Old Pasadena, San Gabriel Valley Travel Guide

4.6 (1422)

Explore the historic charm of Old Pasadena: Where Victorian architecture meets modern shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant Southern California setting.

Old Pasadena, the city's original commercial center, blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. This revitalized district features Victorian and early 20th-century architecture, offering a unique experience with its blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

A brief summary to Old Pasadena

23 E Colorado Blvd Ste 200, Pasadena, Old Pasadena, California, 91105, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Pasadena.

Explore the hidden alleyways and courtyards off Colorado Boulevard for unique shops and restaurants.
Take advantage of the Park & Walk garages for affordable parking, especially during peak hours.
Visit Central Park and Memorial Park for green spaces and outdoor events.
Check out the Pasadena Heritage website for walking tours and information on the area's architecture.

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Explore Old Pasadena on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Old Pasadena, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Del Mar Metro Station, walk north on Raymond Avenue towards Colorado Boulevard. Turn right onto Colorado Boulevard, and walk east for several blocks. Old Pasadena will be on your left and right. This is a free and easy way to access Old Pasadena.
Public Transport

Pasadena Transit offers several bus routes that stop within Old Pasadena. From anywhere in Pasadena, take the Pasadena Transit bus to the nearest stop on Colorado Boulevard in Old Pasadena. The fare is $0.75. Be sure to have a TAP card for easy boarding.
Taxi/Ride-share

From anywhere in Pasadena, a taxi or ride-share service like Uber or Lyft can drop you off directly in Old Pasadena. The typical cost from other areas in Pasadena ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the distance and demand.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Old Pasadena and utilize one of the many public parking garages. Three centrally located 'Park & Walk' garages (De Lacey, Marriott, and Schoolhouse) offer $1 for the first 2 hours, then $2 per hour, with a $12 daily maximum. Metered street parking is also available at $1.25 per hour in the heart of Old Pasadena.

Discover more about Old Pasadena

Old Pasadena, often called Old Town Pasadena, is a captivating blend of history and contemporary culture. Founded in 1874, Pasadena quickly became a hub for agriculture and commerce, with its heart at the intersection of Fair Oaks Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. The area thrived, attracting wealthy visitors with its mild climate and opportunities, earning Pasadena the nickname "Athens of the West" due to its concentration of scientific and research institutions.However, by the late 1960s, Old Pasadena faced decline, becoming outdated and neglected. A revitalization effort began in the 1970s, capitalizing on the area's architectural history and community. Today, Old Pasadena is a vibrant district showcasing its heritage through restored brick facades, historic streets, and hidden alleyways.Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including the Castle Green, a nationally registered historic monument, and Central Park, a popular walking area. Old Pasadena is also known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife, with a mix of national chains and independent retailers along Colorado Boulevard and Green Street. The district hosts numerous events, including farmers' markets and arts and crafts fairs.