In the City Hall.
For fans of giant buildings and timeless architecture, Pasadena City Hall is a must. Setting the tone for the rest of the city with its large size, beauty, and exceptional cleanliness, the City Hall building welcomes visitors to Pasadena with large arches, main stones, and majestic domes. Look familiar, but can't put your finger where you've seen it before? This is a duplicated location for Pawnee City Hall on the NBC Parks and Recreation television show.
Braise & Crumble Café
Almost directly from an Instagram post, Braise & Crumble Café is a hidden gem that is very valuable for this trip. Menu items such as short tacos, mac 'n' cheese cubes, and Gorgonzola potato salad make this place a favorite of even the most sophisticated tastes. This cafe offers a trendy atmosphere with a touch of a blend of South and Asian.
Pasadena Playhouse
The Pasadena Playhouse is always in session with beautiful architecture and historical significance for thespians and play-watchers alike. Built in 1924, these stages have provided fame and stage education for figures such as Gene Hackman, Raymond Burr, Dustin Hoffman, and many other stars. With seats 686 in the main theater, each with a perfect view, Pasadena Playhouse is a great place to soak in the show and end the day in beautiful Pasadena.
Mount Eaton Hiking Path
If the museum is not for you, then try going outdoors to the hiking trail which is a branch of Eaton Canyon. With a break that can take you to the Eaton Canyon Falls (or water drops, depending on when in the year you visit), the view at the top of the head of the road allows you to see Pasadena's vast layout. As with most cities, the trail is accessible to dogs, so don't hesitate to bring a four-legged family member for a trip.
Huntington Library
Staying with the artsy locals theme, the Huntington Library is a great place for art and history lovers in the Pasadena area. Doubling as an institution for learning and artistic preservation, this special study center holds more than six million texts and artifacts dating from 1400. The Huntington also offers one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the Los Angeles area, which makes it an ideal place for weddings, so keep an eye on people who are on their knees and try not to get caught in the crossfire of photography.
Old Town Pasadena
With enough places to take more than half your day, Old Pasadena stretches Colorado Boulevard and seeps into the streets that run close together. Famous restaurants, exclusive Pasadena, and many upscale shopping outlets make this expansive outdoor entertainment an extraordinary area to start your exploration day in Pasadena. The downtown area, nicknamed the Old City, has a bar and pub corridor for a 21+ Pasadena audience.
The Colorado Road Bridge
If you drive into town, take time to take the beautiful route. The beautiful Colorado Road Bridge is fun even if you miss the exit to drive on it and stay on the freeway that runs next to it. First opened to the public crossing back in 1913, this very bright bridge is a spotlight for walking around tourists and lovers alike. Pay attention to the approaching car, because this is not a pedestrian-only bridge.