Why Pasadena Needs to be on Your Route 66 Road Trip

If you're an avid road tripper or traveler, you've more than likely heard of Route 66, which is a historic highway that runs through the United States, connecting cities from Chicago to Los Angeles.

Get your kicks on Route 66 with Pasadena's local attractions. The route was established in 1926 as one of the original highways in the US Highway System. Countless songs, works of literature, and television shows pay homage to this feat, and various sections of the road are now placed under the National Register of Historic Places.

Our Personal Picks: The Top Route 66 Spots in Pasadena

If you're having trouble picking certain spots over others in Pasadena, here are some recommendations on where to get started during your Route 66 itinerary on Colorado Boulevard.

Historic Midcentury Stays

In Pasadena, you'll find midcentury modern meeting neon-lit typography; these elements of '50s and '60s architecture and design feel like a time machine to the era of rock n' roll and grainy films.

Some of the original motels and neon signs are still standing like the Pasadena Rose and Crown Inn, Saga Motor Hotel, Ace Motel, and Hi-way Host Motel, while others have been converted into other businesses but retain their original architecture like Draper Studio for Models Art Deco Building (which is now Rose City Dental).

Colorado Street Bridge

Probably the most notable landmark is the Colorado Street Bridge, which is a joy to view. Though some areas of the decertified highway have been abandoned, Pasadena still honors this historic route and maintains its preservation, as it serves as the main road in the downtown area (now known as Colorado Blvd.). For a worms-eye view of the bridge, make your way to the kid-friendly Desiderio Park. This quiet area features a playground, picnic tables, benches, and bike racks.

Keep an eye out for: The original Bancroft Marker (also known as the Foothill Boulevard Milestone) is located at 1308 E. Colorado Blvd. and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Gamble House

Calling history aficionados and fans of '80s films! If you're planning to drive along Route 66 through Pasadena, it's always beneficial to take a detour through its tree lined neighborhoods that feature American craftsman architecture. Some notable buildings include the Gamble House – the filming site for Doc. Brown's home in Back to the Future – and Wrigley Mansion, the official headquarters of Tournament of Roses. Both locations also offer tours of the interior for a full architectural experience.

Norton Simon Museum

And of course, with all of its culture, it's no surprise that Pasadena is home to several art and history museums. The Norton Simon is an art museum that sits along Route 66/Colorado Blvd. while The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens is a 120-acre, full day activity. And to take a deep dive into Route 66's culture and its ties with how Pasadena was established, the Pasadena Museum of History is entirely dedicated to the city's roots and routes. (Pun intended.)

Rose Bowl Stadium

No trip to the City of Roses is complete without a quick stop at the Rose Bowl Stadium, which hosts the Rose Bowl Game every New Year's Day and has been an iconic location for sporting events, concerts, and more. Explore our events calendar for upcoming fun at the stadium, including the annual Pasadena Tournament of Roses on New Year's Day.

Did you know: Rose Bowl was developed in 1922 with its original horseshoe shape, but the stadium has since been expanded over the years and is currently the 11th-biggest stadium in the country.

Ghost Signs and Neon Signs

The old school signage found around the city is one of the biggest favorites for Route 66 travelers. They are preserved mementos of another time. Look around and spot remnants of the past as you enjoy a variety of activities in Pasadena, including:

  • Watch a play: The Pasadena Playhouse features a neon-lit sign, beckoning theater-goers to enter the opulent space. Operating since 1917, premiering plays from writers like Tennessee has since graced this grand stage.
  • Grab a bite: Serving comforting classics since 1930, Russell's is a nostalgic bistro experience with an old school neon sign above the entrance. Expect fluffy waffles and crispy bacon before taking a picture under the glowing sign.
  • Browse through locomotive sets: If you're not a railroad enthusiast, The Original Whistle Stop's vast toy locomotive inventory is still a fascinating display of bygone eras. You won't have any trouble finding this shop with its train-themed neon sign on the outside.

Other retro signs can be found at the Orange Grove Shopping Center, Crown City Mattress Works, Champion Laundry, and beyond in Pasadena.

Route 66 Road Trip Experiences

Route 66 Beer Collaboration

The Wild Parrot Brewing Company will celebrate the Route 66 Centennial on May 30, 2026, with a special highlight: the release of a collaborative beer brewed with a partner brewery from the Illinois end of Route 66. The limited edition will be available on tap starting May 30, while supplies last.

The Route 66 Cheese & Food Trail

In collaboration with the California Cheese Trail, the New Mexico Cheese Guild (NMCG) founded the Route 66 Cheese Trail to connect cheesemakers, cheese retailers, restaurants and specialty food destinations. Stops along the way include standout destinations like Pasadena’s own Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery, where travelers can explore an authentic and locally crafted food experience.

Resources

City of Pasadena Historic Pasadena Smartphone App

The City of Pasadena takes pride in its rich historical heritage, and to make it more accessible to residents and visitors alike, they have developed the Historic Pasadena Smartphone App. Download the app to explore Pasadena's historic treasures.

Historic Pasadena Smartphone App

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