Pasadena Things to Do Tips by pigletsmom Top 5 Page for this destination

The Norton Simon Museum Norton Simon Museum Review

This museum has a beautiful intimate collection with a lovely japanese garden in back. They have a large collection of Rodin sculptures, plus a good collection
of impressionists and post impressionists. They have a very impressive Renaissance wing. My favorite painting in the Rennaissance exhibit is the flight into Egypt by Jacopo Bassano. Vivid colors and energetic composition make this an interesting painting. Look for it when you visit.

Address: 411 Colorado Blvd.

Directions: Near the corner of Colorado and Orange Grove Ave.

Cool Buildings on Colorado Ave. Architecture / Gardens Review

Pay attention to the details of the buildings on Colorado Ave. It's the old town of Pasadena, and some of the friezes, ironwork and tiles on these buildings are very beautiful. The buildings are done in art deco, beaux arts and manueline
style.

Address: All along Colorado Ave.

Directions: Old Town Pasadena

The Ultimate Bungalow Architecture / Gardens Review

Designed in 1908 by the architectural firm of Greene & Greene, the Japanese inspired Gamble House is the finest preserved example of the American Arts & Crafts movement. Impeccable design and craftsmanship make this house a "must see" in Pasadena. Exotic woods, unique carvings, and rare art glass throughout this house make it a memorable experience. The enitre home is a work of art. The house is filled with the original furnishings designed by the Greenes. The house is on the National Historic Register. The house offers a fantastic bookstore set up in the lovely garage. Fabulous books and gifts for anyone who loves art, style, or architecture.

Docent tours of the Gamble house are available from noon - 3pm
Wednesday through Sunday.

Address: #4 Westmoreland Place

Directions: Past Colorado Ave just off Orange Grove Ave. on Westmoreland.

Website: http://www.gamblehouse.org/index.html

The Castle Green Architecture / Gardens Review

One of Pasadena's most unique buildings, the Castle Green was built in 1898 as the annex for the famous Hotel Green. The Castle Green is an imposing seven story Moorish Colonial and Spanish style building sitting next to Central Park in Old Pasadena at Raymond and Green Street. The apartments are now condominiums and for sale. The building is open ot the public once a year in December. Take a walk around the structure, it is truly an amazing building.

Website: http://www.castlegreen.com/

The Huntington Library & Gardens Architecture / Gardens Review

The Huntington is an oasis of art and culture set amidst 150 acres of breathtaking gardens. The Library features works from British and American history and literature, including an original Gutenberg Bible and Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Three art galleries showcase 18th and 19th Century British and French masterpieces, including the "Blue Boy" and "Pinkie." Fifteen gardens feature 14,000 species of plants. Drive around the neighborhood of San Marino for a nice look at some lovely old mansions.

Open:
Tuesday - Friday, noon -
4:30 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-
4:30 p.m.
Summer Hours: Tuesday -
Sunday, 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Phone: (626) 405-2100

Website: http://www.huntington.org

Olo Town Pasadena

Stroll Colorado Ave. for some colorful people watching, plus some attractive shops and restaurants. Park north of Colorado on Union for cheaper parking and restaurants.

Address: On Colorado Ave.

The Wrigley Mansion Rose Bowl Review

This Italian Renaissance revival mansion, once owned by chewing gum manufacturer William Wrigley, Jr., was built between 1908 and 1914 and today serves as the headquarters for the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association. A two-year restoration was recently completed on the house.

Tours are offered February - August on Thursdays from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Gardens are open daily.

Address: 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

Phone: (626) 449-4100

Website: http://www.tournamentofroses.com