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Santa Anita mall store in Arcadia, CA
Photo: Brandon Ho
View of Santa Anita mall in Arcadia, CA
Photo: GG Grace
View of Santa Anita mall in Arcadia, CA
Photo: Kamrin Street

Santa Anita mall

4.6(140 reviews)$Entertainment
🕑 2-4 hours depending on whether you're catching a movie or just browsing and playing👶 Best for all ages from toddlers to teens. Young children enjoy the play areas and family-friendly dining options, while tweens and teens appreciate the movie theater, trendy stores, and food court variety. The diverse offerings mean there's something to keep every age group happy during your visit.

About

Santa Anita Mall in Arcadia offers a one-stop destination for family fun with its combination of shopping, entertainment, and dining options. With a state-of-the-art AMC movie theater, dedicated play areas for little ones, and regular community events throughout the year, it's more than just a shopping center,it's a family-friendly hub where parents can tackle errands while kids stay entertained.

Highlights

  • AMC movie theater with family-friendly showtimes and blockbuster releases
  • Dedicated children's play areas for active entertainment between shopping stops
  • Regular community events including seasonal celebrations and kids' activities
  • Diverse food court and restaurant options suitable for picky eaters
  • Wide variety of stores including toy shops and family-oriented retailers

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right when doors open at 10 AM on weekdays for the quietest shopping experience and easy parking near the family amenities
  2. 2.Check the mall's website or social app for seasonal events like kids' craft workshops, character meet-and-greets, and holiday celebrations before your visit
  3. 3.Park near the AMC theater entrance for quickest access to both the movie theater and central play areas
  4. 4.Bring hand sanitizer and wipes for the play areas, especially during busy weekend afternoons when they see the most foot traffic
  5. 5.Take advantage of family restrooms located throughout the mall, which include changing stations and are more spacious for managing multiple kids

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (10 AM - 12 PM) offer the most relaxed experience with lighter crowds and ample parking. Sundays after opening at 11 AM are also good for families. Avoid Saturday afternoons when the mall is busiest, unless you're specifically coming for a scheduled community event.

What to Know

The mall offers free parking in a large lot with family-friendly spaces near entrances. Multiple dining options range from quick food court bites to sit-down restaurants, making meal planning easy. The venue is stroller-friendly with wide walkways and elevator access throughout.

Seasonal Notes

The mall hosts special events during major holidays including Easter egg hunts, Halloween trick-or-treating, and winter holiday celebrations with Santa visits. Summer often features extended hours and special kids' programming. Air conditioning makes it an excellent indoor option during hot Southern California summers.

Nearby Eats

The mall has extensive on-site dining including family favorites in the food court and sit-down restaurants, so you won't need to leave for meals. Din Tai Fung offers kid-friendly dumplings if you want a more unique dining experience during your visit.

More Activities Near Arcadia

Sports

Arcadia Aquatic Center

5.0$

Arcadia Aquatic Center is a welcoming community pool that's perfect for families looking to beat the Southern California heat. With dedicated family swim sessions, quality swim lessons for kids of all skill levels, and well-maintained facilities, it's an ideal spot for both recreational fun and helping your children build water confidence in a safe, supervised environment.

Activity

Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

4.8$$

The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a magical 127-acre wonderland where kids can wander through diverse gardens from around the world, feed ducks at the pond, and chase free-roaming peacocks. With wide, stroller-friendly paths, plenty of grassy areas for picnics, and endless opportunities for nature discovery, it's an ideal outdoor escape that combines education with adventure for the whole family.

Sports

Santa Anita Park

4.6$

Santa Anita Park offers a unique family outing combining the excitement of live horse racing with excellent kid-friendly amenities. This historic Arcadia venue features a dedicated playground, spacious picnic areas, and family days with special activities, making it surprisingly perfect for a casual day out with children. With free admission on select days and an affordable price point, it's an engaging way to introduce kids to a classic California tradition.

Park

Arcadia County Park

4.6Free

Arcadia County Park is a family favorite with something for everyone, from toddlers to teens. With its well-maintained playgrounds, spacious picnic areas, and multiple sports courts, it's the perfect spot for everything from a quick playground visit to an all-day family outing complete with games and picnics.