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things to do

Things to Do

Explore and experience Pasadena including over 600 restaurants, nightlife activities, hotels, museums, education and more.

scenic bridges Pasadena

Located 10 miles from Los Angeles, Pasadena welcomes visitors with 300 days of sunshine, tree-lined streets filled with historic architecture, national landmarks, popular art & cultural institutions, eye-catching retail and a diverse selection of restaurants. Explore the “Crown of the Valley” solo or as a group to discover what makes the city one of Los Angeles’ unique hidden gems.

Pasadena museums and culture

Architecture & Tours

With 16 historical districts packed into 23 square miles, Pasadena has a wealth of incredible architecture to discover.

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Pasadena Shopping Destinations, Vintage Finds, Antique, One-of-a-kind, Southern California, Things to Do

Shopping in...

Find unique treasures and exceptional bargains at retailers ranging from exclusive boutiques and national department stores to flea markets and...

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Pasadena Shopping, Bookstore, Things to Do

Bookstores & Comic...

Are you tired of the same old bookstore chains? Have you read enough "New York Times Best-Sellers" to make your eyes go dry?

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norton simon museum

Museums

Pasadena is known for its abundance of renowned cultural institutions, many within walking distance of one another.

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Pasadena Civic Auditorium

Music and Theater

Do you accidentally give driving directions using stage left and stage right? Is your go-to dance move the jazz square?

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Pasadena Dining

Restaurants &...

Trying new cuisines is one of the most thrilling experiences for taste buds and cultural immersion. Pasadena is home to over 650 restaurants, where...

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Pasadena Hotels

Places to Stay

Choosing Pasadena as your home base for any trip to the Los Angeles area is a smart strategy. From here, you’ll have fast, easy access to downtown...

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Hiking at Angeles National Forest

Outdoor & Wellness

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Pasadena is divided into four major districts. Old Pasadena, Civic Center District, Playhouse Village, and South Lake Avenue District each hold a unique charm that sets it apart from their companion Pasadena neighborhoods.

District Guide
Old Pasadena Street

Old Pasadena

With 22 blocks designated as a National Register Historic District, Old Pasadena abounds with impeccably restored late 19th and early 20th-century...

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convention center exterior

Civic Center...

The Civic Center District is a vibrant zone that sits between Old Pasadena and The Playhouse Village. The beautiful Beaux-Arts and Mediterranean...

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Pasadena Arts

Playhouse Village

The artsy Playhouse Village is home to the renowned Pasadena Playhouse along with museums, galleries, eateries, and a smattering of independent...

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South Lake Avenue

South Lake Avenue

South Lake is a 12-block stretch of boutiques, restaurants, and purveyors of beauty, health, and wellness. Major national chain stores like Macy’s...

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Pacific asia museum
Architecture

USC Pacific Asia Museum

USC Pacific Asia Museum. USC Pacific Asia Museum is the only university museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to the arts and culture of Asia...

Vista del Arroyo Hotel
Architecture

Vista del Arroyo Hotel

Richard H. Chambers Courthouse. The Richard H. Chambers United States Court of Appeals is located in what was once the Vista del Arroyo Hotel. The property...

vromans
On the Parade Route

Vroman’s Bookstore

Oldest Independent Bookstore. Founded in 1894, Vroman's is the oldest bookstore in Southern California. It is located next door to the Laemmle Playhouse 7...
Historic Building

Wanderlust Creamery

Flavors from Around the World. Located in Old Pasadena's Indiana Colony is Wanderlust Creamery. Treat yourself to artisanal ice cream flavors inspired and...

Whitmore Rare Books
Shopping

Whitmore Rare Books

If you're an antique book collector and are traveling through Old Pasadena, Whitmore is not one to miss. The owner, Dan Whitmore, has a passion for rare books...

Playhouse Village Arcade Alley Sunset
Shopping

Wollhaus

Looking for a place for hand-spun yarn and crafting supplies? Wollhaus is the place for you and any serious artisan. Find sewing supplies, tools, specially...

World hats mart
Shopping

World Hats Mart

Looking for a new hat? World Hats Mart has all you could possible need, with walls, counters, and shelves lined with a wide selection of hats for every...

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