Discover Old World Charm and Culture in Pasadena, CA
One of the more eclectic cities in California, Pasadena has been named the crown jewel of the area because of its abundance of museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.
Most people know about Pasadena as the host of the Tournament of Roses but you’ll find many interesting things to do and places to explore beyond its sports venues. If you are in town for the famous tournament, you’ll get to celebrate the new year with the parades and floats that make their way through Downtown Pasadena every year. The Rose Bowl Football Game is also held here and is a must-see event for any sports lover.
Thousands of music lovers flock here to attend the Make Music Pasadena Festival, an annual summer event that features reggae, jazz, afro beats, and other genres of music. It’s set up across six stages in Downtown Pasadena so you can venture out to the many restaurants and bars before and after the music sets.
It will take you at least a few days to explore all of the museums and cultural attractions littered around the downtown area. You can see the collection of European and Asian art at the Norton Simon Museumo r head to the Gamble House to see the unique architectural residence. The Pasadena Museum of California Art is a must-visit destination for art and design lovers.
Make a trip out to the USC Pacific Asia Museum to visit the art gallery and wander through the research library. The Old Pasadena shopping and dining district features dozens of art deco buildings and has an old world charm.