Things to Do
Books & Comic Shops
Are you tired of the same old bookstore chains? Have you read enough "New York Times Best-Sellers" to make your eyes go dry?
Pasadena Originals
Shopping in Pasadena
Shopping in Pasadena is a popular recreational activity, count it in as sightseeing, catching up with friends, or treasure hunting.
Shopping Districts
Spanning 22 blocks, Old Pasadena reflects the traditions of early California blending more than 200 retail stores, art galleries, trendy boutiques, vintage clothing stores, theaters and restaurants.
The Pasadena Playhouse Village is an eclectic mix of art, theatre and literature, all enhanced with 1920s architecture. Visit Vroman’s Bookstore, the oldest independent bookstore in Southern California. Other must-sees include Canterbury Records and Jacob Maarse Florist.
European ambiance is most evident along the 10 tree-lined blocks of South Lake Avenue, which is home to upscale boutiques, designer stores and eateries all within its easily walkable area. This active business community and bustling retail center features Macy’s and Williams-Sonoma.
Paseo Colorado, in the Civic Center district, has an open-air promenade and more than 60 street-front shops. Right next to the Civic Auditorium is the Pasadena Visitor Center where Pasadena merchandise is available for purchase. Merchandise includes totes, stickers, water bottles, and t-shirts proudly adorning illustrations of the city's beauty. All over town, you'll also find Museum stores that offer distinctive gifts like the USC Pacific Asia Museum. While flea markets and shops dedicated to vintage finds make the city an antique lover’s dream.
Shopping Plazas
Nestled in the heart of Old Pasadena, One Colorado, a creative expanse of more than 25 stores, is anchored by a beautiful brick courtyard. Where 19th century architecture meets superlative shopping. National retailers and one-of-a-kind boutiques include The Unicorn Store and Topdrawer. Retailers include Tiffany & Co., Alo, Apple Store, and Banana Republic.
The Paseo is an open-air marketplace featuring shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and luxury gym, Equinox. Specialty retailers include Tommy Bahama, Bath & Body Works, H&M and DSW.
Pasadena Commons is a modern retail and dining center in the South Lake Avenue District. Dine at the Uovo for fresh handmade pasta from Italy. Get motivated for the day and pack a workout in at SoulCycle.
Flea Markets
The Pasadena City College Flea Market is held the first Sunday of each month and is free. Peruse the wares of 450 vendors offering antiques, records, collectibles, and food.
Pasadena’s famous Rose Bowl Flea Market is held the second Sunday of every month at the Rose Bowl Stadium and costs a nominal fee. The market boasts more than 2,500 vendors selling vintage clothing, antiques, handmade quilts, and collectibles. Celebrity sightings are frequent!
Antiques
Pasaden's Antique District is a haven for antique enthusiasts, offering a variety of unique and charming shops that cater to all tastes. The Pasadena Antique Center & Annex alone offers 130 dealers selling furniture, jewelry, art, and rare books. Pasadena Antique Mall at Paseo is a family-run business that has everything from whimsical collectibles to retro clothing and period furnishings. Revival Antiques is filled with restored lighting fixtures, antique furniture and vintage tiles. Pasadena Antiques & Design is a sizable multi-dealer shop meticulously arranged with fine art and furnishings, pottery, ceramics and other artifacts. T.L. Gurley Antiques may be the smallest of this bunch, but they pack a lot of quality and character into their tightly edited selection of rugs, furniture, art and garden décor.
Pasadena-Themed Souvenirs & Collectibles
The official Visit Pasadena Online Store is your one-stop destination for delightful Pasadena-themed souvenirs. From intricately designed mugs adorned with the iconic Colorado Street Bridge to limited-edition enamel pins showcasing the blooming roses of the Rose Parade, each item is designed and crafted with love and care by local artists.
The first "Threads of Pasadena" line features a collaborative effort with local brand Pasadena CLSC, (pronounced classic), by the grandson of Matthew “Mack” Robinson and great-nephew of Jackie Robinson, Pasadena CLSC. The merchandise line leads with a “Smell the Roses” campaign, with artwork by Dennis Robinson to celebrate the city’s beauty. Items include crew neck sweatshirts, t-shirts, socks, and hats.
