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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience unique conventions

Pasadena Convention Center and Civic Auditorium
Best Time
Experience unique conventions

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic landmark venue hosting diverse events from horror cons to cultural performances, known for its grand architecture and acoustics.
"An amazing venue with plenty of options to host meetings, highly recommended for events in Pasadena or LA."

🎟️ 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pasadena Civic Auditorium
300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
Iconic venue known for its stunning architecture and excellent acoustics, hosting diverse performances.

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

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

Pasadena Chalk Festival
Outside Pasadena Convention Center
Witness incredible chalk art come to life, featuring talented artists and diverse themes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Event-Driven Destination
Parking & Transportation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ 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.
🎤 Book Tickets Early
Popular events like Monsterpalooza sell out fast. Get your tickets in advance!
🛍️ Explore Artist Alleys
Discover unique art and merchandise from talented vendors at conventions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ 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.
🎤 Book Tickets Early
Popular events like Monsterpalooza sell out fast. Get your tickets in advance!
🛍️ Explore Artist Alleys
Discover unique art and merchandise from talented vendors at conventions.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The Civic Auditorium is a beautiful historic building worth admiring.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 ✨ 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.
Monsterpalooza is a celebration of monsters and movie magic, featuring celebrity guests from horror films, artists, vendors selling collectibles, and displays of creature effects.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Filming and vlogging rules are event-specific. Some events might have designated areas or require press credentials for professional filming.
Absolutely! The Pasadena Chalk Festival is a fantastic opportunity to capture vibrant chalk art. Visitors are encouraged to take photos and share them.
Attendees often photograph the elaborate costumes, makeup effects, celebrity guests, and unique merchandise available at Monsterpalooza.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
👻 Horror & Sci-Fi Fans
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
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
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
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. 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.
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. 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.
Beyond Conventions: The Civic Auditorium's Performance History
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]

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit