Colorado Boulevard Route 66 - Photo from my art residency at the Petrified Forest National Park in June of 2017.
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Colorado Boulevard Route 66

4.6
·491k reviews·Pasadena, United States

A legendary stretch of Route 66 and Pasadena's vibrant main street, famous for its historic landmarks, murals, and the Rose Parade.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere and events

CrowdMedium
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Colorado Boulevard Route 66 - Photo from my art residency at the Petrified Forest National Park in June of 2017.

Colorado Boulevard Route 66

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere and events

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary stretch of Route 66 and Pasadena's vibrant main street, famous for its historic landmarks, murals, and the Rose Parade.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Colorado Boulevard is a living piece of history, offering a vibrant glimpse into Route 66's enduring legacy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Historic Route

Explore Colorado Boulevard on foot to discover its many shops, eateries, and historic markers. :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check for Events

Pasadena hosts events like the Rose Parade; check schedules for a vibrant experience. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Andy's Coffee Shop

Historic Andy's Coffee Shop

Colorado Boulevard

Step back in time at this classic diner, a beloved spot on historic Route 66. Enjoy a meal while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere.

TikTok
Greetings Tour Mural

Greetings Tour Mural

Colorado Boulevard and Arroyo Parkway

A vibrant mural celebrating Pasadena's heritage, from orange groves to the Rose Bowl. A colorful photo opportunity on Route 66.

Instagram
Taco Social (Historic Building)

Taco Social (Historic Building)

Colorado Boulevard, Eagle Rock

Dine in a former auto repair shop, now a stylish restaurant. This building is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument on old Route 66.

Instagram
Foothill Boulevard Milestone

Foothill Boulevard Milestone

Colorado & Holliston, Pasadena

A small but significant landmark predating Route 66, marking historic highways. A unique piece of local history.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Historic Route 66 Vibe

Colorado Boulevard is a legendary stretch of Route 66, brimming with history and iconic landmarks. Plan to explore its unique shops, eateries, and historic sites to truly soak in the Mother Road's spirit. Consider visiting during a local event for an extra special experience. Instagram

Pasadena's Heartbeat: Colorado Blvd

Beyond its Route 66 fame, Colorado Boulevard is Pasadena's vibrant core, famous for the Rose Parade. Allow ample time to wander, discover hidden gems, and appreciate its evolution from a dirt road to a cultural hub. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere and events
Crowd
Medium
When
During local events
Why
Unique parades and festivals
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

at the historic Andy’s Coffee Shop on Colorado Boulevard and Route 66… and love that they always have our @ktla5news playing for everyone
pete.wilgoren
6 likes • 349 views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Historic Route

Explore Colorado Boulevard on foot to discover its many shops, eateries, and historic markers. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check for Events

Pasadena hosts events like the Rose Parade; check schedules for a vibrant experience. Instagram :calendar:

🚦✨ Ever wondered why Colorado Boulevard isn't named after the state? Turns out, the story goes back to 1874… settlers, orange groves, and a little frontier flair. 🌵🌹 From dirt road → to Rose Parade stage → to Route 66 icon… Colorado has always been Pasadena's beating heart. ❤️ Were you today years old when you learned this? 👀 Drop a 🌹 if you've ever strolled Colorado on New Year's Day, and tag...
pasadenavibes
0 likes • 5.1K views
Route 66 walking tour of Old Town Pasadena. The nation and the world probably know one small strip of Highway 66 better than any other section of the 2,400-mile road. That stretch is Colorado Boulevard, where the annual Tournament of Roses Parade has marched along since the l890s. The festivities have grown in grandeur and popularity through the years. And with it, television coverage of the par...
bonghrms
0 likes • 28 views

📸 Capture the Murals

Don't miss the colorful murals that add artistic flair to the streetscape. Instagram :camerawithflash:

☕️ Enjoy Classic Diners

Experience nostalgia at historic spots like Andy's Coffee Shop. TikTok :coffee:

@greetingstour mural in Pasadena! Orange groves, the Rose Bowl, Van Halen and so much more representing #Pasadena at the corner of Colorado Boulevard and Arroyo Parkway. That’s along historic Route 66 y’all! Our MuralColors team is thrilled to have gone out there and applied our ColorShield and OverCoat coatings to this piece. One of the highlights of the job is being on-site, seeing the amazing...
muralcolors
0 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Historic Route

Explore Colorado Boulevard on foot to discover its many shops, eateries, and historic markers. Instagram :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check for Events

Pasadena hosts events like the Rose Parade; check schedules for a vibrant experience. Instagram :calendar:

📸 Capture the Murals

Don't miss the colorful murals that add artistic flair to the streetscape. Instagram :camerawithflash:

☕️ Enjoy Classic Diners

Experience nostalgia at historic spots like Andy's Coffee Shop. TikTok :coffee:

🏛️ Discover Historic Buildings

Look for buildings with historical significance, like the former auto repair shop. Instagram :classical_building:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Colorado Boulevard for its rich history as a Route 66 icon and its vibrant role as Pasadena's main street, especially its connection to the Rose Parade. The street offers a mix of nostalgic diners, colorful murals, and historic architecture, making it a visually engaging experience. Some find parking challenging during peak times or events.

What People Like

Historic Route 66 charm
Vibrant street life
Iconic murals

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Colorado Boulevard is a major thoroughfare in Pasadena, easily accessible by car. If using public transport, numerous bus lines run along it. The closest Metro Gold Line station is Memorial Park, a short walk from the heart of the boulevard. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available, though they can fill up quickly, especially during events. Consider using parking apps to find available spots. Reddit

Absolutely! Colorado Boulevard is very walkable and bike-friendly, with wide sidewalks and bike lanes in many sections. It's a great way to explore the shops and sights. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll or a bike ride to take in the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Consider a walking tour for deeper insights. Instagram

Keep an eye out for historic murals like the Greetings Tour mural and significant buildings like the former auto repair shop now housing Taco Social. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Colorado Boulevard itself is a public street and does not require tickets for general access. Entry to specific attractions or events may have associated costs. Instagram

Shop and restaurant hours vary. Most are open daily, typically from late morning to evening. It's best to check individual business hours online before your visit. TikTok

General access to the boulevard and most historic markers is free. However, museums or specific attractions along the route may have admission fees. Instagram

Yes, guided walking tours are available and highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the history and significance of this Route 66 stretch. Instagram

Weekdays, especially weekday mornings, tend to be less crowded than weekends or during major events like the Rose Parade. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic spots include the Greetings Tour mural, historic diners like Andy's Coffee Shop, and the unique architecture of buildings like the former auto repair shop. TikTokInstagram+1

Look for Route 66 signage and historic markers. The entire boulevard carries the legacy of the Mother Road, making it a photogenic experience. Instagram

The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer beautiful lighting for capturing the street's character. Midday can be harsh. Instagram

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask permission from staff or owners before taking extensive photos inside businesses. TikTok

If visiting around New Year's, you can photograph the floats being prepared or the parade route itself. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a diverse culinary scene, from classic American diners and cafes to international cuisine, including Mexican food at places like Taco Social. TikTokInstagram

Andy's Coffee Shop is a classic Route 66 diner experience. Taco Social offers a modern take on Mexican food in a historic setting. TikTokInstagram

Dining options range from budget-friendly cafes and fast-casual spots to mid-range restaurants, catering to various budgets. Reddit

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check menus online or ask staff for specific recommendations. Instagram

Yes, numerous cafes, delis, and fast-casual eateries are available for quick and convenient meals along Colorado Boulevard. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Colorado Boulevard offers a family-friendly experience with plenty of visual interest. Kids will enjoy spotting the colorful murals like the Greetings Tour mural Instagram and the unique architecture of historic buildings. Classic diners like Andy's Coffee Shop TikTok provide a nostalgic and approachable dining experience. Consider visiting during a less crowded weekday morning to allow children to explore at their own pace. The wide sidewalks make it easy for strollers and little legs to navigate. Reddit

🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts

For those tracing the path of historic Route 66, Colorado Boulevard is an essential stop. Immerse yourself in the 'Mother Road's' legacy by exploring its iconic landmarks, vintage diners, and the palpable sense of history. TikTokInstagram Don't miss the chance to photograph classic signage and architecture. Consider a self-guided tour or a local walking tour to gain deeper insights into this significant stretch of highway. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walkers & Explorers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Route 66 on Colorado Boulevard

Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena holds a special place in the heart of historic Route 66, often referred to as the 'most famous stretch' of the Mother Road. This iconic segment has witnessed the evolution of American travel and culture, from its early days as a dusty trail to its current status as a vibrant urban artery. The boulevard's significance is amplified by its role as the parade route for the world-renowned Tournament of Roses Parade, a tradition dating back to the late 1800s. Instagram+1

Travelers can still feel the echoes of the past by exploring the historic architecture, classic diners, and unique shops that line the street. Landmarks like Andy's Coffee Shop offer a tangible connection to the era of classic car travel and roadside Americana. TikTok The presence of historic markers and the preservation of buildings with significant past uses, such as the former auto repair shop now housing Taco Social, further cement Colorado Boulevard's status as a living piece of Route 66 history. Instagram

Understanding the historical context of Colorado Boulevard enriches the visitor experience. It's not just a street; it's a narrative of American expansion, innovation, and cultural celebration. Whether you're a history buff, a road trip enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic stroll, this stretch of Route 66 offers a compelling journey through time. Instagram

Pasadena's Colorado Boulevard: More Than Just Route 66

While its Route 66 heritage is undeniable, Colorado Boulevard is also the pulsating heart of Pasadena, a city known for its elegance and cultural attractions. The boulevard serves as the city's main artery, hosting a diverse array of businesses, from independent boutiques and art galleries to renowned restaurants and cafes. Its transformation from a simple dirt road to a bustling commercial and cultural hub is a testament to Pasadena's growth and enduring appeal. Instagram

The boulevard's most famous role, however, is as the stage for the annual Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year's Day. This spectacular event draws millions of viewers worldwide, showcasing elaborate floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. The parade's long-standing tradition, originating in the 1890s, has cemented Colorado Boulevard's place in the collective consciousness as a site of celebration and spectacle. Instagram+1

Beyond the parade, Colorado Boulevard offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Visitors can explore the Pasadena Museum of History to delve deeper into the city's past, or discover public art installations like the Greetings Tour mural. The street's vibrant energy, combined with its historical depth, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Southern California. Instagram+1

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