La Crescenta-Montrose is a sleepy unincorporated community nestled between La Cañada Flintridge and Glendale. The area was not always conducive to permanent settlements. While the Tongva people resided on the land for thousands of years, European and Mexican settlers struggled to settle permanent colonies due to the lack of free-flowing water.
It wasn’t until after the Civil War when a medical doctor named Benjamin Briggs visited the area and built a hospital when construction began. Briggs felt the warm temperate climate would be beneficial to his work and healing patients. A trend of constructing hospitals and sanitariums in the area soon started. The famous Rockhaven Sanitarium resided in the former Crescenta Valley. Several celebrities from the Golden Age of Hollywood once lived there, hence its nickname as the "Screen Actors' Sanitarium."
As the valley prospered, these small, rural towns became magnets for people looking for a quieter life while still residing close enough to access urban amenities in nearby Los Angeles. La Crescenta-Montrose has maintained its reputation as a bedroom community ever since. Residents enjoy its suburban vibe, walkable shops, and breathtaking scenic views of the nearby Angeles Forest.
La Crescenta-Montrose retains a sense of classic small-town charm. Neighbors gather to hang out at the local market or community event, kids can walk or ride their bikes to school, and its neighborhoods are safe and well-maintained. Many of the residences are older homes, although some younger families have opted to renovate.
​​​​​​​The general population of La Crescenta-Montrose skews older since it's a low-key place to live. As such, younger folks might find the lack of nightlife or vibrant downtown doesn’t cut it, however Honolulu Blvd. has become a hub for nightlife and walkability. The city continues to evolve and grow increasingly popular. Nowadays, the community fosters a dense suburban feel as more families—both young and older—migrate to the area.
Even though La Crescenta-Montrose isn't as lively as Los Angeles, it does offer several excellent restaurants and mom-n'-pop shops. The central Montrose Shopping Park is a walkable district that makes for a delightful stroll. There aren't many chain stores—instead, the area is full of independently-owned businesses with friendly store owners who genuinely like to get to know their customers.
Among some of the best eateries is family-operated Pepe's, a Mexican restaurant serving fresh, authentic cuisine since opening its doors in 1970.
For Italian food, Divina Cucina is a Montrose community fixture that specializes in family dinners and wine. Chinese food lovers can't go wrong with New Moon, a sophisticated restaurant that pairs traditional and modern dishes.
Tickle Tree Cafe makes a great lunch spot. Their cheerful, upbeat atmosphere complements their creative sandwiches, tasty soba noodles, and burgers.
Thee Elbow Room is a hidden gem tucked into the Old Town foothills. With 18 rotating craft beer taps, giant Bavarian pretzels, and savory pub fare, this place will quickly become your new go-to.
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Somewhat similar in vibe and atmosphere is Basin 141, a rustic tavern that celebrates the history and spirit of old-school Los Angeles. Their menu pays homage to L.A. street food culture with creative gourmet twists. Customers have voted Basin 141 as having one of the best happy hours in the city.
One of the biggest events in La Crescenta-Montrose is the Arts & Crafts Festival. This massive festival features more than 200 food vendors, musicians, entertainers, and fine artists. Participating artists and vendors display an array of jewelry, art, handmade crafts, and more.
During the holidays, residents flock to the Montrose Christmas Parade hosted annually since the early 1950s and created by musical star Dennis Morgan. The parade's mission is pure and simple: provide the absolute best Christmas parade to Montrose and Glendale residents.
Come fall, Montrose Oktoberfest is a widely beloved event. Bring your entire family and enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience with games, rides, live music, and, of course, plenty of beer! Oktoberfest also features several fun contests, including the Best-Dressed Bavarian Dog Contest, Mr./Mrs. Oktoberfest, Stein-Holding Contest, and the Mustache & Beard Contest.
The Glendale Unified School District serves La Crescenta-Montrose. The district includes seven elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools, three independent study schools, and five private schools.
Among the most prestigious schools in the area are Crescenta Valley High School, Rosemont Middle School, and John C. Fremont Elementary School. All three schools are considered California Distinguished Schools while Crescenta Valley is also a Blue Ribbon school.
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