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City Hall Civic Center District

Civic Center District

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. Great Maple is all about elevated Californian comfort food. 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 Buttercup, West Elm, H&M, J. Jill, Tommy Bahama, Bath & Body Works, and Victoria’s Secret. 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

The Rose is an intimate live music venue featuring an eclectic line-up of nationally acclaimed artists—book dinner and a show for the full experience. Beer lovers gravitate to The Yard House, where refreshing local beers are always on tap. Corner Craft Kitchen + Bar in The Hilton Pasadena and Charlie’s Bar in the Sheraton Pasadena are also great bets for late-night libations and bites.

Banter and bliss candles, essential oils, incense
Things To Do

Banter and Bliss

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...
Restaurant

Cordova Cafe & Bottleshop

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,...

El Cholo mexican
Restaurant

El Cholo Café

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

Fogo de Chão

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

Great Maple truffle fries
Restaurant

Great Maple

Comfort Food. Great Maple is a modern American restaurant specializing in upscale comfort food with a twist. Enjoy American classics made from scratch with...

la la land colorado street bridge filming location
Things To Do

My Valley Pass Film Tour

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...

Pasadena Antique Mall
Things To Do

Pasadena Antique Mall

Locals have voted Pasadena Antique Mall (300 E. Colorado Blvd.) the best antique shop in town for several years running. The family-run business located in...

Pasadena museums and culture
Things To Do

Pasadena Central Library

Pasadena's Historic Library. Opened in 1927, is the historic Pasadena Central Library. This historic library is a Mediterranean-style building designed by the...
Restaurant

Ruth's Chris Steak House

Ruth's Chris Steak House serves prime steak that packs in flavor with each bite. Here is where you will find an impressive dining experience that provides...

Starbucks
Restaurant

Starbucks

This Starbucks is located at Green Street and S. Marengo Avenue, on the corner of the Pasadena Convention Center. There is a public entrance on one side and an...
Things To Do

Tao of Wellness

Tao of Wellness is an Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic, as well as a Qi Gong studio, located in the Civic Center district. The practice...

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