Things To Do
Norton Simon Museum
A collection of European works, from the Renaissance to the 20th century, originally acquired by billionaire industrialist, Norton Simon. The size is manageable for a quick post-brunch walk-through — and the curvilinear building, originally designed in the late ’60s by architects Thornton Ladd and John Kelsey, with a renovation by Frank Gehry in the late ’90s, is gorgeous.
The Gamble House
An outstanding example of American Arts and Crafts style architecture. The house and furnishings were designed by architects Charles and Henry Greene in 1908 for David and Mary Gamble of the Procter & Gamble Company.
Old Pasadena
The eclectic, historic district spans 22 blocks and features more than 300 businesses. Visitors can find premiere shopping, world-class dining, entertainment and activities for all ages, convenient parking, and pedestrian-friendly streets and historic alleys that are perfect for meandering and discovering the authentic character of Old Pasadena. Visit the Old Pasadena website to print a walking map.
The Pasadena Playhouse
The historic Pasadena Playhouse is the State Theater of California. Founded by Gilmore Brown over 100 years ago, it is one of the most prolific theaters in American history. It is located in the heart of Pasadena. Visit the playhouse website for information on scheduling a tour or to purchase show tickets. Ann, the uplifting tribute to the legendary Texas Governor Ann Richards will be playing on the main stage May 27 thru June 28.
The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington, is a collections-based educational and research institution. The library contains a substantial collection of rare books and manuscripts concentrated in the fields of British and American history, literature, art, and the history of science. In addition to the library, the institution houses an extensive art collection with a focus on 18th- and 19th-century European art, which includes the famous Blue Boy and Pinkie, and 17th- to mid-20th-century American art . The property also includes approximately 120 acres of specialized botanical landscaped gardens, most notably the "Japanese Garden", the "Desert Garden", and the "Chinese Garden" (Liu Fang Yuan).
Eaton Canyon Falls Trail
A relatively easy, 3.5 mile hike to a 40-foot waterfall with views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Santa Monica Mountains. You are likely to see hikers in bathing suits on a warm day. Begin up Eaton Canyon Trail from Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park and Nature Center, which is located just off Altadena Drive.
Descanso Gardens
Internationally renowned botanical collections and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays. Check out the Rose Garden.
San Gabriel Mission
Founded in 1771, Mission San Gabriel Archangel, formed the foundation for the diverse and rich communities that now make up the Los Angeles region. The Mission San Gabriel was the fourth of the 21 California Missions and was known as the "Pride of the California Missions." The Mission and museum are open to visitors. Please note: The Mission Church is not available on Saturdays during baptisms and weddings or during Sunday morning mass.