
Old Pasadena
Explore historic streets, discover unique vintage treasures, and savor diverse culinary delights in Old Pasadena.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

Old Pasadena
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic streets, discover unique vintage treasures, and savor diverse culinary delights in Old Pasadena.
"Old Pasadena is a charming district with a vibrant mix of vintage shops, boutiques, and fantastic eateries."

🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the shops and streets! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bargain Hunting
Many vintage stores offer unique finds at great prices. Don't be afraid to explore! :moneybag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Antique & Vintage Shopping
Various shops throughout Old Pasadena
Hunt for unique treasures, from furniture to fashion, in Pasadena's renowned antique malls and vintage boutiques.

Colorado Boulevard Exploration
Colorado Boulevard
Stroll down the vibrant main street, discovering diverse shops, eateries, and historic architecture.

Neon Retro Arcade
Neon Retro Arcade
Step back in time at this fun-filled arcade with classic pinball and video games.

Ramen Speakeasy Experience
After Dark at Tsujita
Discover a hidden gem for delicious ramen in a unique speakeasy setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vintage Charm
Culinary Delights Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the shops and streets! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bargain Hunting
Many vintage stores offer unique finds at great prices. Don't be afraid to explore! :moneybag:
📅 Check Event Calendars
Old Pasadena often hosts events, markets, and live music. Plan around them! :calendar:
🚗 Parking Tips
Utilize the parking garages for convenient access to the heart of Old Pasadena. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the shops and streets! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Bargain Hunting
Many vintage stores offer unique finds at great prices. Don't be afraid to explore! :moneybag:
📅 Check Event Calendars
Old Pasadena often hosts events, markets, and live music. Plan around them! :calendar:
🚗 Parking Tips
Utilize the parking garages for convenient access to the heart of Old Pasadena. :car:
🍜 Ramen Reservations
For popular ramen spots like Tsujita, consider booking ahead or arriving early. :ramen:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Old Pasadena's charming streets, diverse shopping, and vibrant culinary scene. The abundance of vintage stores and unique boutiques is a major draw, alongside a lively atmosphere perfect for dates and family outings. Some find parking can be a bit challenging during peak times, and certain popular dining spots may have long waits.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Pasadena is easily accessible by car, with several parking garages available. Public transportation options, including bus lines, also serve the area. If coming from Los Angeles, it's about a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages in Old Pasadena, such as the Paseo Colorado garage and the Marston's lot, offering convenient access to the shops and restaurants.
Yes, various Metro bus lines run through or near Old Pasadena, making it accessible without a car. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.
Absolutely! Old Pasadena is very walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants concentrated within a few blocks. Comfortable shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere of Old Pasadena. You can also consider a self-guided walking tour to discover its historic architecture and hidden gems.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Pasadena is a public district, and there are no admission tickets required to enter or walk around. Individual attractions or events may have their own ticket requirements.
Old Pasadena itself doesn't have set hours as it's a district, but individual shops and restaurants have their own operating times, typically from late morning to evening. Many shops close around 7-9 PM.
There are no entrance fees for Old Pasadena. You only pay for purchases, dining, or specific attractions like the Neon Retro Arcade.
Yes, Old Pasadena is generally open on holidays, though individual business hours may vary. It's always a good idea to check the specific hours of any place you plan to visit.
Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, aim for a weekday afternoon. Friday evenings can be lively with events and dining.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Antiques
Old Pasadena boasts a diverse range of shops, including unique boutiques, vintage stores, antique malls, and well-known retailers. You can find everything from fashion and home decor to specialty items.
Pasadena Antique Center and AMT Vintage are popular spots for vintage finds. You'll also discover many other antique shops and thrift stores scattered throughout the district.
While specific bookstores aren't highlighted in the provided content, the area is known for its eclectic mix of shops, so it's worth exploring for hidden literary gems.
Colorado Boulevard is the main artery for shopping, but exploring the side streets and alleys will reveal many charming boutiques and specialty stores.
Yes, some of the larger thrift stores, like the new Goodwill on Colorado Boulevard, can be great places to find designer items if you're lucky and persistent!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Old Pasadena offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Popular choices include ramen spots like Tsujita, Mexican cuisine at Maestro, and sushi at Mama M Sushi on Fridays.
Yes, you can find several coffee shops in and around Old Pasadena, perfect for a break while exploring. Danbi Coffee is mentioned as a good option.
Old Pasadena has a lively nightlife with bars and lounges. Lucky Baldwin's offers a British pub experience, and Mama M Sushi has a DJ on Friday nights. There are also speakeasy-style bars like After Dark.
With the diverse culinary scene, you're likely to find vegetarian and vegan options at many restaurants. It's always best to check menus or ask staff.
Consider the ramen speakeasy After Dark at Tsujita or the cocktail tasting experience at Ladies and Gentlemen for unique culinary adventures. Maestro offers live music on Fridays.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic architecture along Colorado Boulevard, charming alleyways, and the vibrant storefronts offer numerous photo opportunities. The Neon Retro Arcade also provides a unique, colorful backdrop.
Yes, Osa Rooftop, located on top of the AC Hotel in the Playhouse district, offers gorgeous mountain views and is a great spot for photos, especially during sunset.
The 'golden hour' before sunset provides beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings can also be great for capturing the architecture without crowds.
It's generally polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside shops, especially if you're not a customer. Many shop owners are happy to allow quick snaps.
The unique signage, vintage storefronts, and the general ambiance of Old Pasadena make for great candid shots. Don't miss the chance to capture the retro vibe of the Neon Retro Arcade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the antique shops might be more for browsing with children, the sheer variety of storefronts and the lively atmosphere can still be engaging. Keep an eye out for any local events or street performers that might add to the family fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
For food, look for casual eateries, food trucks, or happy hour deals. Many of the coffee shops offer affordable snacks and drinks. Vintage shopping can also be budget-friendly if you're hunting for unique bargains rather than high-end collectibles.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
For a unique cocktail experience, Ladies and Gentlemen offers a sophisticated tasting menu. Alternatively, enjoy drinks and a lively atmosphere at Mama M Sushi on a Friday night or a cozy pint at Lucky Baldwin's pub. The charming streets and potential for rooftop drinks at Osa Rooftop add to the romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven for Vintage Enthusiasts
Beyond the large antique centers, numerous smaller boutiques like AMT Vintage and the 1042 Flea Market provide curated selections of clothing, accessories, and homewares. These spots are perfect for those seeking specific eras or styles, from the 1950s to the 1990s. Be prepared to spend a good chunk of your day sifting through these treasures – it's part of the fun!
Pro-tip: Keep an eye out for special vintage markets or pop-ups, as they often bring even more unique vendors and items to the area.
Culinary Adventures in Old Pasadena
If you're looking for a more elevated experience, Maestro Pasadena serves modern Mexican cuisine with live music on Fridays, making it a perfect date night spot. For those seeking unique cocktails and a sophisticated ambiance, Ladies and Gentlemen offers a $75 cocktail tasting experience in a historic building, ideal for special occasions.
Beyond these highlights, Old Pasadena is dotted with charming cafes like Danbi Coffee and casual eateries, ensuring you can find something delicious no matter your craving or budget. Exploring the side streets often reveals hidden culinary gems.
Entertainment and Leisure
For a more relaxed evening, Lucky Baldwin's provides a classic British pub experience with a wide selection of beers and a great atmosphere for watching sports. If you're looking for live music and dancing, check out local venues that host indie, funk, and house nights, often with affordable cover charges.
Additionally, the area is known for its beautiful architecture and is a great place for a leisurely stroll, especially during the 'golden hour' for picturesque views.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit