Welcome to South Pasadena
A small, peaceful town full of historical landmarks
South Pasadena is your picture-perfect suburb. The people who live here are friendly and charming, the houses are quaint, and the community spaces are well-maintained and frequented by all. It is the epitome of small-town charm without actually being too small. It’s close to the bustle of Pasadena and a quick train ride away from Downtown LA.
South Pasadena is well-known for having many of the oldest historical landmarks in the San Gabriel Valley. These landmarks range from 19th-century homes built by Greene & Greene landmark to places like the
Rialto Theater, which originally played vaudeville and live-orchestrated films in the 1920s and is now one of the last single-screen movie theaters in Southern California.
Staying true to its preservation efforts, South Pasadena has many original and restored homes from the 19th and early 20th centuries. These single-family craftsman homes are charming and lend to the small-town feel.
What to Love
- An abundance of historical landmarks
- Beautifully maintained outdoor spaces
- Local flair and small-town charm
People & Lifestyle
South Pasadena is not only peaceful and historic — it’s also extremely family-friendly. The schools here are wonderful, and the neighborhoods are quiet, making it an ideal place for young families. Its proximity to the businesses of Pasadena makes it great for those looking for a short commute to work. The easy drive or train ride leaves plenty of time to enjoy all the neighborhood has to offer.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
South Pasadena’s commercial districts are full of nostalgic charm, local flair, and a deep sense of community. The businesses here have been around for decades, and the locals would be loath to trade them for bigger stores.
If you’re strolling down Mission Street, stop by Adobe Design to pick out a piece from their eclectic jewelry and home design offerings. Nearby, Hotbox Vintage offers a wide array of incredible clothes and jewelry. Pick up bread, pastries, and cakes at La Monarca Bakery. While you’re there, definitely treat yourself to a cup of their delicious Mexican hot chocolate.
If you’re looking for a retro diner vibe, head over to Twohey’s for a delicious burger and a delightfully nostalgic fudge sundae. Keep going with the nostalgia by visiting the charming ice cream counter at Fair Oaks Pharmacy. Another local favorite, Mike & Anne’s is one of those places that transitions beautifully from day to night. Meet up with a friend for lunch, or drink a sultry cocktail in the dim glow after dark.
Things to Do
South Pasadena feels like a small town, full of charm and laden with community events and spaces. The locals are dedicated to maintaining its history and beauty while also making it one of the best places to live in the area.
South Pasadena has worked hard to maintain its beauty and history, and one of those dedicated spaces is the wildlife preserve at Nature Park. For a wholesome neighborhood park experience, visit Garfield Park. Here you’ll have access to tennis courts, gazebos, and acres of well-maintained park space.
Schools
South Pasadena is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
● Marengo Elementary, K-5
● South Pasadena Middle School, 6-8
● South Pasadena High School, 9-12
Learn about other neighborhoods:
Welcome to South Pasadena
A small, peaceful town full of historical landmarks
South Pasadena is your picture-perfect suburb. The people who live here are friendly and charming, the houses are quaint, and the community spaces are well-maintained and frequented by all. It is the epitome of small-town charm without actually being too small. It’s close to the bustle of Pasadena and a quick train ride away from Downtown LA.
South Pasadena is well-known for having many of the oldest historical landmarks in the San Gabriel Valley. These landmarks range from 19th-century homes built by Greene & Greene landmark to places like the Rialto Theater, which originally played vaudeville and live-orchestrated films in the 1920s and is now one of the last single-screen movie theaters in Southern California.
Staying true to its preservation efforts, South Pasadena has many original and restored homes from the 19th and early 20th centuries. These single-family craftsman homes are charming and lend to the small-town feel.
What to Love
An abundance of historical landmarks
Beautifully maintained outdoor spaces
Local flair and small-town charm
People & Lifestyle
South Pasadena is not only peaceful and historic — it’s also extremely family-friendly. The schools here are wonderful, and the neighborhoods are quiet, making it an ideal place for young families. Its proximity to the businesses of Pasadena makes it great for those looking for a short commute to work. The easy drive or train ride leaves plenty of time to enjoy all the neighborhood has to offer.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
South Pasadena’s commercial districts are full of nostalgic charm, local flair, and a deep sense of community. The businesses here have been around for decades, and the locals would be loath to trade them for bigger stores.
If you’re strolling down Mission Street, stop by Adobe Design to pick out a piece from their eclectic jewelry and home design offerings. Nearby, Hotbox Vintage offers a wide array of incredible clothes and jewelry. Pick up bread, pastries, and cakes at La Monarca Bakery. While you’re there, definitely treat yourself to a cup of their delicious Mexican hot chocolate.
If you’re looking for a retro diner vibe, head over to Twohey’s for a delicious burger and a delightfully nostalgic fudge sundae. Keep going with the nostalgia by visiting the charming ice cream counter at Fair Oaks Pharmacy. Another local favorite, Mike & Anne’s is one of those places that transitions beautifully from day to night. Meet up with a friend for lunch, or drink a sultry cocktail in the dim glow after dark.
Things to Do
South Pasadena feels like a small town, full of charm and laden with community events and spaces. The locals are dedicated to maintaining its history and beauty while also making it one of the best places to live in the area.
Every Thursday in historic South Pasadena, locals can find organic produce and special vendors at the South Pasadena Farmers’ Market. The small but dedicated South Pasadena Historical Museum hosts many events throughout the year, including a historical home tour.
South Pasadena has worked hard to maintain its beauty and history, and one of those dedicated spaces is the wildlife preserve at Nature Park. For a wholesome neighborhood park experience, visit Garfield Park. Here you’ll have access to tennis courts, gazebos, and acres of well-maintained park space.
Schools
South Pasadena is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
● Marengo Elementary, K-5
● South Pasadena Middle School, 6-8
● South Pasadena High School, 9-12
Learn about other neighborhoods:
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