Pasadena Area (continued)

Old Pasadena is the site of the famous New Year’s Day parade, The Tournament of Roses. Colorado Boulevard is the main thoroughfare of Old Pasadena, lined with more than 100 restaurants and clubs and 200 stores and shops. Old Pasadena is a great destination if you are looking for a charming town center to window-shop, dine, or enjoy some evening entertainment at the many theaters, cinemas, and art galleries.

The Rose Bowl Stadium, home of the famous Rose Bowl Game, is the oldest college football bowl game in existence, held on New Year’s Day since 1923 at the Rose Bowl Stadium. Though the Rose Bowl is mainly known for the New Year’s Day football game, other events are hosted here. For instance, it’s home to UCLA football and various prestigious world cup and professional sporting events. The Rose Bowl is at 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena, CA 91103. Phone: 626-577-3100. 

The Norton Simon Museum of Art is recognized as one of Pasadena’s landmarks. It houses private collections of European, American, and Asian art covering more than 2,000 years. The Norton Simon Museum includes rare works by artists such as Rembrandt, Goya, and Picasso. Museum hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 12:00 pm–6:00 pm; Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 am–8:00 pm. Admission: $12/adult; $9/ages 62+; under 18 is free (admission is free for all on the first Friday of every month from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm). The Norton Simon Museum of Art, 411 West Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91105. Phone: 626-449-6840. 

Hollywood/Beverly Hills

The El Capitan Theatre was restored by the Walt Disney Company. It has the original grandeur of the classic movie palaces with a glittering marquee, a box office with ornate, gold woodwork, a plush interior with gold, rococo ceilings, and opera boxes. Colored spotlights illuminate the three layers of glittering curtains. Disney movie presentations are often preceded by a live stage show, but the prices are high: $18–$28/adults and $15/kids. VIP admission is $28 but includes balcony seats and popcorn. Close parking lots and garages cost $2–$15. El Capitan is located at 6838 Hollywood Blvd. Phone: 800-347-6396. While you’re there, check out Disney’s Studio Store and Ghirardelli Soda Fountain next door.