Pasadena, settled by a group of farmers from Indiana in the 1870s, originally developed along the Arroyo Seco. The Pasadena Playhouse Historic District contains approximately 34 buildings, which represent the eastward growth of the City’s urban core during the 1920s and 1930s, after Pasadena’s economy had changed from agriculture to tourism. Development of this area was spurred by the construction of Pasadena’s grand and imposing Civic Center in the 1920s, prompting the construction of residential, religious and cultural facilities in the district. This walking tour includes the Scottish Rite Temple, the United Artist Theater, the Pasadena Playhouse, the Professional Building (Pasadena’s only example of Gothic revival office building architecture) and the Bank of the West building, to name a few.

The tour will conclude with rooftop views from the brand-new AC Hotel, offering a stunning panorama of the entire Playhouse Village—perfect for photos! As a special bonus, tour participants will receive a 10% discount at the AC Café or AC Kitchen, located on the hotel’s ground floor, making for a delicious and relaxing way to wrap up your experience.

Tours last approximately 1.5 hours with a walking distance of approximately 1 mile.