Pasadena Convention Center
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Pasadena Convention Center and Civic Auditorium

4.5
·2k reviews·Pasadena, United States

A historic landmark venue hosting diverse events from horror cons to cultural performances, known for its grand architecture and acoustics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event Weekends

Experience unique conventions

CrowdHigh
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Pasadena Convention Center

Pasadena Convention Center and Civic Auditorium

Best Time

Event Weekends

Experience unique conventions

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic landmark venue hosting diverse events from horror cons to cultural performances, known for its grand architecture and acoustics.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"An amazing venue with plenty of options to host meetings, highly recommended for events in Pasadena or LA."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Check Event Schedules

Visit only when events are happening; the venue is event-driven.

🚗 Plan Parking Ahead

Parking can be tough and pricey during big events. Consider ride-shares or public transit.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pasadena Civic Auditorium

Pasadena Civic Auditorium

300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101

Iconic venue known for its stunning architecture and excellent acoustics, hosting diverse performances.

Instagram
Monsterpalooza

Monsterpalooza

Pasadena Convention Center

A must-visit for horror fans, celebrating monsters and movie magic with celebrity guests and vendors.

TikTok+1
Anime Pasadena

Anime Pasadena

Pasadena Civic Auditorium

A vibrant convention for anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture enthusiasts with panels and performances.

Instagram
Pasadena Chalk Festival

Pasadena Chalk Festival

Outside Pasadena Convention Center

Witness incredible chalk art come to life, featuring talented artists and diverse themes.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Event-Driven Destination

This venue primarily hosts events, so check their schedule before visiting. Popular events like Monsterpalooza and CatCon draw large crowds, so book tickets in advance. TikTok+2

Parking & Transportation

While ride-sharing is an option, parking can be challenging and expensive during major events. Consider public transport or arriving early. Reddit

Best Times

When
Event Weekends
Why
Experience unique conventions
Crowd
High
When
Off-Peak Weekdays
Why
Quieter venue exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

NAME THE MOVIE!⁣ Felissa Rose met “Angela” from this iconic 80s horror film! *Mask by: @hyperfleshdude⁣ ⁣ MARK YOUR CALENDARS! ⁣ Monsterpalooza RETURNS to The Pasadena Convention Center MAY 31st – JUNE 2nd, 2024 for our 15th Anniversary to Celebrate the Art of Monsters & Movie Magic!⁣ ⁣ Early bird priced tickets go on sale November 1st!⁣ JOIN OUR MAILING LIST FOR EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS! ➨ ⁣ WWW.MONST...
@monsterpalooza
252.9K likes • 5.4M views

🎟️ Check Event Schedules

Visit only when events are happening; the venue is event-driven. TikTok+1

🚗 Plan Parking Ahead

Parking can be tough and pricey during big events. Consider ride-shares or public transit. Reddit

The vendors watching us walk by them every hour like 👀 @jeanette m. @AnimePasadena #animeconvention #ithinkilldoawraparound #animepasadena #artistalley
@julia_b00lia
31.5K likes • 135.7K views
30th annual Pasadena Chalk Festival outside the Pasadena Convention Center and Civic Auditorium. Featuring chalk artists as Stephen Arnold @stephenwalterart for his work on Walt Disney, Ben Vivas @benvivasart for Hatsune Miku, Charlotte Scovilli @luckycharr for Barbie and Leonides Aguirre @leonides_80 for Jack Torrance from The Shining just to name a few. Pasadena Chalk Festival Pasadena, Califo...
alexc43
27 likes • 567 views

🎤 Book Tickets Early

Popular events like Monsterpalooza sell out fast. Get your tickets in advance! TikTok

🛍️ Explore Artist Alleys

Discover unique art and merchandise from talented vendors at conventions. TikTok

Walking tour of the 5th Annual Anime Pasadena 2023 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The Pasadena Convention Center and Civic Auditorium welcomed the 5th annual Anime Pasadena, where fans and cast members of the biggest anime, manga and Japanese pop culture fandoms will reunite for a weekend packed with events, panels, performances, screenings, photoshoots and exclusive artwork and merch. Fans g...
bonghrms
0 likes • 39 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Check Event Schedules

Visit only when events are happening; the venue is event-driven. TikTok+1

🚗 Plan Parking Ahead

Parking can be tough and pricey during big events. Consider ride-shares or public transit. Reddit

🎤 Book Tickets Early

Popular events like Monsterpalooza sell out fast. Get your tickets in advance! TikTok

🛍️ Explore Artist Alleys

Discover unique art and merchandise from talented vendors at conventions. TikTok

📸 Capture the Architecture

The Civic Auditorium is a beautiful historic building worth admiring. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

This venue is highly recommended for its versatility in hosting a wide range of events, from major conventions to performances. Visitors praise its convenient location, historical architecture, and good acoustics, though parking can be a challenge during busy periods. [^Review]

"This place has delicious food! It also was fun at Cat Con! They do have mostly good priced items for not just cats, but humans, and for bunnies (though they don't advertise it as such.)"

Ravlak Kurr

"It’s an amazing venue with plenty of options to host meetings. The location is great and there are plenty of options for restaurants and hotels available near by… highly recommended if you are looking for a convenient venue to host an event in Pasadena or in LA’s area. This convention center is a great option!"

Carlo R. Carranza

"Great venue! We've been for a cirque performance, a comedy show and America's Got Talent.

It's a classic venue with great acoustics. I've only sat on the bottom level, so I can't comment on the top level.

The bathrooms are clean and plentiful. They usually sell concessions in the middle level.

Love the history and beauty of the venue!"

Candie Brown

What People Like

Great venue for events
Historic architecture
Good acoustics

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Pasadena Convention Center and Civic Auditorium are located at 300 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101. You can reach it via car, with several parking options nearby, or by public transportation. The Metro Gold Line (now L Line) has a station within walking distance. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, parking is available at the Pasadena Convention Center, but it can be limited and expensive, especially during major events. It's advisable to check event-specific parking information or consider alternative transportation. Reddit

The closest Metro L Line (Gold) station is Memorial Park Station, which is a short walk from the convention center. Several bus lines also serve the area. Reddit

Bag policies can vary by event. For specific events like the bar exam, attendees have inquired about bringing backpacks for essentials. It's best to check the individual event's rules regarding bag size and content. Reddit

The venue is generally accessible. For specific needs or event accommodations, it's recommended to contact the event organizer or the venue directly in advance. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The best way to find out about upcoming events is to check the official Pasadena Convention Center website or follow their social media channels. Many events, like Monsterpalooza and CatCon, also have their own dedicated websites and social media. TikTok+2

Tickets for specific events are typically purchased through the event's official website or authorized ticketing partners. Early bird tickets are often available for popular conventions. TikTok

While many events require paid admission, some may have free entry components or special promotions. For instance, free tacos have been advertised at certain events. TikTok

Ticket prices vary significantly depending on the event. Conventions like Monsterpalooza or Anime Pasadena can range from daily passes to weekend passes, with prices often starting around $30-$50 and going up. TikTok

For popular events, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance as they may sell out. However, some events may offer tickets for sale at the door, though availability is not guaranteed. TikTok

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The venue hosts a wide array of events, including large conventions like Monsterpalooza (horror), CatCon (pet lovers), and Anime Pasadena (Japanese pop culture), as well as trade shows, concerts, and private functions. TikTokInstagram+1

Monsterpalooza is a celebration of monsters and movie magic, featuring celebrity guests from horror films, artists, vendors selling collectibles, and displays of creature effects. TikTok+1

Anime Pasadena is a lively convention for fans of anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture, offering panels, performances, screenings, and opportunities to meet cast members. Instagram

Yes, concessions are typically available on the middle level of the Civic Auditorium, offering snacks and beverages. Some events may also have food trucks or vendors. TikTok

The Civic Auditorium offers various seating levels. Attendees have reported good views and acoustics from the bottom level, but it's always best to check seating charts when purchasing tickets. [^Review]

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by event. For conventions, personal photography is usually permitted, but professional photography or flash usage might be restricted. Always check the specific event's guidelines. Instagram

The exterior architecture of the Civic Auditorium is a popular spot for photos. Inside, the grand hall and stage areas offer impressive backdrops, especially during performances or events. Instagram

Filming and vlogging rules are event-specific. Some events might have designated areas or require press credentials for professional filming. TikTok

Absolutely! The Pasadena Chalk Festival is a fantastic opportunity to capture vibrant chalk art. Visitors are encouraged to take photos and share them. Instagram

Attendees often photograph the elaborate costumes, makeup effects, celebrity guests, and unique merchandise available at Monsterpalooza. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Pasadena Convention Center and Civic Auditorium can be a fun destination for families, especially when attending events like CatCon or the Pasadena Chalk Festival. These events often feature engaging activities and visually stimulating displays that appeal to younger audiences. TikTokInstagram

When visiting with children, it's advisable to check the specific event's age recommendations and any family-friendly amenities offered. Consider bringing snacks and drinks if allowed, and be prepared for crowds, especially during popular convention weekends. The venue's accessibility also makes it easier to navigate with strollers. Reddit

👻 Horror & Sci-Fi Fans

For enthusiasts of the macabre and fantastical, Monsterpalooza is an unmissable event. This convention brings together fans and creators of horror, sci-fi, and fantasy, offering a chance to meet actors, artists, and immerse yourself in the world of monsters. TikTok+1

Beyond Monsterpalooza, keep an eye out for other genre-specific events or screenings that might be hosted at the venue. The Pasadena Civic Auditorium itself has a classic, sometimes eerie, aesthetic that can add to the atmosphere for certain themed events. [^Review]

🎨 Art & Culture Aficionados

The Pasadena Chalk Festival, held annually outside the convention center, is a vibrant showcase of artistic talent. Witnessing artists transform pavement into stunning masterpieces is a unique cultural experience. Instagram

Additionally, the Pasadena Civic Auditorium itself is an architectural marvel. Appreciating its historic design and the performances it hosts offers a dose of culture and history for art lovers. [^Review]

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Pasadena Civic Auditorium: A Historic Gem

The Pasadena Civic Auditorium, a landmark at the heart of the convention center complex, is renowned for its grand architecture and exceptional acoustics. Built in the 1930s, it has hosted countless performances, from concerts and theatrical productions to televised events like America's Got Talent. Its classic design and historical significance make it a captivating space to experience any event. [^Review] Instagram

Visitors often praise the venue for its beauty and history, noting the clean and plentiful restrooms and the availability of concessions. While seating is generally good, experiences can vary, with some attendees specifically mentioning satisfaction with seats on the bottom level. [^Review]

Whether attending a concert, a comedy show, or a major convention, the Civic Auditorium provides a memorable backdrop. Its enduring charm and functional design continue to make it a premier destination for entertainment and events in Southern California. [^Review]

Navigating Major Conventions: Tips from Attendees

Attending large conventions like Monsterpalooza or Anime Pasadena at the convention center can be an exhilarating experience, but requires some planning. Social media buzz highlights the excitement around these events, from meeting horror legends to exploring artist alleys filled with unique creations. TikTok+2

Vendor vlogs and attendee posts often emphasize the importance of checking event schedules and booking tickets well in advance, as popular events can sell out quickly. TikTok+1 For those attending, be prepared for crowds, especially on opening days. Many attendees recommend arriving early to make the most of the day and avoid long queues. TikTok

When planning your visit, consider the logistics of parking and transportation. While ride-sharing is an option, parking can be a challenge and costly during peak times. Reddit Some attendees have also noted the availability of food and drink, but it's always wise to check if bringing your own snacks is permitted, especially for longer events. Reddit

Beyond Conventions: The Civic Auditorium's Performance History

While the Pasadena Convention Center is a hub for expos and fan gatherings, the Pasadena Civic Auditorium itself boasts a rich history as a premier performance venue. Its elegant design and superior acoustics have made it a sought-after location for a diverse range of artistic expressions. [^Review]

Over the years, the auditorium has welcomed renowned musicians, acclaimed theater troupes, and even served as a filming location and taping site for popular television shows, including America's Got Talent. [^Review] This legacy underscores its importance not just as a convention space, but as a cultural cornerstone for the performing arts in the region.

Experiencing a live performance here offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the venue's historical grandeur and its commitment to hosting high-caliber entertainment. [^Review]

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