Old Town Pasadena is one of the most walkable, vibrant destinations in all of Southern California. Spanning 22 blocks along Colorado Boulevard and its surrounding streets, this nationally registered historic district blends turn-of-the-century architecture with a modern mix of chef-driven restaurants, independent boutiques, craft cocktail bars, and world-class cultural institutions.
Whether you are planning a Saturday afternoon shopping trip, a romantic dinner for two, or a full weekend of exploring, this guide covers every detail you need. Every business name, address, and fact in this guide has been verified through current sources.
The Story Behind Old Town Pasadena
Old Pasadena was the original commercial center of the city, expanding rapidly in the late 1800s and early 1900s. For decades, it served as the thriving downtown core of one of Southern California's most prestigious cities. But by the 1960s, the district had fallen into serious decline. Businesses migrated east along Colorado Boulevard, and the once-proud downtown was left with boarded-up storefronts, a reputation for crime, and a vacancy rate that climbed above 70%.
The turnaround began in 1975, when the City of Pasadena passed a Historic Preservation Ordinance that officially protected the area's architectural heritage. One year later, the nonprofit Old Pasadena Management District (OPMD) was formed to lead revitalization efforts. Throughout the 1980s, buildings were seismically retrofitted, sidewalks were widened, and new businesses began moving in.
The transformation reached a milestone in 1992 with the completion of One Colorado, a mixed-use development that turned an entire historic block into an open-air shopping and dining destination. Since then, Old Pasadena has attracted more than $900 million in private investment. Over 150 historic buildings have been seismically reinforced. The district now hosts 333 businesses, with 85% of them being independent, one-of-a-kind operations.
Today, Old Town Pasadena generates an estimated $375 million in annual sales and draws millions of visitors each year. It is also the backdrop for the annual Rose Parade, which travels east along Colorado Boulevard every January 1st.
Best Restaurants in Old Town Pasadena
With more than 100 restaurants spread across the district, Old Pasadena has options for every palate and price range. Here are the standout picks, organized by category.
Fine Dining and Upscale Experiences
Bone Kettle
A family-run restaurant by the Tjahyadi brothers, known for its signature 36-hour bone broth made with beef bones, ginger, garlic, and dried spices. The menu draws from Indonesian, Malaysian, Singaporean, and Filipino cuisines. This is a tipless restaurant with a 20% service charge on dine-in orders. Reservations recommended.
67 N Raymond Ave | (626) 765-3788Maestro
Elevated Mexican cuisine featuring braised bone-in lamb shank, handmade tortillas, and a zesty citrus summer salad with guava vinaigrette. The cocktail program highlights Mexican spirits including rare mezcals and aged tequilas.
Colorado Blvd, Old PasadenaMi Piace
A neighborhood institution for over 25 years, Mi Piace serves Italian cuisine with a New York accent. Designed by Tony Chi, the interior features a stainless steel bar, illuminated tables, and red leather seating. The kitchen, bakery, and martini lounge are all award-winning.
25 E Colorado Blvd | (626) 795-3131Mediterranean and European
Cafe Santorini
Open since 1993, Cafe Santorini is consistently rated one of the best outdoor dining spots in Pasadena. The rooftop patio is perfect for warm evenings. Menu highlights include grilled calamari ($19), Moroccan lamb shank ($41), and branzino ($42). Greek, Spanish, Italian, French, Moroccan, and Lebanese flavors are all represented.
64 W Union St | (626) 564-4200Dos Besos
A cozy Spanish spot featuring tapas made with jamon iberico, Manchego cheese, and pan con tomate. Hearty entrees include Mediterranean sea bass baked in rock salt and seafood paella for two.
Old PasadenaEntre Nous
A French bistro by Jean-Christophe Febbrari and Mathias Wakrat, featuring classic dishes and flavors inspired by Provence. The wine list leans heavily toward French and Mediterranean producers.
Old PasadenaCasual and Quick Bites
Beyond the sit-down restaurants, Old Pasadena also has options for faster meals. Beard Papa's (inside One Colorado) serves fresh cream puffs. The district has numerous cafes for coffee and light bites throughout the day. Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery combines a live-fire kitchen with an artisan cheese shop for a unique casual dining experience.
Bars and Nightlife
Old Pasadena's bar scene ranges from craft whiskey dens to British pubs and rooftop lounges. Most venues stay open until midnight or later on weekends.
The Blind Donkey
Old Pasadena's premier whiskey destination with 65+ whiskeys in stock, a curated craft spirits lineup, and a solid draft beer list. The dark, intimate interior is ideal for a slow evening. Pub trivia nights add a competitive edge.
53 E Union StLucky Baldwin's Pub
An authentic British pub with over 60 beers on tap, including Belgian imports and local Craftsman Brewing (a Pasadena-based brewery). Serves traditional English breakfast through late-night. Open 9 AM to 1:30 AM daily.
17 S Raymond AveOld Towne Pub
Operating since 1973, this is Old Pasadena's go-to for live music. Bands play classic rock, hard rock, reggae, punk, and more throughout the week. Late-night hours make it a popular last stop.
Old PasadenaBarney's Beanery
Opened its Pasadena location in 2006 on Colorado Boulevard. Rock and roll decor, dozens of beers on tap, plentiful TVs for game day, and a full pub food menu. One of the more lively spots on weekend nights.
Colorado Blvd, Old PasadenaCongregation Ale House
A church-themed craft beer bar with rotating taps and a relaxed atmosphere. Happy Hour runs all day on Mondays. The eclectic decor and strong tap list make it a favorite among beer enthusiasts.
Old PasadenaThe Cellar
A cozy, intimate wine bar tucked inside Old Town. Perfect for date nights and casual wine drinkers alike. The by-the-glass selection rotates regularly and the staff can guide you through lesser-known varietals.
Old PasadenaLive Music Tip
For live jazz, check out Hawg Heaven BBQ and Gastropub, which hosts jazz dinner shows Wednesday through Sunday evenings and a Sunday jazz brunch from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Shopping: Boutiques and Retail
Old Pasadena has more than 200 shops spread across 22 blocks. Over 85% are independent businesses, but you will also find major national retailers. The mix is what makes this district special: high-end jewelers sit next to vintage sneaker shops, and global chains share walls with one-of-a-kind boutiques.
One Colorado
The centerpiece of Old Pasadena retail is One Colorado, an open-air shopping center that fills an entire city block. Built on the site of the historic 1992 revitalization, it features more than 25 stores arranged around a European-style courtyard. Tenants include Anthropologie, Patagonia, Sephora, J.Crew, Eileen Fisher, Dr. Martens, Blick Art Materials, Gorjana, and Brilliant Earth.
National Retailers
Throughout the broader district, you will find Tiffany and Co., the Apple Store, Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn, the Container Store, and Banana Republic. These are concentrated along Colorado Boulevard between Pasadena Avenue and Raymond Avenue.
Local and Independent Shops
Neo
An underground boutique specializing in sneakers, hats, vintage clothing, and local Los Angeles apparel brands. A favorite for collectors and streetwear fans.
2nd Street
Curated secondhand clothing in premium condition. Each piece is hand-selected for quality and style. A great option for sustainable fashion finds.
Old Pasadena Pharmacy and Marketplace
A full-service retail pharmacy that doubles as a gift and sundries boutique. One of the more unique concepts in the district, blending neighborhood utility with curated retail.
Where to Park (and What It Costs)
Parking in Old Pasadena is manageable once you know the system. The district has multiple city-owned parking structures and metered street parking throughout.
Current Parking Rates
- Heart of Old Pasadena: $1.25 per hour at meters
- South of Dayton Street (between Pasadena Ave and Raymond Ave): $0.75 per hour
- City parking garages: Available for longer stays with daily maximums
- Meter-free holidays: New Year's Day, MLK Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day
Parking Tips from a Local
The Schoolhouse Block Parking Structure (33 E Green St) and other city garages are scattered throughout the district. For the best rates, park south of Dayton Street where meters are $0.75 per hour instead of $1.25.
Download the ParkMobile app before you arrive. It lets you pay for metered parking, extend your session remotely from your phone, and receive reminder notifications before your time expires. This alone saves most visitors from parking tickets.
If you want to skip driving entirely, the Metro L Line (formerly the Gold Line) stops at Memorial Park station, which is a short walk to the heart of Old Pasadena. This is especially useful on busy weekend evenings or during events.
The Insider Walking Route
This self-guided route covers the highlights of Old Pasadena in roughly 2 to 3 hours, including stops. Start mid-morning on a weekday for the fewest crowds.
Norton Simon Museum (411 W Colorado Blvd)
Start at the western edge. Even if you do not go inside, the sculpture garden is worth a look. The museum houses one of the finest collections of European, American, and Asian art spanning 2,000+ years.
Colorado Boulevard, heading east
Walk east along Colorado, the main spine of Old Pasadena and the Rose Parade route. Browse the Apple Store, Tiffany and Co., and other national retailers along the way.
One Colorado Courtyard
Turn into One Colorado for the open-air shopping center. The courtyard, modeled after a European town square, is a good place to sit and recharge. Grab coffee at one of the cafes.
Raymond Avenue, heading south
Walk south on Raymond Ave past Bone Kettle and the local boutiques. This stretch has some of the best independent restaurants in the district.
Union Street
Turn onto Union Street to visit Cafe Santorini (rooftop patio dining) and The Blind Donkey (whiskey bar). This block is where dining and nightlife converge.
South Fair Oaks Avenue
Loop back north via Fair Oaks. Stop at any of the independent shops that catch your eye. End with dinner at one of the restaurants you passed earlier.
Annual Events Calendar
Old Pasadena hosts a rotating schedule of events throughout the year. Here are the major ones worth planning around.
| Event | When | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rose Parade | January 1st | The 5.5-mile parade route travels east along Colorado Blvd through Old Pasadena. Starts at 8:00 AM. Expect major road closures and crowds. |
| ArtNight Pasadena (Spring) | March (biannual) | Free admission to museums and cultural venues from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. Participating venues include Norton Simon Museum, Armory Center for the Arts, and more. Free shuttle between locations. |
| Easter Egg Hunt | Late March / Early April | Old Pasadena hosts its annual Easter Egg Hunt across multiple locations in the district. Family-friendly, free to attend. |
| ArtNight Pasadena (Fall) | October (biannual) | The fall edition of ArtNight brings the same free museum access and live entertainment. A great excuse to explore the district's cultural side. |
| Holiday Season | November - December | Holiday lights, seasonal decorations, and extended shopping hours throughout the district. Special events and pop-up markets are common. |
ArtNight Hotline
For the latest ArtNight Pasadena schedule and participating venues, call (626) 744-7887 or visit ArtNightPasadena.org.
Nearby Attractions and Museums
Norton Simon Museum
Located at 411 W. Colorado Blvd, right at the western edge of Old Pasadena. The permanent collection spans 2,000+ years of Western and Asian art, including European masterpieces, sculpture, photography, and works on paper. The recently renovated Sculpture Garden is free to enjoy. The Norton Simon Theater hosts film programs, lectures, and performances year-round.
Pasadena Playhouse
Founded in 1917 by Gilmor Brown, the Pasadena Playhouse was voted the official state theater of California in 1937. It became internationally known as a star factory for actors, directors, and playwrights. Today it continues to produce award-winning theatrical productions in an intimate setting.
USC Pacific Asia Museum
Located on Los Robles Blvd in the heart of Old Town. The building was constructed in 1926 to resemble a Chinese Imperial Palace with traditional gardens. Founded in 1971, the museum focuses on art and culture from Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Armory Center for the Arts
A community arts center offering exhibitions, studio art classes, and family workshops. A regular participant in ArtNight Pasadena with special programming including dance, music, and hands-on art activities.
Other notable nearby attractions include Kidspace Children's Museum, the Tournament of Roses House, and the Wrigley Gardens. All are within a short drive or bus ride from Old Pasadena.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (Tuesday through Thursday) are the sweet spot for a relaxed visit. Parking is easier to find, restaurants are less crowded, and you can browse shops without competing for sidewalk space. Most stores open by 10:00 or 11:00 AM.
Friday and Saturday evenings are the best times for nightlife and dining. Restaurants fill up starting around 6:30 PM, so make reservations if you have a specific spot in mind. Bars pick up around 8:00 PM and stay busy until closing.
Sunday mornings offer a quieter alternative. Bone Kettle's weekend brunch (10:00 AM to 2:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays) and Lucky Baldwin's full English breakfast (starting at 9:00 AM) are both strong options.
Avoid January 1st unless you are attending the Rose Parade. Colorado Boulevard is closed to traffic, parking is extremely limited, and the crowds can be overwhelming.
Summer evenings are ideal for rooftop dining at Cafe Santorini and outdoor seating throughout the district. Temperatures in Pasadena are typically 5 to 10 degrees warmer than coastal LA, so spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons for walking.
Ready to Call Pasadena Home?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I park in Old Town Pasadena?
Old Town Pasadena has multiple city-owned parking structures throughout the district. Metered rates in the heart of Old Pasadena run $1.25 per hour. South of Dayton Street between Pasadena and Raymond Avenues, rates drop to $0.75 per hour. Street meters are not enforced on nine holidays including New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Download the ParkMobile app to extend your session remotely.
What are the best restaurants in Old Town Pasadena?
Old Town Pasadena has over 100 restaurants across 22 blocks. Top picks include Bone Kettle (Southeast Asian, 36-hour bone broth), Cafe Santorini (Mediterranean with rooftop patio), Mi Piace (upscale Italian), Maestro (upscale Mexican), and Dos Besos (Spanish tapas). The district offers everything from chef-driven fine dining to casual cafes.
Is Old Town Pasadena walkable?
Yes. Old Town Pasadena spans 22 walkable blocks with wide sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly streets. Colorado Boulevard is the main east-west corridor, and most shops, restaurants, and attractions are within a comfortable 15-minute walk of each other. The district is also accessible via the Metro L Line (Gold Line) at the Memorial Park station.
What events happen in Old Town Pasadena?
Old Town Pasadena hosts events year-round. ArtNight Pasadena occurs twice per year (spring and fall), offering free admission to museums and cultural venues from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. The Rose Parade runs along Colorado Boulevard every January 1st. Other popular events include the Old Pasadena Easter Egg Hunt, summer concerts, and holiday celebrations throughout December.
What is the history of Old Town Pasadena?
Old Pasadena was the city's original commercial district in the late 1800s. By the 1960s, the area had fallen into disrepair with a 70% vacancy rate. In 1975, the city passed a Historic Preservation Ordinance, and in 1976 the Old Pasadena Management District was formed. Revitalization throughout the 1980s culminated with the One Colorado development in 1992. The district has since attracted over $900 million in private investment and now hosts 333 businesses.
When is the best time to visit Old Town Pasadena?
Weekday afternoons (Tuesday through Thursday) offer the easiest parking and fewest crowds. Weekend evenings from Friday through Sunday are the liveliest for dining and nightlife but expect heavier foot traffic. Summer evenings are ideal for rooftop dining. Avoid the area on Rose Parade day (January 1st) unless you are attending the parade.
What shopping can I find in Old Town Pasadena?
Old Town Pasadena offers more than 200 shops across 22 blocks. Over 85% of businesses are independent. You will find national retailers like Tiffany and Co., Apple, Patagonia, and Anthropologie alongside local boutiques like Neo (sneakers and vintage apparel) and specialty gift shops. One Colorado is an open-air shopping center at the heart of the district.
What museums and attractions are near Old Town Pasadena?
The Norton Simon Museum is at the western edge of Old Pasadena at 411 W. Colorado Blvd, housing a world-class collection of European, American, and Asian art. The USC Pacific Asia Museum is on Los Robles Blvd in Old Town. The Pasadena Playhouse (California's official state theater) and the Armory Center for the Arts are both within walking distance.
