Where to go in Pasadena

So much to do and see in Pasadena! (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

I enjoy visiting Pasadena often, I have friends who live there but also there is so much to do in the city. One of my favorites is Huntington Gardens (where you can also find signed copies of my book in the gift shop, until stocks last) as well as Norton Simon Museum but also Old Town Pasadena and a few other spots. Read on to plan your time here!

Mexican fare at Anaya is always a win. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

Let's begin with the Huntington. I've visited here multiple times and always enjoy the gardens. Once you enter the gateway, you are in for a treat - I certainly did not expect so many different gardens and galleries housed within. So yes, there is the library portion of the venue that consists of collections and galleries, research and education but then there are all these gardens as you walk along the way. The Japanese and Chinese gardens were clear favorites. Lots of beautiful calming spaces to walk around, enjoy reading, immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the sound of water in the pools…did not imagine all this in there. I enjoyed the rose gardens and the California gardens too. Their event calendar is chock full of tons of interesting stuff coming up and they have some good exhibitions lined up in the next few months as well so planning my visit already. Parking is free but can get busy on weekends and holidays so reservations online is the best way to go. There is an entry fee that's totally worth it if you make a full day out of this. Most folks do. And the afternoon tea is quite lovely as well. 

Another favorite in Pasadena as I mentioned earlier is the Norton Simon Museum. The USC Pacific Asia Museum is a second spot. Go check those links to learn more! Not a museum but a historic home and an architectural venue is The Gamble House. It is considered a masterpiece of the American Arts and Crafts Movement. You'll know why when you visit. They have guided tours you can reserve so definitely do that as they are timed and docent led. Also be aware there is a school nearby so parking can be a challenge and sometimes movement of traffic as well. They have a lovely little book store and as with such venues, host several events for the public through the year. 

The gorgeous Gamble House is an architectural gem inside and out. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

I like checking out bookstores wherever I go and famous in the Pasadena area is Vromans which has been around since the late 1800s. This is a book lovers paradise. Plus I love bookstores that have a  little cafe around so you can buy your books and then go start reading it with a little bevy by your side. This is a maze, do not expect to be in and out in minutes unless you know what you want. Very easy to get distracted and pulled in different directions in here. I didn't even mean to shop but just browsing around had me occupied for a few hours. 

The Beaux Arts style is well and alive at the city hall. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

The Pasadena City Hall is a sight to behold. You can't really miss it if you are in the area. The dome stands tall and can be viewed from a distance. Some city halls have guided tours and such but I'm unaware if this one does. I happened to be in the area on a weekend and decided to stop by. You can walk around freely in the common/open to public areas like the courtyard and the foyer. I found it rather peaceful and found plenty of parking all around. The local library is a short walk from here but last I visited, the space was closed for repairs. Both the city hall and library are historic structures.

The elevator decor as you head to The Cellar. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

A spot I happened upon but is probably well-known among residents of Pasadena is The Cellar. It opens certain days of the week at 6pm-ish, they do not take reservations, and don't be looking for a signboard because there isn't one. It's located on Colorado Blvd and when open, a sandwich board pops up on the street, and folks start lining up in front of what looks like an office building housing several businesses. Staff at the entrance ensure there is enough seating available for your party before you head in. This is a 21+ venue. Walk all the way back to an elevator that takes you to a lower floor and a mystery door behind which is the cellar. A fab spot to relax, enjoy music, wines, conversation, food, and hang around for a bit. 

The pisco sours at Bodegon 69 are it. (Image: Ruksana Hussain)

Of course, there is the question of where is one dining out here? Honestly, there is no dearth of venues so you can have your pick from a number of cuisines. No spot has been a miss but for this post I'll share three: Mi Piace for Italian, Anaya for Mexican, and Bodegon 69 for Peruvian. Mi Piace is right across the street from The Cellar and serves up some fab Italian fare and vino. It does get real busy on weekends so I'd recommend reservations. Anaya offers large portions of Mexican staples and some pretty solid cocktails. You can't miss the location - the decor will draw you in. And Bodegon 69 not only offers amazing Peruvian food but also some darned delicious pisco sours so make a beeline for those. If lomo saltado and arroz chaufa are on your mind, here's the venue for it!

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Author

Ruksana Hussain is the publisher and editor of Traveler and Tourist digital magazine, author of Around the World in Los Angeles, and award-winning journalist and writer at RH Media Consulting. Connect with her on Instagram and Facebook or through the Contact Form.