The San Gabriel Valley, on the other hand, is well into old age – and quite happy about it. No Angeleno would dare refer to this section in the same derisive tone that San Fernando Valley incurs – this valley holds its head high as Greater Los Angeles’ first settlement.

Mission San Gabriel Arcangel was established here in 1771, and Pasadena and San Marion, at het base of the San Gabriel Mountains, have been bastions of gentility, culture, and fortunes since the turn of the twentieth century. The high concentration of Craftsman-style architecture and stately houses, along with the splendid Norton Simon Museum and the Huntington cultural complex, are sure indicators that this area is one that prizes tradition. Even the Rose Bowl Parade dates back to the 1890s.

Filling the gap between the two valleys are the hectic film and television studios of Universal City and beautiful downtown Burbank, plus the far less lively Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale.