
Pasadena Playhouse
A historic Pasadena gem, this theater offers award-winning plays and intimate performances in a beautifully preserved venue.

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

Pasadena Playhouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Pasadena gem, this theater offers award-winning plays and intimate performances in a beautifully preserved venue.
"Beautiful historic playhouse with the highest quality performances."

🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Don't miss out! Popular productions at the Pasadena Playhouse often sell out. Book your Pasadena Playhouse tickets early.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking is available, but consider arriving early or parking a few blocks away to ensure a spot.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Award-Winning Productions
Main Stage
Experience critically acclaimed new works and revivals that have earned prestigious awards and critical praise.

Historic Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the beautifully preserved historic building, a landmark in Pasadena's cultural landscape.

Intimate Performance Space
Auditorium
Enjoy a close-up theater experience in a venue known for its intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Parking & Arrival
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Don't miss out! Popular productions at the Pasadena Playhouse often sell out. Book your Pasadena Playhouse tickets early.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking is available, but consider arriving early or parking a few blocks away to ensure a spot.
✨ Dress Comfortably
While it's a theater, the vibe is generally relaxed. Comfortable attire is key for enjoying the show.
📍 Explore Playhouse Village
The theater is in a vibrant area with shops and restaurants. Arrive early to explore!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Don't miss out! Popular productions at the Pasadena Playhouse often sell out. Book your Pasadena Playhouse tickets early.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking is available, but consider arriving early or parking a few blocks away to ensure a spot.
✨ Dress Comfortably
While it's a theater, the vibe is generally relaxed. Comfortable attire is key for enjoying the show.
📍 Explore Playhouse Village
The theater is in a vibrant area with shops and restaurants. Arrive early to explore!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Pasadena Playhouse for its beautiful historic venue and high-quality, thought-provoking productions. The surrounding area offers convenient dining and parking, though some note that seating sightlines can be challenging for shorter patrons. Overall, it's considered a stellar experience and a beloved cultural landmark.
"Beautiful historic playhouse with the highest quality performances. I saw, “One of the Good Ones” which I HIGHLY recommend. A brilliant and poignant comedy in the storytelling style of Norman Lear - covering sensitive cultural and family dynamics in a meaningful and comedic way.
The playhouse is gorgeous, the seats are comfortable. There is limited concessions offered outside, and limited lobby space for gathering before the show. I didn’t see a gift shop. Parking is easy and right across the street. There was a special “Event Parking” price of $5 for the matinee performance I attended. Overall, a stellar experience and I highly recommend this beautiful theater. The only downside is that I’m short, and the seating is almost level, so I had to try to see around the head in front of me for most of the performance. But I would definitely return and bring a cushion to sit on."
Dayna Jo
"Great play. Great, historical building, and great staff. 100/10.
I also love how, despite how historical the building is, it is still well-kept and well-maintained."
Alejandro Foucault Monterrey
"Beautiful, historic theater! We enjoyed the play too….Eureka Day! To over vax our kids or not!?! To question 70+ kids vaccines or not?!?
It was fun seeing this thought provoking play with a theater full of ultra pro-vaccination California liberals! 🤣🤣"
J K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pasadena Playhouse is located in the heart of Pasadena, CA. It's accessible by car, with several parking options nearby. Public transportation, including bus lines, also serves the area.
There are parking lots across the street and behind the theater. Some Redditors suggest parking a few blocks away to avoid potential issues. Event parking may have a special price.
Yes, several bus lines stop near the Pasadena Playhouse, making it accessible via public transit for those looking to avoid driving. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.
Yes, you can be dropped off directly at the entrance of the Pasadena Playhouse. This is a convenient option if you are being driven or using a ride-sharing service.
From Los Angeles, you can drive via the I-10 E and CA-110 N, or take public transport which may involve a combination of metro rail and bus. Ride-sharing services are also a popular option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase Pasadena Playhouse tickets directly from their official website, at the box office, or through authorized ticket vendors. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular shows.
The Pasadena Playhouse schedule features a variety of plays, musicals, and special events throughout the year. Check their official website for the most up-to-date calendar and show listings.
Occasionally, discount tickets may be available through promotions or partnerships. Keep an eye on the Pasadena Playhouse website or subscribe to their newsletter for updates on potential discounts.
The box office hours can vary. It's best to check the official Pasadena Playhouse website or call their phone number for the most current operating hours before planning your visit.
Information on rush tickets, if available, is typically announced closer to the performance dates. Check the Pasadena Playhouse's social media or website for any announcements regarding rush ticket policies.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Pasadena Playhouse offers various seating sections. Some reviewers mention that seating can be nearly level, which might affect sightlines for shorter individuals. Bringing a cushion is a suggested tip.
Limited concessions are offered outside, and lobby space for gathering before the show is also limited. There isn't a dedicated gift shop mentioned in reviews.
The Pasadena Playhouse strives to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs and arrangements.
Play durations vary depending on the production. Most shows run for approximately 2 to 3 hours, including an intermission. Check the specific show's page for estimated run times.
Photography and videography are generally not permitted during performances to avoid disturbing the actors and other audience members. Check with ushers for policies on photos during intermission or before the show.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Pasadena Playhouse is located in an area with many restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops within walking distance, offering diverse dining options before or after a show.
Outside food and beverages are typically not allowed inside the auditorium. Concessions are available for purchase inside the venue.
The surrounding area offers a wide range of cuisines, from casual cafes to more upscale dining. You can find everything from American fare to international dishes.
While specific details about a bar are not always highlighted, many theaters offer beverage services. It's best to inquire upon arrival or check the venue's amenities.
Absolutely! The area around the Pasadena Playhouse has numerous family-friendly restaurants, including pizzerias and casual eateries, perfect for a pre- or post-theater meal with children.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the historic Pasadena Playhouse building offers beautiful architectural shots. Inside, the lobby and auditorium can be photogenic before the show begins.
Generally, photography of the stage and performances is prohibited during the show to respect the artists and audience. Always check with venue staff for specific photo policies.
The iconic marquee and the grand facade of the Pasadena Playhouse are popular spots for photos, especially when illuminated at night.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the Pasadena Playhouse. Daytime provides clear views of the architecture.
Selfies are usually permitted in the lobby and common areas before or after the performance, but not during the show. Be mindful of other patrons.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When considering a family outing, check the show's descriptions and age recommendations carefully. The intimate setting can be wonderful for young theatergoers, but it's important to ensure the content is appropriate. The surrounding Playhouse Village area also offers family-friendly dining options for a complete outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider utilizing public transportation to reach the Playhouse to save on parking fees. Additionally, exploring the numerous affordable dining options in Playhouse Village before or after the show can help manage overall expenses.
🎭 Theater Enthusiasts
Follow the Pasadena Playhouse season announcements closely to catch premieres and critically acclaimed productions. The intimate seating ensures a deep connection with the performances, and the quality of acting and directing is frequently lauded.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Century of Performance: Pasadena Playhouse History
In recent years, the Pasadena Playhouse has focused on new works and revivals, often tackling relevant social and cultural themes. This commitment to contemporary storytelling, alongside its dedication to preserving its historic legacy, makes it a dynamic and vital institution. The recent news of the Playhouse buying back its historic building after over 50 years signifies a strong commitment to its future.
From its early days to its current programming, the Pasadena Playhouse has consistently aimed to provide thought-provoking and engaging theatrical experiences. Its enduring presence is a testament to its artistic excellence and its deep connection with the community it serves.
Navigating the Pasadena Playhouse Experience
When planning your visit, consider the Pasadena Playhouse schedule for upcoming shows. Productions range from classic revivals to cutting-edge new plays, ensuring a diverse offering for theater enthusiasts. Reviews often commend the highest quality performances and the talent of the cast members, with specific plays like 'One of the Good Ones' and 'Eureka Day' receiving particular praise for their poignant and thought-provoking content.
Practical aspects like parking and seating are worth noting. While parking is available nearby, arriving early is advised. Some patrons have mentioned that the seating arrangement might require a bit of adjustment for optimal viewing, with one reviewer suggesting bringing a cushion. Despite these minor points, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors expressing a strong desire to return.
Beyond the Stage: Exploring Playhouse Village
Before or after a performance, you can explore unique boutiques, enjoy a coffee at a local cafe, or dine at one of the many eateries offering diverse culinary options. This proximity to other attractions enhances the overall visit, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and atmosphere of Pasadena.
Many attendees find that arriving early to explore Playhouse Village adds significant value to their theater outing. It's a chance to discover hidden gems, grab a bite, and soak in the charming ambiance of the neighborhood before heading into the theater for the show.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit