16 Fun & Best Things to Do in Burbank, California

Ever wonder if you should visit Burbank, California? It was once famous for wines and wineries. Now sometimes referred to as the Media Capital of the World, Burbank is just a short 21 miles from the Pacific Ocean and 12 miles northwest of Downtown Los Angeles.

Unlike San Francisco, the summers are hot and arid in the San Fernando Valley, and the winters are cool and wet. The temperature varies from 88°F to 46°F, providing nature enthusiasts a long spring and summer to enjoy the outdoors. There are over 41 Burbank parks in the area. These parks have over 70 trails covering over 418 miles for all levels of hiker.

While hiking is fun, did you know that the first U.S. patented monorail was designed and built in Burbank in 1907? Cool, right? It failed, but the region’s inventive and creative spirit lived on.

Aviation was a driving force in the Los Angeles area. Home to Lockheed Martin, some of Howard Hughes’ aircraft facilities were also based in Burbank. The eclectic aviator set the U.S. transcontinental record by flying from Burbank to Newark, New Jersey, in just under 7 hours, 29 minutes.

In addition to jet engines and wide open spaces, Downtown Burbank is about business. It is home to North America’s largest IKEA store located on San Fernando Boulevard. In fact, there are over 600 local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues surrounding Burbank Center.

But as the town’s nickname confirms, the Media Capital of the World is best known for supporting the television and film industry. Endless major Hollywood studio productions have filmed in Burbank over the years. The city is currently home to Disney Studios, and Warner Brothers, with Netflix Animation soon to be a new kid in town.

But you may be wondering, is Burbank, California, worth visiting? Yes, and it’s easy to find dozens of things to do in the city. Because whether you are looking for art, film tours, quirky boutique shopping, or exciting history, at the end of the day, Burbank is all Southern California. 

TLDR

• Most significant landmark – Burbank City Hall
• Best park – Wildwood Canyon Park
• Best free activity – Stough Canyon Nature Center
• Best activity for kids – Martial Arts History Museum
• Best activity for adults – Urban Press Winery
• Best food – Castaway Burbank
• Best nightlife – Flappers Comedy Club
• Best all-around accommodation – Coast Anabelle Hotel

Fun & Best Things to Do in Burbank, California