Welcome to Pasadena
A cultural oasis bursting with architectural charm
Celebrated for its historic Old Town district, stunning mountain vistas, and vibrant community festivals, Pasadena real estate blends small-town appeal with the comforts of a vibrant city, serving residents a lifestyle steeped in luxury and exciting activities.
An easily accessible city ten miles from downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena is most notable for hosting the Rose Bowl - America's most famous postseason football game - along with its accompanying Tournament of Roses, earning Pasadena the name, "City of Roses." A premier cultural oasis in the heart of San Gabriel Valley, the city sprawls with eclectic museums, fine restaurants, outdoor recreation opportunities, and excellent schools, making it a hotspot for families and young professionals seeking the sunny SoCal lifestyle without any hustle and bustle.
From craftsman bungalows of architects Henry and Charles Greene from the early 1900s to elegant Spanish revival homes, Gothic houses, and English cottages, Pasadena's rich architectural heritage give the city an enviable aesthetic that makes it among the most significant communities in southern California.
What to Love
- Old Town with striking art deco buildings
- Celebrated shopping and dining spots
- Rose Bowl and the Gamble House
- Exquisite local museums
- Hiking, biking, and equestrian trails at the nature preserve
- Luscious landscapes and plentiful sunshine
Local Lifestyle
A lively, refined city in its own right, neighbors in Pasadena tend to share a common love for the outdoors, vivacious culture, diverse food, and good health, which are the exact bounties served up by this prestigious haven.
A hotspot for students, seasoned life veterans, young families, and professionals seeking the perfect escape from hectic, big-city bustle, Pasadena’s commercial scene, museums, world-class hotels, and educational institutions give it a vibrant, urban sophistication while retaining the intimate suburban feel that draws residents to the city. Basically, you’ve got the best of both worlds! Get ready to relish 300 days of sunshine, luscious landscapes, and easy access to everywhere you need to be.
Pasadena, CA History
The
history of Pasadena, CA stretches back to its early days under Spanish and then Mexican rule. The area was originally part of a Mexican land grant named Rancho el Rincon de San Pascual, established in 1826 and later granted to Manuel Garfias in 1843. By the mid-19th century, it became attractive to settlers from the East due to its fertile land and favorable climate. In 1874, settlers from Indiana established the Indiana Colony at Pasadena, naming it using the Chippewa word for "of the valley." As the city developed, it became known for its lush landscapes and grand estates, fostering a community known for its affluence and cultural sophistication.
Pasadena's growth was marked by its significant architecture and the establishment of cultural institutions. By the late 19th century, it was famous for its luxurious hotels and became a winter resort for wealthy Easterners, setting the stage for annual events like the Tournament of Roses Parade, which started in 1890. The early 20th century saw further development with the addition of notable educational and scientific institutions such as Caltech, making the city a hub for scientific research and cultural activities. Today, Pasadena is celebrated not just for its historical significance but also for its contributions to science, arts, and culture
Arts & Culture in Pasadena
Pasadena, California, is a vibrant hub of arts and culture, offering a rich array of experiences that cater to art lovers, history enthusiasts, and families alike. The city is renowned for its well-established arts institutions and events such as
ArtNight, a biannual event that invites the community to enjoy free access to museums and cultural institutions throughout the city. This event exemplifies Pasadena's commitment to making art accessible and engaging for all residents and visitors.
The city also houses several prestigious museums, each with its unique focus and appeal. The
Norton Simon Museum is celebrated for its remarkable private art collections featuring works from Europe and Asia, including pieces by Picasso and Van Gogh. For those interested in the arts and cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands, the
USC Pacific Asia Museum offers an exclusive glimpse into artistic traditions from these regions. Families with children will find the Kidspace Children's Museum particularly appealing for its interactive and educational exhibits designed to stimulate young minds through play and hands-on learning.
Pasadena also prides itself on its architectural heritage, with the
Gamble House being a prime example of American Arts and Crafts style architecture. This historical home not only serves as a museum but has also been featured in films, showcasing its cultural significance beyond its architectural beauty.
Overall, Pasadena's rich cultural scene is supported by numerous events, museums, and educational programs that reflect the city's diverse community and historical richness, making it a true cultural getaway within Southern California.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
With so much diversity comes a robust scene of assorted culinary trends. No matter the ethnic cuisine you’re craving, there’s a restaurant to meet your needs. Home to three central shopping districts and two malls, there are more than enough retail treasures waiting on these sprawling streets.
Stop into
Union Restaurant for healthy, farm-to-table Italian fare, featuring everything from porchetta to charred octopus, tiramisu, and steak tartare. At
Parkway Grill, you can treat yourself to a scrumptious plate of ginger fried catfish sided with a refreshing martini, or hop by
Alexander’s Steakhouse for a classic fillet mignon, wagyu burger, and shishito peppers. Come with the whole family and order an elegant dinner in the sleek lounge-like setting of
The Royce, where you can order a rack of lamb, crème brulee, or potato puree to be savored in a refined atmosphere.
Things to Do
Sprawling with up-market restaurants, a shopping mall, plenty of nightclubs, shops, and outdoor cafes, there’s no lack of entertaining activities in
Old Town Pasadena, whether you want to stay up all night at a club or catch a flick at the movie theatre before getting a signature fashion piece at one of the boutiques.
Pasadena is rather famous for its architectural wonders, and one of its many iconic buildings is the
Pasadena City Hall. Massive, luxurious, and exhibiting traits of both Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival style architecture, this landmark structure is a popular spot for stunning Instagram shots, dazzling nighttime walks, and memorable wedding photos.
Wear your hat and sunscreen for a scenic hike through the
Eaton Canyon Natural Area, or explore
Caltech’s 124-acre campus to have an insider’s perspective on what makes this world-class institution of multiple Nobel laureates unique!
Notable Facts about Pasadena, CA
- Historical Incorporation: Pasadena was incorporated in 1886 primarily to ban saloons and alcohol sales, reflecting its early residents' preferences for a sober community.
- Rose Parade Origins: Known as the home of the Tournament of Roses Parade, this event began as a way to show off Pasadena’s ideal weather to the rest of the country during winter. It started in 1890 and has never been held on a Sunday, to avoid disrupting church services.
- Architectural Landmarks: Pasadena boasts many architectural treasures, including the Gamble House, an American Arts and Crafts style masterpiece, and the historic Colorado Street Bridge.
- Scientific and Educational Hub: The city is known for its rich scientific and educational environment, hosting institutions like Caltech and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which are central to both academic excellence and groundbreaking research.
- Cheeseburger Innovation: The city claims to be the birthplace of the cheeseburger, which was reportedly first created in 1926 by a local chef adding cheese to a hamburger.
Commute and Accessibility
Pasadena, CA, is well-connected and highly accessible, making it a convenient location for commuters and travelers alike. The city is strategically situated near major highways, including the I-210 (Foothill Freeway) and SR-134 (Ventura Freeway), which provide direct routes to Los Angeles, Glendale, and Burbank. The Gold Line Metro Rail runs through Pasadena, offering a quick and efficient public transportation option for those commuting to Downtown Los Angeles or the broader LA Metro area. For local travel, Pasadena Transit operates multiple bus lines within the city, ensuring residents have access to public transit for short trips. Pasadena is also conveniently close to several airports, with Bob Hope Airport (Burbank) just 17 miles away and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) approximately 30 miles south, offering easy access for domestic and international travel.
Walkability and Bikeability
Pasadena boasts a walkability score of 71 (as of recent reports), reflecting its pedestrian-friendly streets, particularly in areas like Old Pasadena, where sidewalks are wide and well-maintained. Many amenities, including grocery stores, cafes, restaurants, and retail shops, are within walking distance for residents in the central part of the city.
For cyclists, Pasadena has steadily improved its bike-friendly infrastructure, featuring over 50 miles of bike lanes and paths, including dedicated bike routes along major streets like Cordova Street and Arroyo Seco Trail. The city actively promotes cycling as an eco-friendly transportation alternative, and with its relatively mild weather year-round, biking is a popular choice for locals.
Green Spaces and Conservation
Pasadena is home to an impressive array of green spaces and parks, offering residents plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The iconic Arroyo Seco, a natural canyon and stream, features trails for hiking, running, and horseback riding. Central Park and Memorial Park in Old Pasadena provide scenic spots for picnics, play, and community events.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Eaton Canyon Natural Area, a 190-acre park with hiking trails and a stunning seasonal waterfall. Pasadena is also deeply committed to conservation efforts, with organizations like the Arroyo Seco Foundation working to preserve and enhance the natural beauty and ecological health of the Arroyo Seco watershed.
Sustainability Initiatives
Pasadena is at the forefront of sustainability, with numerous programs aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and promoting environmentally conscious living. The city has adopted a Climate Action Plan, targeting reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and increasing renewable energy use. Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) supports several green initiatives, such as rebates for energy-efficient appliances, solar panel installations, and water conservation programs to combat drought conditions.
Additionally, the city encourages residents to participate in waste reduction through curbside recycling and composting programs. Pasadena also prioritizes sustainable urban planning, integrating green building standards into new developments to ensure long-term environmental health and livability.
Schools
Pasadena prides itself on the high-quality education provided by its award-winning schools, both public and private. Highly rated institutions are one of the many reasons families gravitate to this neighborhood. Some of its coveted educational institutions include:
Learn about nearby neighborhoods:
Explore properties
