Pasadena Museum of History
Explore Pasadena's rich past at the historic Fenyes Mansion, beautiful gardens, and engaging exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Pasadena Museum of History
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Pasadena's rich past at the historic Fenyes Mansion, beautiful gardens, and engaging exhibitions.
"The Fenyes Mansion tour is the star, with beautiful rooms and stories that tie into early Pasadena."
📸 Book Photoshoot Spots Early
Wedding and event photography spots book up fast! Reserve your date well in advance.
🚶♀️ Take the Fenyes Mansion Tour
It's the highlight! Learn about Eva Fenyes and early Pasadena history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fenyes Mansion Tour
Pasadena Museum of History
Step back in time exploring the beautiful rooms and stories of early Pasadena and Eva Fenyes's artistic contributions.
Rotating Exhibits
Pasadena Museum of History
Discover engaging exhibitions, from film history connections to local art and cultural retrospectives.
Beautiful Grounds & Gardens
Pasadena Museum of History
Enjoy a peaceful afternoon amidst calm grounds with large shade trees and a surprisingly beautiful garden.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Respect the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Book Photoshoot Spots Early
Wedding and event photography spots book up fast! Reserve your date well in advance.
🚶♀️ Take the Fenyes Mansion Tour
It's the highlight! Learn about Eva Fenyes and early Pasadena history. +1
🏛️ Be Respectful of History
This is a museum, not a playground. Treat exhibits with care.
🌳 Enjoy the Gardens
The grounds offer a serene escape and are surprisingly beautiful.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Book Photoshoot Spots Early
Wedding and event photography spots book up fast! Reserve your date well in advance.
🚶♀️ Take the Fenyes Mansion Tour
It's the highlight! Learn about Eva Fenyes and early Pasadena history. +1
🏛️ Be Respectful of History
This is a museum, not a playground. Treat exhibits with care.
🌳 Enjoy the Gardens
The grounds offer a serene escape and are surprisingly beautiful.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Park in the lot shared with the history center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Pasadena Museum of History for its beautiful architecture, particularly the Fenyes Mansion, and its serene grounds. The rotating exhibits are often found to be engaging, and the knowledgeable staff enhance the experience. However, some find the museum itself to be a bit sparse if not attending a specific event or tour.
"This place is rad. It’s really beautiful. We came here for a photoshoot.
They have really great rooms and the architecture and texturing is awesome.
I heard they do night tours throughout the museum, that would be sick.
Just remember one thing though, BE RESPECTFUL. THIS IS A MUSEUM AND IT HAS HISTORY. don’t be a jerk. It’ll cost you!"
Hermes Arriola
"Great place to take wedding pictures. But you have to reserve way ahead of time otherwise it will be booked on your wedding day."
Emil Gasparian
"The Fenyes Mansion tour is the star, with beautiful rooms and stories that tie into early Pasadena. The museum rotates exhibits that are more interesting than you might expect. Parking is free in the lot shared with the history center. The grounds are calm, with big shade trees. It’s a civilized way to spend an afternoon, especially paired with coffee on Orange Grove after. Staff are knowledgeable without being stuffy"
Jeremy Spedington
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pasadena Museum of History is located at 470 W Walnut St, Pasadena, CA 91103. It's accessible by car, with free parking available in the lot shared with the history center. Public transportation options are also available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area.
Yes, there is free parking available in the lot shared with the history center.
Driving is convenient, especially if you're coming from other parts of Los Angeles County. Public transport is an option, but may require transfers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Museum hours can vary, and it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information. Some exhibits may have specific viewing times.
Admission prices can vary, especially if you're opting for a guided tour like the Fenyes Mansion tour, which often includes general museum admission. Check their website for current pricing.
It's highly recommended to book tickets or tours in advance, especially for popular attractions like the Fenyes Mansion tour or if you plan to visit during a special event.
Yes, the museum frequently rotates exhibits, covering diverse topics like film history, local art, and cultural retrospectives.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or group rates is typically available on the museum's official website. It's always worth checking for any available promotions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum features the historic Fenyes Mansion with guided tours, rotating exhibitions on local history and culture, and beautiful grounds and gardens. +1
Absolutely! The Fenyes Mansion tour is often cited as the highlight, offering insights into early Pasadena and the life of Eva Fenyes. +1
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography and professional shoots may have restrictions or require special permits. Be sure to check the museum's policy.
Yes, guided tours are available, most notably for the Fenyes Mansion. These tours provide in-depth historical context and stories.
While the museum focuses on history, the grounds and some exhibits might appeal to older children. For younger kids, the nearby Kidspace Children's Museum is a more interactive option.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the museum's grounds and historic architecture make it a popular spot for wedding photography. However, you must reserve these spots well in advance as they book up quickly.
The Fenyes Mansion exterior and interior, along with the gardens and architectural details, offer beautiful photo opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but it's always wise to confirm specific rules regarding flash or tripods with the museum staff.
Wedding photography, engagement shoots, and general aesthetic photos capturing the historic architecture are very popular.
It's recommended to book your photoshoot reservation as far in advance as possible, especially for peak wedding seasons, to secure your desired date.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with younger children seeking more interactive experiences, the Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena is a highly recommended alternative. It's designed for hands-on learning and play, catering specifically to younger age groups with climbing structures, water play, and STEM activities.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts & Event Planners
It is crucial to book your photoshoot reservation well in advance, as these prime spots are in high demand and can be booked up months ahead, especially during peak seasons. Understanding and adhering to the museum's photography policies is also important to ensure a smooth experience.
📚 History Buffs & Researchers
The museum also houses a research library and archives, making it an invaluable resource for genealogists, historians, and anyone looking to delve deeper into the San Gabriel Valley's past. Exploring the rotating exhibits can also offer new perspectives on regional history and culture.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Fenyes Mansion
Many visitors find the Fenyes Mansion tour to be the most rewarding part of their visit. The knowledgeable docents bring the history to life, sharing anecdotes and details that make the experience truly immersive. It's a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era and understand how figures like Eva Fenyes shaped the cultural landscape of Pasadena. The preservation of the mansion is exceptional, allowing guests to feel as though they've stepped directly into history.
Beyond the mansion itself, the grounds and gardens surrounding it provide a tranquil setting. These areas are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a peaceful contrast to the historical interiors. The combination of the mansion tour and the serene outdoor spaces makes for a well-rounded and enriching visit.
Pasadena's Rich History and Culture
+1The museum's rotating exhibitions are a key feature, ensuring there's always something new to discover. These exhibits can range from deep dives into specific historical periods, like the connection between Pasadena and the film industry, to celebrations of local artists and cultural movements. The museum also serves as a research library and archives, providing valuable resources for those interested in genealogical or historical research.
+1Events and programs are frequently hosted, fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for deeper engagement with local history. These can include lectures, workshops, and celebrations that highlight different facets of Pasadena's heritage.
+1
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