Probably the best city hall I've ever seen. Thought we were in Europe viewing some classic buildings. It is beautifully lit at night.
Strolling around the Pasadena civic center on a “winter-afternoon” may show some of what made the City of Angels famous just 70/60 years ago. Palms and blooming trees amidst “old world” bell towers and a monumental City Hall inspired by Palladio and Papal Rome.The white façade glowing in the afternoon sun and some slightly snow covered mountains in the background and everything so clean. One feels an urban spirit and a lot of citizen pride here. Virtues, for me still felt in Pasaden more than anywhere else in the L.A. area. Leaving the picture perfect backdrop behind and walking down Union Street turned out a nice contrast to – for me – slightly disappointing “Paseo Colorado”.On a sunny, winter-afternoons “Old Pasadena” is one of the better little urban walks you can take in L.A.
Drive up and take a picture in the front. If you want to park (parking is a nightmare around City Hall) and go inside the courtyard is also beautiful. I suggest just driving getting the iconic shot and moving on unless you see a parking spot.
The architecture and center of government is beautiful and open for business. The several centers combined make a neighborhood of civil buildings. Evening walks are allowed and photographers are welcome.
In my opinion, Pasadena, California has the best City Hall. It's absolutely gorgeous and was spruced up a few years ago. It's located right by the courthouse and the building is beautiful! There's also a nice patio garden inside, definitely worth seeing. Right now, there's of course also a lit up Christmas tree for all to enjoy. I've seen many city halls, but I think Pasadena by far has the nicest looking one!!!
The historic architecture was great. It took a little while to navigate to the offices I was looking for but worth the "stroll".
Beautiful architectural piece but try to find help. Good luckTook me half hour to be told I had to go elsewhere for services.
The City of Pasadena City Hall is very pretty from the outside and some amazing pictures were taken while visiting. It is a nice spot to stop at.
I love 2 things most about this building: 1- the recent restoration is exquisite. I am so glad it is still being used as originally intended. What you won't see is the impressive neoprene rollers it sits on to save it from earthquake damage. Installing them under a historic structure was a real challenge. Also, the lighting at night really enhances the decoration. Be sure to see it after dark. 2- it is a great example of a civic structure for a small town that began with great aspirations and a highly cultured early population. There is a perfection of scale and monumentality, a reluctance to overreach, and an expression of elegant humility that I never get tired of.
Easy walk from downtown Pasadena and lots of shops to visit along the way. Its a beautiful place to take photos. Free to the public.