A Pinnacle of the Arts and Crafts Movement

The Arts and Crafts movement, which emerged in the late 19th century, emphasized simplicity, natural materials, and handcrafted detail in response to industrial mass production. The Gamble House embodies these ideals with extraordinary attention to detail in every aspect of its design.

Built primarily of natural materials such as teak, mahogany, and oak, the house features custom-made furniture, hand-cut joinery, and intricate stained glass. From the wide overhanging eaves to the seamless indoor-outdoor integration, every element of the home was designed with harmony, function, and beauty in mind.

One of the most impressive features is the front door, made from a single slab of wood, intricately carved with botanical motifs. Inside, visitors are greeted by a grand staircase, paneled walls, and custom lighting fixtures—all thoughtfully coordinated to reflect the Greenes’ design philosophy.

A Living Museum

The Gamble House now operates as a museum managed by the University of Southern California’s School of Architecture. Guided tours allow guests to explore the home’s public and private rooms while learning about its construction, history, and the Greene brothers’ influence on American residential architecture.

Docents share fascinating stories about the family, architectural techniques, and the cultural significance of the Arts and Crafts movement. Special events, including seasonal tours and preservation lectures, enhance the educational experience for design students, history buffs, and casual visitors alike.

Preserving Beauty and Inspiring Generations

The Gamble House in Pasadena, CA offers more than a glimpse into the past—it’s a timeless celebration of craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Whether you’re passionate about architecture, interested in early 20th-century history, or simply looking for a place of beauty and inspiration, this National Historic Landmark is well worth a visit.

Step into The Gamble House and experience the elegance, innovation, and artistry that define one of America’s greatest architectural treasures.

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A Blend of Historic Charm and Modern Vibes

Old Pasadena is recognized for its beautifully restored late 19th and early 20th-century architecture. Many of its brick buildings have been lovingly preserved and repurposed, providing a charming backdrop to the bustling streets. As you stroll along Colorado Boulevard and its surrounding blocks, you’ll find historic facades housing everything from contemporary fashion shops to cozy cafes and art galleries.

The area’s transformation began in the 1980s as part of a major revitalization effort. Today, it stands as a model of historic preservation paired with economic growth. Old Pasadena is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and many of its buildings still reflect the city’s roots from its railroad and citrus industry days.

Shop, Dine, and Explore

Old Pasadena is a shopper’s paradise, offering a blend of big-name retailers like Apple and Anthropologie alongside independent boutiques and specialty stores. Whether you’re searching for handcrafted jewelry, vintage finds, or the latest fashion trends, there’s something for every style and budget.

Dining options are just as diverse. From farm-to-table restaurants and trendy bistros to international cuisine and dessert bars, food lovers will find plenty to savor. Outdoor patios, rooftop lounges, and inviting courtyards add to the area’s charm, making it a great spot to unwind and people-watch.

In addition to shopping and dining, the area hosts seasonal events, art walks, and live music that add energy and excitement year-round. Museums, theaters, and public art displays provide cultural enrichment that complements the district’s lively atmosphere.

Where Past and Present Meet

Old Pasadena, CA, is a shining example of how history can be preserved and celebrated while embracing modern life. With its walkable streets, rich cultural offerings, and stylish ambiance, it’s a place where every visit reveals something new.

Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time or rediscovering a local favorite, Old Pasadena invites you to slow down, look around, and experience the timeless appeal of a neighborhood that honors its past while living boldly in the present.

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A Museum Built for Play and Discovery

Kidspace is unlike traditional museums—it’s a place where kids are encouraged to touch, build, splash, and climb. The museum spans over 3.5 acres and features both indoor and outdoor exhibits that support developmental learning and imaginative exploration.

Inside, children can explore the Galvin Physics Forest, where science comes alive through large-scale exhibits like the Giant Lever and Bottle Rocket Launcher. The Imagination Workshop lets kids become engineers and inventors as they use real tools to create and test their own designs. In the Nature Exchange, children can bring in natural items they’ve collected—like rocks or shells—and trade them while learning fascinating facts about the environment.

Outdoors, the Arroyo Adventure area is a highlight. This immersive garden invites children to climb boulders, dam a stream, dig for fossils, and interact with nature in a safe and engaging environment. Water play areas, a trike track, and treehouse-style structures add to the excitement and encourage physical activity.

Learning Through Experience

Kidspace’s mission is rooted in the belief that play is essential to early childhood learning. Each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to support critical thinking, problem-solving, social interaction, and fine motor skills. The museum also offers a variety of programs throughout the year, including art workshops, storytime sessions, and science demonstrations tailored for children from toddlers to age 10.

Special events like Pumpkin Festival in the fall and Butterfly Season in the spring give families even more reasons to return and engage with the museum throughout the year.

A Place to Grow, Imagine, and Connect

Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena, CA is more than just a fun day out—it’s a place where children can be active participants in their own learning journey. By blending science, art, and nature in a play-based setting, the museum helps kids develop essential life skills while having fun.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a favorite exhibit, Kidspace promises a joyful experience that fuels imagination and fosters lifelong learning.

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A Rich and Diverse Collection

The Norton Simon Museum houses a remarkable array of artwork from various time periods and regions. The European collection features pieces from the Renaissance through the 20th century, with works by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Degas, Raphael, and Picasso, among others. Visitors can admire everything from still-life paintings and religious altarpieces to expressive portraits and impressionist scenes.

In addition to Western art, the museum showcases an extensive collection of South and Southeast Asian sculptures, many of which date back over a thousand years. These include delicately carved representations of deities from India, Cambodia, and Nepal—offering a deep cultural and spiritual context that enriches the overall museum experience.

The museum also embraces 20th-century modernism, with notable works by Matisse, Braque, and Warhol displayed alongside rotating exhibitions that highlight contemporary artists and new perspectives.

Architecture and Garden Serenity

Designed with a focus on elegance and tranquility, the museum’s layout invites guests to explore at their own pace. Natural lighting, open gallery spaces, and thoughtful presentation create an inviting atmosphere for reflection and appreciation.

A highlight of any visit is the museum’s sculpture garden, which blends nature and artistry in a peaceful outdoor setting. Featuring works by Rodin and Henry Moore among lush landscaping and lily ponds, the garden offers a serene escape that complements the indoor galleries.

An Experience Worth Revisiting

The Norton Simon Museum isn’t just a place to view art—it’s a place to connect with it. Educational programs, docent-led tours, film screenings, and special exhibitions provide ongoing opportunities for deeper engagement.

Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a casual visitor, a trip to the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, CA offers an unforgettable experience that blends beauty, history, and inspiration. Take time to explore this cultural gem and discover how art across centuries continues to move and connect us.

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