Millionaire's Row: Pasadena's Storied South Orange Grove Boulevard
Experience Pasadena's Golden Age on Millionaire's Row, where historic mansions and stunning architecture recall a bygone era of wealth and elegance.
Pasadena's Millionaire's Row, located on South Orange Grove Boulevard, stands as a testament to the city's opulent past. During the early 1900s, industrialists, entrepreneurs, and bankers flocked to Pasadena to escape harsh winters, establishing grand estates that earned the boulevard its nickname. The area boasts diverse architectural styles, including Craftsman, Mediterranean Revival, and Colonial Revival, reflecting the tastes and trends of the era. Notable architects designed these homes, contributing to the area's reputation for architectural excellence. Many homes feature intricate details and manicured gardens, offering a glimpse into the affluent lifestyle of the original residents. Today, Millionaire's Row remains a prestigious residential area, blending historic homes with upscale condominiums. Some estates have been repurposed, such as the Hulett C. Merritt Mansion, which became part of Ambassador College. The Tournament House, formerly the Wrigley Mansion, serves as the headquarters for the annual Rose Parade, further connecting Millionaire's Row to Pasadena's traditions. Visitors can stroll along South Orange Grove Boulevard, admiring the well-preserved mansions and soaking in the atmosphere of Pasadena's Golden Age. While many of the original estates have been lost to time, the remaining homes and gardens offer a glimpse into the past.
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the architecture and manicured gardens.
- Consider a guided tour to learn more about the history of the mansions (if available).
A brief summary to Millionaire's Row
- 162-102 S Orange Grove Blvd, Pasadena, South Arroyo, California, 91105, US
Getting There
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Walking
From Pasadena's Old Town, head south on S Fair Oaks Ave toward E Colorado Blvd. Turn left onto E Colorado Blvd and walk for about 0.5 miles until you reach S Orange Grove Blvd. Turn right on S Orange Grove Blvd and continue walking for another 0.3 miles. Millionaire's Row is located between 162-102 S Orange Grove Blvd.
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Public Transport
From Pasadena City Hall, find the nearest bus stop on Colorado Blvd. Take the Metro Bus Line 180 towards the Pasadena Gold Line Station. After a short ride (about 5 minutes), get off at the stop at S Orange Grove Blvd. Walk south on S Orange Grove Blvd for about 0.2 miles to reach Millionaire's Row, located at 162-102 S Orange Grove Blvd. A single ride on Pasadena Transit is $0.75. TAP cards can be purchased for $2 at Metro Rail stations. Reduced fares are available for youths, seniors, and the disabled.
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Driving
Millionaire's Row is located on South Orange Grove Boulevard in Pasadena. From the 210 Freeway, exit on Fair Oaks Avenue and head south. Turn left onto California Boulevard, then right onto South Orange Grove Boulevard. Parking can be found on the street, but availability may be limited. Consider using a ride-sharing service or taxi. Taxi fares in Pasadena have a base fare of $3.10, and $4.35 per mile. Expect to pay around $10-15 for a short taxi ride within Pasadena.
