Welcome to South Pasadena
A charming, community-oriented town full of historic character
South Pasadena has a unique small-town feel that pulls heavily from its historic character and charming community. It’s a place where everyone is a neighbor and a friend. There’s plenty to do here, from incredible restaurants to the many community events throughout the year. And residents are able to get out and enjoy the incredible weather at the city’s many beautifully-kept parks.
The community of South Pasadena voted to incorporate as a city in 1988, and its boundaries have remained much the same over the past century and a half. It began to boom as a destination for both visitors and residents when the Pacific Electric Short Line was completed, making it easily accessible to Downtown Los Angeles.
It remains one of the best-preserved cities in the area with its charming residential area and desirable, historic downtown. South Pasadena has many buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. There are lots of gorgeous single-family homes, the majority Craftsmans with Mid-Century and other styles mixed in. Townhomes and condos round out the market, making sure South Pasadena has something for everyone.
What to Love
- Family-friendly community with incredible schools
- Quiet neighborhoods full of stunning historic homes
- Charming downtown area full of shops and restaurants
Local Lifestyle
South Pasadena is a quiet and community-oriented city. With a charming small-town atmosphere, it’s a pocket of serenity nestled between Downtown Los Angeles and the cultural hub of Pasadena. It’s an easy commute to both places, giving South Pasadenans easy access to the thriving job markets, luxury shopping, and major events. However, South Pasadena has made its own name for shopping and dining and things to do, so residents don’t have to travel outside of its borders to find excitement and entertainment.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The businesses of South Pasadena are deeply rooted in the community, and many of them have been staples for a long time. Along Mission Street, there’s a lively array of favorites for locals to enjoy.
Enjoy New York Style pizza sold by the slice and in huge mega-pies at Mamma’s Brick Oven. Enjoy Southern hospitality and authentic barbecue at charming local favorite, Gus’s BBQ. A local favorite with a modern vibe, Mike & Anne’s has a menu full of American dishes and a patio that’s perfect for enjoyment all year round. Vegan-friendly Modan Artisanal Ramen gives a modern twist to traditional Japanese ramen. Step back in time at Fair Oaks Pharmacy & Soda Fountain, a retro spot with an old-school soda fountain and a menu full of sandwiches and ice cream.
Bullseye Glass Co. carries specialty glass, glass blowing essentials, and has workshops for those who want to learn the art. Walking down the aisles of Bristol Farms is less of a grocery trip and more a vacation to a world of incredible ingredients and local goods. South Pasadena also has a large Trader Joe’s. For upscale fashion in a boutique experience, Camille’s has been dressing the stylish of South Pasadena since the ‘90s. Rue de Mimo is a style haven born from extensive travels and its founders’ love of global fashion.
Things to Do
Art and activities abound in this charming city, with everything from outdoor concerts to horse camps and renowned equestrian facilities. There’s something to do for all ages and interests in South Pasadena.
Enjoy the sunshine at Garfield Park, a quintessential neighborhood spot with all the classic park favorites like playgrounds and walking trails, but with added charm like a rose garden and a summer concert series. South Pawsadena Dog Park is a large, fenced space where both dogs and their humans can make friends. A challenging course tucked away in the neighborhood and bordered with gorgeous trees awaits at Arroyo Seco Trail & Golf Course. Board your horse or take classes at the riding academy San Pascual Stables, which is a world-class jumper-hunter training facility.
Connect with the community and take home local goods and fresh produce every Thursday at South Pasadena Farmers Market. Locals come out in droves for the annual Summer Art Crawl, where local vendors put up stands, businesses have sales, musicians perform, and general merriment cloaks the streets of the business district. Rialto Theater is an iconic South Pas location that hosts a church on Sundays and other events throughout the week. A wonderful gathering spot, the beauty of South Pasadena Library is matched by its incredible community programs and free public amenities.
Schools
