Santa Clarita has its Old Town Newhall and Pasadena has its Old Pasadena, known by the locals as “Old Pas.”
When you’re looking for an “adventure” close to home, a visit to Old Pasadena can offer an exciting change of pace.
Explore historic architecture, shopping and dining and see landmarks like nearby Pasadena City Hall.
The area is known for its restored buildings, trendy shops, diverse restaurants with outdoor seating and a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Following its founding in 1874 as an agricultural cooperative for orange growers, the City of Pasadena incorporated in 1886.
The community adopted the name Pasadena, derived from the Ojibwa (Chippewa) word meaning “of the valley.”
The heartbeat of Old Pasadena is roughly defined by Colorado Boulevard and Fair Oaks Avenue, and its boundaries are officially set from Holly Street to Green Street between Fair Oaks Avenue and Arroyo Parkway.
If there is a downside to visiting Old Pasadena, it might be the parking. There is little to no “free” parking. On-street metered parking costs up to $1.25 per hour in the heart of the district and $1 per hour in nearby garages. Paid street parking and garage rates can reach a daily maximum of $12.
Architecture
With 22 blocks designated as a National Register Historic District, Old Pasadena abounds with impeccably restored late 19th and early 20th-century architecture.
One Colorado
41 Hugus Alley 91103; www.onecolorado.com
The restored buildings at One Colorado are home to more than 30 shops and restaurants. In 1990 the area, which included 17 Victorian era homes, began its transformation into a shopping mecca, One Colorado.
The One Colorado Courtyard, designed in the tradition of European town squares, is one of Old Pasadena’s public gathering spaces, offering regularly scheduled outdoor film screenings, live music, art markets, children’s programs and site-specific art installations.
Castle Green
99 S Raymond Ave. 91105
This historic building with Moorish, Spanish and Victorian styles was originally built as a luxury hotel in 1898 and now serves as a residential condominium complex and event venue. Its film appearances include “The Sting,” “Last Samurai,” “Babylon” and many others.
Pasadena City Hall
100 Garfield Ave. 91101
Built in 1927 with Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival architectural styles. It is a significant architectural example of the City Beautiful movement of the 1920s.
Colorado Street Bridge
504 W Colorado Blvd. 91105
This 1913 historic concrete Beaux-Arts bridge is known for its elegant arches.
Gamble House
4 Westmoreland Place, 91103; gamblehouse.org
The Gamble House. built in 1908. is an internationally recognized masterpiece of the American Arts and Crafts movement. Built for David and Mary Gamble of the Procter and Gamble Company, the house is the most complete and original example of the work of architects Charles and Henry Greene. Tours available.
Millard House
645 Prospect Crescent 91103
A historic textile block house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1923. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. No tours, it is privately owned.
Entertainment
Old Town Pasadena offers a variety of entertainment options in the district, or close by, including a speakeasy where you need to have the password to enter.
The Ice House
24 N Mentor Ave. 91106; theicehouse.com
As the oldest comedy club in the nation, the Ice House Comedy Pasadena, founded in 1960, recently saw a renovation under new ownership. The kings and queens of comedy have performed here including: Robin Williams, Lily Tomlin, Bob Newhart, George Carlin, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Billy Crystal, Steve Martin and Kathy Griffin, to name only a few.
The Neon Retro Arcade
28 South Raymond Ave., 91105; neonretroarcade.com
The arcade is an old-school arcade with games that journey back to the 80s and 90s. Play more than 50 “vintage” games that will entertain all ages.
The Speakeasy
25 N. Raymond Ave., 91103; speakeasypasadena.com
This is a dark cocktail lounge that will take you back to the 1920s. Entry requires a password obtained via email or phone.
IPIC Pasadena
42 Miller Alley, 91103; www.ipic.com/pasadena-ca/location
Enjoy the latest films and recline in the privacy of custom-designed pods, dine in the dark, enjoy the latest films and savor a chef-driven theater menu with craft drink offerings.
Dining
There are more than 100 restaurants located in Old Pasadena, so it truly is a destination that has “something for everyone.”
Maestro
110 E. Union St., 91103; www.maestropasadena.com
Enjoy modern Mexican dining in a plush setting, it features an extensive mezcal list.
True Food Kitchen
168 W. Colorado Blvd., 91105; www.truefoodkitchen.com
Specializes in ultra-healthy fare with dog-friendly dining.
Osawa
77 N. Raymond Ave., 91103; www.theosawa.com
For sushi and shabu shabu lovers with meticulously prepared Japanese cuisine and artful presentations.
Fishwives
88 N. Fair Oaks Ave., 91103; www.fishwives.com
The fruits of the sea are the star of the show at this New England-inspired eatery.
Russell’s
30 N. Fair Oaks Ave., One Colorado 91103
Opened in 1930 by Frank Gale, Russell’s offers charming red barstool seating and wooden booths with a sense of grandeur. The restaurant is renowned for its “famous” hamburgers and breakfasts served until 4 p.m.
Mi Piace Italian Kitchen
25 E. Colorado Blvd., 91105; www.mipiace.com
An Old Pasadena favorite, this restaurant has been pleasing palates for 30 years.
Barney’s Beanery
99 E. Colorado Blvd., 91105; www.barneysbeanery.com
A Route 66 Roadhouse, it is a great place to watch a game with 40 craft beers on draft.
