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City Hall Civic Center District

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 Revival landmark buildings have set the stage for many a film and television show, so it can feel like one big movie set. And the Pasadena Convention Center attracts a steady stream of events, expos, and activities, such as the wildly popular “America’s Got Talent” auditions.

Eat

Start your day at the Frenchifornia Bakery where the decadent pastries are lovingly made by the hands of the French expat owners. Cordova Cafe is a quick place for a bite or happy hour. Lunasia Dim Sum House is revered for its dumplings made fresh to order. El Cholo features flavorful authentic Mexican fare. If you’re craving a quality steak, you’ll be spoilt for choice between Ruth Chris Steakhouse, Fleming’s Prime, Steakhouse & Wine Bar, and Alexander’s Steakhouse.

The Paseo Fountain

Shop

The Paseo, a contemporary mixed-use retail center, is the Civic Center District’s shopping destination. Here you’ll find brands like H&M, Tommy Bahama, and Bath & Body Works. The family-run Pasadena Antique Mall has earned the locals’ vote for the city’s best antique shop several years running. Their whimsical selection runs the gamut from vintage collectibles and retro clothing to period furniture and time-tested books.

Play

A visit to Pasadena’s iconic City Hall is a must—the stately John Baker and Arthur Brown designed building was completed in 1927. Across the street, stop by the Robinson Memorial, two large bronze sculptures that pay tribute to brothers Jackie and Mack Robison. The boundary-breaking American athletes are considered native sons after spending their formative teenage years in Pasadena. See what’s on stage at the 1932 Pasadena Civic Auditorium and hit the ice at the Pasadena Ice Skating Center.

pasadena ice skating center public skating kids
wine bar

Nightlife

Beer lovers gravitate to the Yard House, where refreshing local beers are always on tap. Corner Craft Kitchen + Bar in The Hilton Pasadena and Agents Only in Hotel Dena are also great bets for late-night libations and bites.

Bar/Pub

Agents Only

Agents Only Interior

Arts-Centric Restaurant. Hotel Dena and Chef Pablo Salas teamed up to provide guests with a soulful Mexican culinary experience. Chef Salas meticulously...

American

Alexanders Steakhouse

Alexanders Steakhouse steak

Pasadena Steakhouse. Alexander's Steakhouse showcases a fine dining interpretation of the classic American steakhouse, incorporating hints of Asian influence...

Gift Shop

Banter and Bliss

B&B

Banter and Bliss is a make-your-own candle shop. Banter & Bliss is the premier provider of candlemaking experiences with services offered for all kinds of...

Bookstore

Battery Books

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The Battery Books and Music is a used bookstore in Pasadena, located within walking distance of the Pasadena Convention Center. Search through aisles filled...

American

Cordova Cafe & Bottleshop

Cordova Cafe

Cordova Cafe is a small cafe in the Civic Center District of Pasadena. Less than a block away from the Pasadena Convention Center, the cafe sells sandwiches,...

Mexican

El Cholo Pasadena

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Authentic and Traditional Mexican Food. El Cholo restaurants feature authentic and traditional Mexican dishes, many of which have come from family recipes...

Bakery/Café

Europane Bakery and Café

EB

French-inspired. Europane is walking distance from the Pasadena Convention Center off of historic Route 66. Since 2010, Europane has served breakfast and...

Latin American

Fogo de Chão

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Fogo de Chão, the internationally acclaimed restaurant brand that allows guests to make culinary discoveries at every turn features an expansive dining room...

Asian

JIN Tea Shop

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Handcrafted DrinksJIN Tea Shop has the strong belief that tea has more to offer then a pleasing aroma with great taste. Tea has health benefits good for the...

Asian

Lunasia Dim Sum House

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Chinese Restaurant. Lunasia Dim Sum House is located on Colorado Blvd., near Pasadena City Hall. Their signature is steamed pork dim sum (dumplings), however...

Asian

Miss Cheese Tea Cafe

Miss Cheese

Hop off the train at Del Mar Station and you come face-to-face with Miss Cheese Tea Café, one of Pasadena's additions to the boba family, that's rapidly...

Tours

My Valley Pass Film Tour

Doc's House

Join "Jared on Location" as he guides you throughout Pasadena in a comfortable limo bus to some of the most iconic filming locations of your favorite movies...

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