend of suburban comfort, sprawling green parks, and a food scene that will seriously impress you. Forget fighting for parking and paying premium prices; West Covina is where you find the real, relaxed Southern California vibe.
So, you’re ready to explore and need the inside track on where to go and what to do? You’ve landed in the right spot. We’re pulling back the curtain on the absolute best things to do in West Covina, from epic outdoor escapes to shopping and dining gems you won’t find anywhere else.
This list is your all-access pass to experiencing a city that truly has it all. Get ready to see why West Covina is one of the San Gabriel Valley’s best-kept secrets.
1. Galster Wilderness Park – Best Overall
If you want to see the absolute best of West Covina’s natural side, Galster Wilderness Park is your first and most important stop. This isn’t your average neighborhood park.
Tucked into the hills, it’s a stunning 42-acre nature preserve that feels a world away from the city bustle. You get a real taste of California’s wild beauty right here in town.
The park features a fantastic nature center with live animal exhibits, including snakes and turtles native to the area. But the real magic is on the trails.
The hiking paths wind through oak and walnut woodlands, offering some seriously beautiful views of the San Gabriel Valley. It’s peaceful, it’s educational, and it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature.
Spending a morning here is the top thing to do in West Covina for families, couples, or anyone needing a breath of fresh air.
It showcases the city’s commitment to preserving green space and provides an unbeatable outdoor experience. Don’t forget your water bottle and camera!
2. The Eastland Center – Best For Shopping & Entertainment
For a classic Southern California day out, you can’t beat The Eastland Center. This open-air shopping hub is the heart of retail and entertainment in the city.
With a great mix of big-name stores, smaller boutiques, and a buzzing food court, it’s the perfect place to shop, grab a bite, and just enjoy the famous SoCal sunshine.
What really makes it a key West Covina activity is the vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
It’s always buzzing with life. You can catch a movie at the state-of-the-art AMC theater, do some serious shopping, or just people-watch from a bench. It’s a one-stop shop for a fun, hassle-free day.
Whether you’re hunting for a new outfit or just looking for a cool place to stroll, a trip to Eastland Center is a essential part of any West Covina visit. It’s a central gathering place that truly reflects the city’s diverse and friendly spirit.
3. Hurst Ranch Historical Center – Best For Local History
Step back in time and discover the agricultural roots of the area at the Hurst Ranch Historical Center.
This living history museum is a fascinating glimpse into West Covina’s past, when citrus groves dominated the landscape instead of shopping centers. It’s a humble, heartfelt tribute to the pioneers who shaped this community.
The center is run by volunteers who are passionate about local history, and their stories really bring the place to life.
You can see historic farm equipment, tour the original ranch house, and learn about the region’s transformation. It’s a quiet and reflective spot that adds a whole new layer of meaning to your visit.
For history buffs and curious minds, this is one of the most unique and insightful things to do in West Covina. It’s a reminder of the rich stories that lie beneath the modern cityscape. Check their website for open hours, as they are typically open on weekends.
4. Big League Dreams – Best For Sports Fans
Ever dreamed of hitting a home run on a replica of Yankee Stadium? At Big League Dreams, you can. This massive sports complex is not just for elite athletes; it’s a paradise for anyone who loves the game.
The park features scaled-down replicas of famous ballparks where you can watch amateur leagues play or even join a team yourself.
The atmosphere is electric, especially on a weekend game day. With music playing and the smell of grills firing up, it feels like a permanent sports festival.
Even if you’re not playing, it’s a fantastic place to watch a game, enjoy the energy, and grab a casual meal.
Visiting this iconic sports park is a home run choice for fun things to do in West Covina. It’s a unique, active, and totally immersive experience you won’t find anywhere else in the area.
5. Shadow Oak Park – Best For Families
When you need a surefire hit for the whole family, head straight to Shadow Oak Park. This community park is a local favorite for a reason.
It boasts a huge, modern playground that will keep kids entertained for hours, plus plenty of wide-open green space for running around, flying a kite, or having a picnic.
The park is always clean, safe, and filled with the happy sounds of families enjoying their day. It’s the perfect spot for a birthday party, a casual weekend hangout, or just burning off some energy after school.
The relaxed vibe is pure Southern California suburbia at its best.
For a low-cost, high-fun afternoon, this is one of the best things to do in West Covina with kids. It’s a simple pleasure that captures the friendly, family-oriented heart of the city.
6. The Vibe – Best For A Casual Bite
Looking for a local eatery that’s got character and killer food? You have to check out The Vibe. This isn’t a chain restaurant; it’s a homegrown spot that reflects the diverse tastes of West Covina.
The menu is a creative mashup of American comfort food with global twists, offering plenty of options for both meat lovers and vegans.
The atmosphere is, as the name suggests, all about good vibes. It’s casual, the staff is friendly, and the food is consistently delicious. Whether you’re craving a loaded burger, a fresh salad, or something totally unique, they’ve got you covered.
Grabbing a meal here is a must-do West Covina activity for any foodie. It’s a beloved local gem that delivers a fantastic dining experience without any pretense. You’ll leave planning your next visit.
7. South Hills Park – Best For Hikers & View Seekers
For the best panoramic views in the entire city, you have to earn them at South Hills Park. This rugged, beautiful park is a step up in adventure from Galster, with steeper trails that lead to breathtaking overlooks.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to the downtown Los Angeles skyline.
The trails are well-used but maintain a wild feel, winding through chaparral-covered hills. It’s a popular spot for dog walkers, trail runners, and anyone looking for a serious workout with an incredible payoff. The sight of the city spread out below you is absolutely worth the climb.
Hiking here is, without a doubt, one of the top outdoor things to do in West Covina. It showcases the city’s stunning natural setting and gives you a whole new perspective on the area. Just remember to wear good shoes and bring water.
8. West Covina Lanes – Best For Retro Fun
When you’re in the mood for some old-school, hands-on fun, West Covina Lanes is the spot. This isn’t a fancy, neon-soaked arcade; it’s a classic bowling alley that has been serving the community for years.
The sound of rolling balls and crashing pins is the sound of pure, simple joy.
It’s the perfect place for a family outing, a date night, or a friendly competition with your pals.
The atmosphere is laid-back and inclusive—it doesn’t matter if you bowl a strike or a gutter ball, everyone has a great time. It’s a timeless American pastime right in the heart of the city.
A few games at West Covina Lanes is a fantastic and fun thing to do in West Covina when you want to unplug and connect the old-fashioned way. It’s a local institution that never gets old.
9. Cameron Nature Preserve – Best For A Peaceful Stroll
If you love Galster Park but are looking for something a little quieter, make your way to the Cameron Nature Preserve. This smaller, hidden gem offers a serene network of trails that are perfect for a gentle walk, a morning jog, or some quiet contemplation.
The preserve is a vital wildlife corridor, and you’re likely to see plenty of birds and other critters going about their day.
The trails are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them accessible for almost everyone. It’s a wonderful little escape.
Finding this peaceful preserve is one of the best local secrets for things to do in West Covina. It’s a testament to the city’s many layers, offering a quiet corner of nature for those who seek it out.
10. The Shops at Citrus – Best For Foodie Exploration
For the ultimate culinary tour, you need to explore The Shops at Citrus. This stylish, open-air plaza is a food lover’s paradise, featuring an incredible array of restaurants and cafes.
From trendy juice bars and vegan eateries to restaurants serving up sizzling plates of meat-centric meals, the variety is astounding.
You can travel the world with your taste buds in a single afternoon. Grab a coffee, then some sushi, and finish with a sweet treat from a local bakery. The plaza is beautifully designed, with plenty of seating and a lively, upscale feel.
Dining your way through this center is a premier West Covina activity for anyone who appreciates good food. It’s a dynamic and delicious reflection of the city’s modern and diverse culinary scene.
11. Edgewood Park – Best For Picnics & Recreation
Another fantastic entry in West Covina’s roster of great green spaces is Edgewood Park. This park is a hub of community activity, with something for everyone.
It features sports fields, tennis courts, a great playground, and vast, shaded lawns that are perfect for spreading out a picnic blanket.
On any given weekend, you’ll see families celebrating, friends playing soccer, and people just lounging in the sun. It has a vibrant, active energy that’s contagious. The facilities are top-notch and always well-kept.
Planning a picnic or a game day at Edgewood Park is a classic choice for fun things to do in West Covina. It’s a place where the community comes together to play and relax.
12. West Covina Farmers Market – Best For Local Flavors
To taste the freshest flavors of California, you have to visit the West Covina Farmers Market. Held every week, this market is a bustling gathering of local farmers, artisans, and food vendors. The air is filled with the smell of ripe fruit, fresh flowers, and delicious prepared foods.
You can chat directly with the growers, sample unique varieties of produce, and pick up everything you need for a fantastic meal. It’s more than just shopping; it’s an experience that connects you to the local land and community.
A Saturday morning spent here is one of the most authentic and enjoyable West Covina things to do. It’s a vibrant, sensory-filled event that showcases the best of what the region has to offer.
Conclusion
As you can see, West Covina is a city of fantastic contrasts—where rugged hiking trails lead to stunning city views and where historic ranches sit alongside bustling shopping and dining destinations.
It’s a place that offers a genuine and welcoming slice of Southern California life, without the crowds and fuss.
Your adventure in this dynamic city is just waiting to begin. So, lace up your hiking shoes, work up an appetite, and get ready to explore.
The best things to do in West Covina are ready for you to experience them firsthand. Don’t just read about it—get out there and make some memories