Pasadena City Hall Guide: Photo Spots & Nearby Filming Locations
Castle-Like Pasadena City Hall & Nearby Filming Locations
Los Angeles has so many attractions that it can be hard to choose where to go.
Today I’ll introduce Pasadena City Hall—an effortlessly stylish photo spot that’s easy to reach from downtown LA—plus a few recommended sites nearby.
Although it’s popular, it’s not as packed as ultra-famous destinations like Griffith Observatory, so you can enjoy the area at a relaxed pace!
1. What Is Pasadena City Hall?
Pasadena is a city in Los Angeles County, California, located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles.
It’s roughly a 50-minute drive (about 28 miles) from LAX and about 20 minutes (around 10 miles) from downtown.
The Pasadena City Hall we’re introducing today is the city’s functioning municipal building.
Completed in 1927, this structure was built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, featuring luxurious ornamentation, half-round arches, a beautiful courtyard, and tiled roofs!
With its castle-like, elegant appearance, it’s one of the go-to spots for photography and leisurely strolls.
Check out Instagram for more details!
2. Pasadena’s History—A Key City Even During Wartime
Pasadena became an incorporated city in 1886.
At the time, Southern California was in the midst of a real-estate boom, and many affluent residents from the East Coast relocated to Pasadena.
Cultural growth and international recognition followed with the founding of the California Institute of Technology in 1917 and the construction of the Rose Bowl Stadium in 1922.
Like many cities, Pasadena was hit hard by the financial crisis on “Black Tuesday,” October 29, 1929, and many residents struggled.
In 1940, the Arroyo Seco Parkway—one of America’s first freeways and originally known as the “Pasadena Freeway”—opened, linking downtown Los Angeles with Pasadena and serving as a vital transportation route.
During World War II, the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena was involved in weapons research and development.
Of special note, in 1942 Caltech researchers founded the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which played a pivotal role in developing rocket technology.
In the post-war recovery period, Pasadena experienced suburbanization and expanded housing development.
From the late 1970s into the 1980s, historic buildings in the downtown area—now known as Old Pasadena—were preserved and the district was revitalized.
Having regained its vibrancy, Pasadena remains a highly popular area today.
3. How to Enjoy Pasadena City Hall
Park in the lot right in front of City Hall and stroll the grounds—highly recommended.
You’ll often see couples in wedding attire or people in princess-like gowns using the setting for photo shoots.
Dress up in something stylish yourself and have fun taking photos!
For more, check out the Instagram post!
4. The Cheesecake Factory Featured in *The Big Bang Theory*
*The Big Bang Theory* is set in Pasadena.
The hit series—winner of Emmys and Golden Globes—ran from 2007 to 2016.
In the show, Sheldon, Leonard, and Penny’s apartment is said to be in Pasadena (though the interior scenes were filmed on a studio set).
And yes—the Pasadena branch of the Cheesecake Factory where Penny worked really exists!
Enjoying a slice while soaking up the show’s vibe is fantastic.
I especially recommend the ultra-rich Oreo cheesecake—it was absolutely delicious!
For more, see the Instagram post!
5. Colorado Street Bridge
The Colorado Street Bridge was constructed in 1913 as a vital transportation link between Pasadena and Los Angeles.
It stretches about 1,486 feet (roughly 453 meters) long and stands around 150 feet (about 46 meters) high.
Now one of Pasadena’s landmarks, it’s also famous as a filming location for the 2016 movie *La La Land*!
6. Blue Bottle Coffee Pasadena
Blue Bottle, which already has several locations in Japan, also operates a shop here in Pasadena.
The café’s vibe fits perfectly with the stylish streetscape of Old Pasadena!
This time I tried a hot latte and an iced coffee!!
The aroma was outstanding, with just the right balance of bitterness and acidity—both drinks were absolutely delicious!
Be sure to drop in for a break while you explore!
See Instagram for more details!
7. The Gamble House
Built in 1908 for David Berry Gamble, this residence is known today as the Gamble House.
The property is now open to the public and hosts tours and special events!
Inside, you’ll find extensive use of rich wood, intricate woodcarvings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Fun fact: this house appeared as Doc Emmett Brown’s home in the 1985 film *Back to the Future*.
It’s a must-see spot for movie buffs!
8. In Conclusion
Pasadena offers a relaxed vibe and countless highlights, including famous filming locations!
Slip into a dress and snap photos at Pasadena City Hall, enjoy a tour of the filming sites, and take your time exploring this stylish city!
Pasadena also has a branch of the highly recommended Erewhon supermarket—be sure to check out the Instagram post, too!
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