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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.

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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.

Tours

My Valley Pass Film Tour

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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...

Event Venue

Noor Events

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NOOR shines brightest among LA's venues, elevating weddings, corporate events, holiday parties, galas, birthday parties and more into sublime celebrations. We...

Vintage Store

Pasadena Antique Mall

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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...

Event Venue

Pasadena City Hall

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City Beautiful Movement. The exquisite 1927 landmark exhibits Italian Renaissance and Spanish influences with its red tile roof, ornate fountain, and lush...

Entertainment

Pasadena Civic Auditorium

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Historic Venue This 3,000-seat theater was dedicated in 1932, and it is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Civic—as it is colloquially...

Entertainment

Pasadena Convention Center

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Campus-style Convention Center. The Pasadena Convention Center is located near City Hall, Central Library, Police Department and other civic buildings that...

Church/ Temple

Pasadena Masonic Temple

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The Pasadena Masonic Temple stands today as a beacon where the greatness of Masonry may be found. Completed in 1927, it holds an envious position for it was...

Landmarks

Pasadena Robinson Memorial

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The City of Pasadena has memorialized Jackie and Mack Robinson in two monumental bronze portrait heads sited across from City Hall in Pasadena, reflecting the...

Market/ Mall

The Paseo

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Shopping in PasadenaLocated in Pasadena's Civic Center district along historic Colorado Boulevard, The Paseo (formerly Paseo Colorado) is an open-air shopping...

Landmarks

Planetary Society

Planetary Society

The Planetary Society's vision is, "Know the cosmos and our place within it." Carl Sagan, Louis Friedman, and Bruce Murray recognized the public's interest in...

American

Ruth's Chris Steak House

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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...

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