Melanie & Scott
Things To Do
The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
This is one of my favorite local spots! This lush botanical garden is a perfect day time trip during your visit to Pasadena. There are several gardens based on various regions on the planet--my (Melanie's) favorite is the desert garden! Weather can be a little unpredictable in October, so if it's a bit warm during your visit, you can also go to the various art galleries on the grounds There is also a yummy high tea service and coffee shop!
The Gamble House
For those architecture nerds out there, this is the holy grail of Crafstmen architecture, which is had it's start in the Los Angeles/Pasadena area. Definitely worth checking out, and only 10 minutes from the venue!
Rose Bowl Stadium
Go Bruins? Melanie just uses the outside loop for running. But apparently it's really cool and worth the visit! Beyonce performed there!
Descanso Gardens
A smaller botanical garden located about 15 minutes away from the venue. We considered having our wedding here!
Los Angeles County Arboretum
Can you tell we like gardens? This is another wonderful botanical garden in the area, about 15 minutes east of Pasadena in Arcadia, where Scott spent much of his childhood. Beware the legion of somewhat-native peacocks, though.
Downtown Los Angeles
We love our Downtown! There are so many great and historic sights, eats, and shops in Downtown Los Angeles, it is definitely worth the visit if you have time for a day trip! Take the Gold Line light rail train to Union Station for easy public transportation access. We recommend visiting Grand Central Market, Wurstkuche, Cliftons Cafeteria and Philippe's for some iconic dinning. The Lost Bookstore and 82 barcade are some of our favorite hangouts, as well as the MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) or historic Olvera Street for entertainment. If you're doing a walking tour of Downtown, we highly recommend visiting the Disney Concert Hall just to admire the architecture! If you want more suggestions of what to do Downtown, just ask!
Griffith Observatory
This is a great night time event! Go visit the famous observatory and get incredible views of the city! During the day, you can also visit the LA Zoo in Griffith Park.
La Grande Orange Cafe
Great dinner spot! The pizza place, The Luggage Room, adjacent to the restaurant is also delicious!
Europane Bakery + Cafe
A favorite brunch spot for us! It features French pastries and breakfast specialties.
Fiore Market Cafe
Their homemade roasted chicken sandwiches are stuff of legends, and worth the short drive to South Pasadena, which is a favorite hangout spot for us!
Stone Brewing Tap Room - Pasadena
You can drink lots of types of beer in tiny amounts. It's great! Located next to the Del Mar Gold Line light rail station if you don't want to drive home! ;)
Milkfarm
It's a gourmet cheese shop that serves sample and makes you a cheese and charcuterie board that you can eat while drinking wine that they have on tap. AND it's across the street from our venue! What more is there to say?
Disneyland and the beach
Those are always options, too. :)