ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Creative and artistic spirits have long been attracted to Pasadena. Leading architects and designers synonymous with the American Arts & Crafts movement called Pasadena home in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and their lasting infl uence is showcased every fall during Craftsman Weekend. Business magnates and industrialists like Norton Simon and Henry Huntington were among the prominent art collectors and benefactors whose legacies remain evident today in the community’s rich arts and cultural landscape. In 1922, the Pasadena Art Institute was founded by a group of local residents with a mission to create a museum and encourage fi ne art education. Today, their e orts live on in what is now the Norton Simon Museum, a gem of an art museum housed in a Frank Gehry designed building. This summer, the museum features a special exhibition, The Sweetness of Life:

Three 18th-Century French Paintings from The Frick

Collection, on display June 14-September 9. The

Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical

Gardens will kick o its centennial celebrations this September, just as the fascinating Project Blue Boy restoration comes to a close September 30. Since 1976, the ArtCenter College of Design has attracted contemporary artists and designers to Pasadena. Many have gone on to become globally recognized innovators, fi lmmakers, car designers, product designers and illustrators. Another leading educational institution—California Institute of

Technology—has also made a distinctive mark on the Pasadena landscape through the lens of science and engineering. Part of Caltech, NASA’s

Jet Propulsion Laboratory leads the nation’s robotic exploration of the solar system—tours of their facilities are fascinating. The performing arts have an equally deep-rooted and prominent presence in Pasadena, between the Pasadena Playhouse established in 1917, the

Pasadena Symphony founded in 1928 and the hundreds of feature fi lms produced on location here. Today, countless actors and major Hollywood talents still call Pasadena home—and can even be spotted gracing local stages. Pasadena’s contemporary entertainment landscape is rounded out with year-round concerts featuring some of the biggest names in music as well as an action-packed spectator sports roster.

ARCHITECTURE

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Tour the historic halls of one of the world’s most widely recognized institutions for the study of science and engineering. Architectural tours of the 124-acre campus are conducted most months. Please call for tour schedule and reservations.

FREE

1200 E. California Blvd. (626) 395-4654 cats.caltech.edu

City Hall

This exquisite 1927 landmark exhibits Italian Renaissance and Spanish influences with its red tile roof, ornate fountain, and lush garden courtyard.

FREE

100 N. Garfield Ave. (626) 744-7311 cityofpasadena.net

El Molino Viejo (The Old Mill)

Completed in 1816 as a grist mill for Mission San Gabriel, the two-storyoven-baked brick and adobe structure is a testament to Southern California history. FREE 1120 Old Mill Rd., San Marino (626) 449-5458 old-mill.org

CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Fenyes Mansion

Take an hour-long docent-led tour of the Pasadena Cultural Heritage Landmark Fenyes Mansion for a glimpse of life on “Millionaire’s Row.” See the original furnishings and family heirlooms that belonged to Dr. Adalbert and Eva Fenyes—including their impressive collection of California plein air paintings. 470 W. Walnut St. (626) 577-1660 pasadenahistory.org

Gamble House

Built in 1908 during the American Arts and Crafts movement, this masterpiece is the best preserved example of work from internationally recognized architects Charles and Henry Greene. The home was built for David and Mary Gamble of Procter & Gamble and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 4 Westmoreland Pl. (626) 793-3334 gamblehouse.org

Historic San Gabriel Mission District

Step into history in the San Gabriel Mission District, the fourth of California’s 21 missions. Come tour the Old Mission, take the historic walk, and enjoy entertainment, retail, and dining opportunities. The mission is open daily. 428 S. Mission Dr., San Gabriel (626) 457-3035 sangabrielcity.com

Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals

The Court is now housed in the original Vista del Arroyo Hotel, built in 1903. The building was restored and reopened by the federal government in 1985. Tours by appointment only.

FREE

125 S. Grand Ave. (626) 229-7251

Tournament House and Wrigley Gardens

This ornate mansion, once owned by chewing gum mogul William Wrigley, Jr., was built between 1908 and 1914. Today it serves as the headquarters for the Pasadena Tournament of Roses® Association. Tours are o ered on Thursdays from February-August. FREE 391 S. Orange Grove Blvd. (626) 449-4100 tournamentofroses.com

GARDENS

Arlington Garden

A three-acre public garden celebrating Southern California’s Mediterranean climate. Open to the public seven days a week. FREE 275 Arlington Dr. (626) 578-5434 arlingtongardenpasadena.com

Arts & ENTERTAINMENT

THE HUNTINGTON LIBRARY, ART COLLECTIONS AND BOTANICAL GARDENS

Descanso Gardens

Located on 160 acres, Descanso Gardens features forests, streams, a lake, and a bird sanctuary highlighted by 80 acres of colorful flowers, including camellias, lilacs, and roses. Admission is free on the third Tuesday of every month. 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada (818) 949-4200 descansogardens.org

The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens

The Huntington is an oasis of art and culture set amid 120 acres of breathtaking gardens. More than a dozen gardens feature 14,000 species of plants. The Huntington is free on the first Thursday of every month with advance tickets. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino (626) 405-2100 huntington.org

Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

This 127-acre horticultural and botanical center features plants from around the world, native and migrating birds, wildlife, colorful peacocks, and historic buildings, including the Queen Anne Cottage made famous in Fantasy Island. Admission is free on the third Tuesday of every month. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia (626) 821-3222 arboretum.org

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

This two-acre “hill and pond stroll garden” was designed and built in the late 1930s and has been completely restored to its original glory. 270 Arlington Dr. (626) 399-1721 japanesegardenpasadena.com

Wrigley Gardens

The Centennial Rose Garden at the Tournament House features more than 1,500 varieties of roses, camellias, and annuals. FREE 391 S. Orange Grove Blvd. (626) 449-4100 tournamentofroses.com

GUIDED TOURS

Melting Pot Food Tours

Experience the history, architecture, and folklore of Old Pasadena while feasting on delights from neighborhood eateries. (424) 247-9666 meltingpottours.com

My Valley Pass

Jared On Location leads guided tours of Pasadena’s popular TV and film locations, highlighting some of the most iconic filming locations, from Doc Brown’s house in “Back to the Future” to the Peach Pit from the original “Beverly Hills 90210.” Public and private group tours are available, including the Film Tour & Tea at the Langham Huntington, Pasadena which concludes with high tea. (818) 850-3836 myvalleypass.com

Old Pasadena Walking Tours

Explore a National Register Historic District and one of the best examples of downtown revitalization in the country. (626) 441-6333 pasadenaheritage.org

Pasadena Tour Company

Learn about local movie locations, architecture, grand estates, cultural landmarks, and famous residents. Private, group and custom tours available by appointment only. (626) 318-9492 pasadenatourcompany.com

Pasadena Walking Tours

Each of the Pasadena Walking Tours o ers locals and visitors alike the opportunity to explore a unique city full of history, architecture, and fascinating stories. pasadenawalkingtours.com

Rose Bowl Tours

Rose Bowl Stadium o ers public and group tours. This exclusive opportunity grants access to behindthe-scenes locations never before seen by the public, including the press box, locker room and field. 1001 Rose Bowl Dr. (626) 577-3100 rosebowlstadium.com

A Noise Within

One of a few theaters in Southern California producing works of world drama in a rotating repertory with a company of professional, classically trained artists. 3352 E. Foothill Blvd. (626) 356-3100 anoisewithin.org

Beckman & Ramo Auditoriums

Performances, lectures, storytelling, films, and concerts in the historic venues of the California Institute of Technology. 332 S. Michigan Ave. (626) 395-4652 tickets.caltech.edu

Boston Court Performing Arts Center

Two state-of-the-art theater stages showcasing diverse, innovative, and adventurous programming 70 N. Mentor Ave. (626) 683-6801 bostoncourt.com

Lineage Performing Arts Center

This contemporary dance company presents performances, classes, and workshops throughout the year as well as an annual dance festival. 500 E. Colorado Blvd. (626) 844-7008 lineagepac.org

MUSE/IQUE

Live music events with uninhibited connections between the orchestra, artists, and adventurous audiences in conventional and unconventional spaces. 300 E. Green St., Floor 3 (626) 539-7085 muse-ique.com

Pasadena Civic Auditorium

This renowned 3,000-seat theater was dedicated in 1932 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Home to America’s Got Talent, Daytime Emmy Awards, concerts and various entertainment year-round. 300 E. Green St. (626) 793-2122 thepasadenacivic.com

Pasadena Playhouse

Anchoring the Playhouse District and built in 1917, the Playhouse is the O cial State Theatre of California and a National Historic Landmark, and features Tony and Pulitzer awardwinning plays. 39 S. El Molino Ave. 626-356-7529 pasadenaplayhouse.org

FORK IN THE ROAD

DISCOVER PASADENA’S PUBLIC ART

In addition to the incredible artwork hanging inside the walls of Pasadena’s noteworthy museums and galleries, art can be found in many unexpected places. The result of one of California’s longest running public art programs, nearly 100 public works are on display all over town. These contemporary and modern masterpieces range from sculptures and murals to artist-designed benches and painted utility boxes. And all of Pasadena’s stations on the Metro’s Gold Line have public art. Must-sees include a Keith Haring Mural on the ArtCenter’s Hillside Campus. Even if you’re not going inside the Norton Simon Museum, you can certainly stop by to admire Rodin’s famous The Thinker overlooking Colorado Boulevard. Kneeling Man with a Hammer, a large eight-foot tall ceramic statue, resides in One Colorado’s historic Smith Alley. The Pasadena Robinson Memorial bronze sculptures are located across from City Hall. Film bu s will appreciate Countdown Leader, a 20 x 6-foot ceramic tile mural on the exterior of a residential building at 217 South Marengo Avenue. And the fork in the road at the intersection of Pasadena and St. John Avenues on Bellefontaine Street is marked with an 18-foot tall wooden Fork Sculpture. Find these works and many more on one of eight self-guided Public Art Walking Tours. Maps can be downloaded from cityofpasadena. net/arts/public_art_walking_tour, or pick up a physical brochure at Visit Pasadena’s Visitors Center (300 E. Green St.).

Arts & ENTERTAINMENT

NORTON SIMON MUSEUM

Pasadena Symphony and POPS

Pop, symphonic, and youth orchestra performances by the Pasadena Symphony are o ered October–May at the Ambassador Auditorium and an outdoor summer series by the Pasadena POPS at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. 2 N. Lake Ave., #1080 626-793-7172 pasadenasymphony-pops.org

ART MUSEUMS

Armory Center for the Arts

Exhibitions, performances, and art workshops are available for children and adults. 145 N. Raymond Ave. (626) 792-5101 armoryarts.org

ArtCenter College of Design

Known worldwide as a leader in art and design curriculum, the ArtCenter presents works by established and emerging artists in three exhibits annually. While on campus, also explore the student gallery and indoor and outdoor sculptures. FREE 1700 Lida St. 626-396-2446 artcenter.edu

The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens

The library holds works from British and American history and literature, including an original Gutenberg Bible and Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Three art galleries showcase 18th and 19th century British and French masterpieces, including “The Blue Boy” and “Pinkie.” The Huntington is free on the first Thursday of every month with advance tickets. 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino (626) 405-2100 huntington.org

Norton Simon Museum

View seven centuries of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Rembrandt, and Fragonard. The museum also features an extensive collection of South Asian sculptures and a sculpture garden with works by Rodin. Admission is free on the first Friday of every month from 5-8 p.m. 411 W. Colorado Blvd. (626) 449-6840 nortonsimon.org

Pasadena Museum of History

The Pasadena Museum of History includes the Finnish Folk Art Museum, History Center Galleries, and 18-room Fenyes Mansion, circa 1906, which contains its original furnishings and paintings. 470 W. Walnut St. (626) 577-1660 pasadenahistory.org

USC Pacific Asia Museum

USC Pacific Asia Museum features artwork from Asia and the Pacific Islands spanning 5,000 years with innovative exhibitions and dynamic programming. 46 N. Los Robles Ave. (626) 449-2742 pacificasiamuseum.usc.edu

NASA’S JET PROPULSION LABORATORY

There’s nothing ordinary about the movie theatres in Pasadena. Elevated filmgoing experiences complete with gourmet food and artisanal libations can be had at ArcLight Pasadena (300 E. Colorado Blvd.) and IPIC Theaters (42 Miller Alley). Laemmle’s Playhouse 7 (673 E. Colorado Blvd.) is a true art house cinema, showcasing foreign and independent films as well as hosting special screenings and events.

GO OUT OF THIS WORLD

Explore the cosmos at the Mount Wilson Observatory (mtwilson.edu), perched more than 5,700 feet above Pasadena and open daily. Docent-led walking tours—available Saturdays and Sundays from late March through early December—will get you inside both the 60-inch and 100-inch telescope domes. Public ticket nights are the prime opportunity to star gaze through the historic big telescopes, which happen to be the largest in the world available for public use. Go deeper into outer space at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (4800 Oak Grove Dr.; jpl.nasa.gov), where free tours are o ered by appointment with reservations made at least one month in advance. Individual and family tours are available on Mondays and Wednesdays and start o with “Journey to the Planets and Beyond,” a multimedia presentation that provides an overview of the Laboratory’s activities and accomplishments in planetary exploration and Earth science. Other highlights include the Space Flight Operations Facility and the Spacecraft Assembly Facility. Starting July 5, APOLLO 11: An Immersive 360° Adventure debuts a lunar dome at the Rose Bowl Stadium. The 90-minute, limited engagement show brings the stories behind the 1969 Moon landing to life with 20 actors, a full orchestral score and life-size rockets.

ROSE BOWL STADIUM

SPECTATOR SPORTS FANS

Sport is just as synonymous with Pasadena as art and architecture. The Rose Bowl Stadium (1001 Rose Bowl Dr.; rosebowlstadium.com) was built in 1922 specifically to host national collegiate football and the Rose Bowl Game held every New Year’s Day. The stadium’s impressive pedigree includes hosting the 1932 and 1984 Olympic Games; five NFL Super Bowls; the 1994 World Cup; the 1999 Women’s World Cup and many other international soccer matches. As home field for the UCLA Bruins football program, spirited games take place September through November. Stadium tours allow you to go on the field and behind-the-scenes, seeing facilities like the press box and locker rooms. Another iconic local sports venue is Santa Anita Park (285 W. Huntington Dr., Arcadia; santaanita.com), where you can wager and watch thoroughbred races at the track built in 1934. Winter and spring are the primary seasons for live racing, and plenty of food and beverage amenities are available onsite to make a full day of it. Learn more about horseracing on one of the free guided tram tours through the stable areas.