Pasadena City Hall
As we head out to the polls to vote this week, I thought it would be fun to stroll the grounds of one of our local historic government buildings…so come join me at the beautiful Pasadena City Hall.
On the Silver Screen
If you're not local to California but this building looks familiar, you might recognize the front facade as Pawnee Indiana’s City Hall building from the NBC comedy Parks and Recreation. In fact Pasadena City Hall has long been a favorite Hollywood filming location dating all the way back to Charlie Chaplin in the 1940s. You can also see this iconic spot make appearances in the feature films A Cinderella Story and Beverly Hills Cop 2.
Architecture
Built in 1927, this 170,000 square-foot building was designed by acclaimed architects Bakewell and Brown, who also designed San Francisco City Hall. Influenced by Italian Renaissance architecture, the central courtyard and Baroque style cast-stone fountain are highlights here along with the crowning centerpiece – the six story, red tiled dome that rises over 200 ft high.
Know Before You Go
• City Hall is often busy and bustling during the week, but if you come early in the morning on the weekend it’s often quiet and secluded.
• Plenty of metered parking is available in front of the building. However, if you want to avoid the fees, plan your visit on a Sunday or look for free parking on the street around 225 E. Union Street (just a few blocks away).
• The outside grounds are open both before and after official building hours. The grounds, however, are closed from 9pm-7am according to posted signs.
• While this has long been a popular spot for photographers, photography permits are now needed for any professional shoots, such as wedding, engagement, graduation etc.
In Summary & Behind the Blog Video
With plenty of parking and open paths to roam, make sure to stop at this castle-like building when you visit Pasadena. Thanks for joining me here today, and don’t forget to get out and vote (even if it can’t be for Leslie Knope 😉). Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go!
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