Explore Pasadena Like a Local - Naz Sabripour

As the executive director of the Pasadena Convention Center, I oversee all facets of the center’s operations, in-house service partners, and aesthetics for a facility that hosts approximately 320 events annually, showcasing our venue to 420,000 visitors annually. I work closely with all operations departments and service
partners to ensure first-class service in order to exceed clientele and guest’s expectations.

I fell in love with Pasadena because of its diversity, majestic city hall, and big-city atmosphere. I grew up in Houston (4th largest city), and I was absolutely in awe with the amount of diversity and the number of people walking through beautiful and charming Old Pasadena when I moved here 12 years ago. I had never experienced anything like that growing up in the South. Pasadena has so much to offer from a plethora of amazing restaurants, great shopping, arts, and charming alleys.

For the vast array of people visiting our beautiful center and city, there is so much to see and so much to do. I would highly recommend a stroll through Old Pasadena, in search of tucked-away stores and restaurants along Mills Place and One Colorado (great Instagram shots). While at One Colorado, dine at Café Santorini for fantastic food, great service, and great ambiance. My friends and I frequently unwind at Urth Caffe in the Playhouse Village for a variety of teas and coffee, as well as fresh and healthy dishes. The Spanish latte is my favorite! Last, but not least, Vroman’s Bookstore (yes, a bookstore), for not only their extensive book inventory, but also for their wide range of gifts from unique pens, stationery, jewelry, and much more.

Naz Sabripour
Executive Director of the Pasadena Convention Center