Burbank is a medium-sized city and a prominent entertainment capital, but it still has a "small town feel." Enjoy a day browsing through unique stores or watch a taping of your favorite show.
Burbank is a diverse city which grew based on the entertainment industry and the airport. Both industries are still going strong and the city is still growing. During your trip you can have a picnic in a park, shop until you drop or take a tour of a television studio.
Downtown
Downtown Burbank is a thriving district where the majority of stores and restaurants are located. You'll never be bored if you walk down North San Fernando Boulevard which is lined with small shops and restaurants. The street leads up to the Burbank Town Center, a large shopping mall that is the heart of downtown Burbank. There you can find around 100 shops, movie theaters as well as several reputable restaurants, such as PF Chang's China Bistro. The shopping area near Burbank Town Center is full of well known stores, such as Urban Outfitters and Macy's, as well as cute boutiques including Zamba and SkyBluPink. The Burbank City Hall and other government buildings are also in the downtown area. Throughout the year there are several events held in the downtown area, such as Taste of Downtown Burbank and Come Out & Dance.
Empire Center Area
The Burbank Empire Center Area is a nice area for shopping and has several comfortable hotels nearby. The Empire Center area is near the northern edge of the city and includes the Bob Hope Airport. The actual Burbank Empire Center was created where Lockheed Airport Corporation used to be. The Center contains restaurants and department stores, such as Target, Costco and Best Buy. There are also artwork honoring airplanes throughout the Center which are an homage to the airport and Lockheed. The Center is surrounded by a residential area.
The Hills
East of the downtown district you reach the hills, which are mostly residential. You can find the romantic Castaway Restaurant or play a round of golf at De Bell Golf Course. If you drive up the hills at night you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.
Magnolia Park
The Magnolia Park area is mainly a residential area though if you walk down any of the main streets you'll spy unique shops and restaurants. If you're hungry head to Porto's Bakery for a sandwich or Yummy Cupcakes for a delicious treat. When you walk down West Magnolia Boulevard, you'll also find several thrift stores and boutiques, including It's A Wrap and Halloween Town.
Media District
If you are interested in the entertainment industry, go south of Verdugo and you'll find the Warner Brothers Studios, the Disney Studios and the NBC Studios. This area is also where the majority of the business offices are as well as several stores and restaurants, including the famous original Bob's Big Boy.
Rancho Equestrian District
The Equestrian Area is small district that is distinct from the rest of Burbank since residents can keep horses in their yard. The district is rather small and is roughly shaped like a rectangle surrounded by Griffith Park, Victory Boulevard, Keystone Street and Alameda Avenue. As you drive or walk through this area don't be surprised if you see horse stalls in most of the backyards. If you're in the mood for horseback riding head to the Equestrian Center.