Ever since the IPIC closed down, I was on the hunt for a new, local theatre where I can sit down…read morecomfortably for a matinee showing. I didn't have to search very far because the Landmark Theatre filled the gap nicely. Sure, it feels like walking a tightrope to balance my own drink and glizzy to my seat everytime and I didn't have my very own pod to cocoon myself in, but their unlimited refill soda machine and friendly concession/ticketing staff more than makes up for the luxury conveniences I was once accustomed to :~D. Also, they have the best all-beef hot dog and seasoned fries in the game (perfect plumpness, length, and flavor) and where else can I get a Coke Zero Cherry?!?! Doing my best to support my local cinema and so should you.

This Landmark Theatre location is the one I visit the most, and it's my preferred Landmark…read morelocation. They offer a selection of the latest releases (including live Metropolitan Opera simulcasts), and they also show retro programming on Tuesdays. I can usually find free street parking in walking distance, and there's also a nearby city lot where you can pay by the hour depending on how long you need to park. The theaters have reclinable seats that are comfortable and plush. They also offer a selection of snacks and drinks (including alcohol) though I find their popcorn's texture to be mediocre. There can sometimes be some noise bleeding into a theater that's near a room playing a particularly loud movie, but I generally have a good movie watching experience here.

Long and difficult hike but worth the view! About 10 miles…read moreround trip from Cobb Estate. Bring a hat, lots of water, snacks, sunscreen, and BUG SPRAY. Me and my husband started around 7:30am and finished the whole hike around 1pm at a steady pace with about an hour break when we got to Inspiration Point. The hike from Cobb Estate to Echo Mountain was a breeze for us, but the hike from there to Inspiration was a whole other story. I recommend wearing long pants as the second half of the hiking path isn't as clear and pretty narrow on some parts. We took our time and treaded lightly but still got some minor scratches on our legs from all of the branches and leaves. My husband started getting irritated from walking into all of the spider webs lol. Not sure if the actual hike was 2 miles from Echo Mountain because it felt so much longer than that. We started getting really tired near the end from all the incline. We almost gave up until my husband saw the view of Inspiration Point. Once we got there, the views made it all worth it! Would we do it again? Maaaaaybe lol.

Updated review: I've been to Inspiration Point twice now, most recently after the great Los Angeles…read more"blizzard" of early 2023. And how super intense and cool (figuratively and literally) it was! Total about 10mi from the top of Lake - Echo Mountain - Castle Canyon trail - Inspiration Point - Sam Merrill trail - Echo Mountain and back down to Lake. DEFINITELY a strenuous hike and would highly recommend hiking poles, sunscreen, water, and snacks! The view is incredible, especially with tons of fresh snow everywhere. Hiked this early March 2023 and the Castle Canyon trail leading off from Echo Mountain (a decent hike in its own right) is pretty challenging, if not a bit brutal in some areas: slippery snow, downed trees and bushes blocking the path, and a heavy incline. Again, highly recommend poles. Once at Inspiration Point the view is phenomenal. The Pacific Ocean, Palos Verdes, Catalina Island, and even Anaheim and Irvine are all visible from the top, and downtown LA too of course. Lots of picnic benches and photo-op-worthy view finders for major Southern California sites. Gorgeous San Gabriel mountains in the background. The Sam Merrill trail leading down the backside of the mountain (and then curving back around to the south/west) is much more tame (but still a bit precarious with 2+ feet of snow) and very sun-exposed all the way back to Echo Mountain. All in all probably one of the more butt-kicking Los Angeles hike. Takes about 4-5hrs round trip depending on your pace.

What a beautiful place to walk around and enjoy the grounds. It is a private property so make sure…read moreto follow the rules and don't litter. Ambassador gardens is a luxury residential community with beautiful homes and condos. The grounds are beautiful with big trees, water features and seating areas. We even saw turtles and big birds by the waterfall. Really lovely place to take a stroll at. We parked on Green Street and walked towards the ambassador auditorium... see my videos and pictures. So pretty.

Ambassador Mansions & Gardens is a very quiet, peaceful, and truly beautiful place. It's hidden…read morebetween buildings, and if you don't know it's there, you might easily miss it -- which makes it feel like a secret garden in the middle of the city. The territory is incredibly well maintained, with huge mature trees, beautiful flowers, fountains, mini waterfalls, and small ponds where you can see fish and turtles. There is also a lovely grassy area in the center where you can sit, relax, or have a small picnic. Geese walk freely around the gardens, and colorful parrots fly overhead, adding even more charm to the atmosphere. In April, the garden looks especially stunning -- the pergola and trees are in full bloom (I wish I remembered the names of those gorgeous flowers!), and the whole place feels alive and magical. Honestly, this garden is beautiful in any season of the year. You can come here with dogs, which is a big plus, but it's important to respect the property rules: pets must be on a leash, owners are responsible for cleanup, professional photography requires a permit, and activities like skateboarding, drinking alcohol, or organized sports events are not allowed. These rules help preserve the calm and cleanliness of the space. There is also a secondary school located on the property, which adds to the unique character of the place. Parking-wise, we were able to find free street parking nearby without any issues. This is a perfect spot to slow down, enjoy nature, and escape the city noise for a while. Highly recommended for a peaceful walk or a quiet moment surrounded by beauty.

Visited once and was a tad windy. Did get a creepy feeling at some points. Best part was that you…read morecan hear the wind coming before it hits you. Good place for a hike or walk. Can't wait to visit and make it to the top.

Local hike with tons of varying trails.I wouldn't recommending coming here on a weekend because of…read morehow narrow the trail is unless you want to stop and wait for people.

The Gamble House sits at the pinnacle of craftsman style architecture and is an absolute must…read morepilgrimage museum for all fans of architecture. It is a beautiful example of the genre and is meticulously maintained by its docents. It also represents the very DNA of Pasadena residential architecture and it's influential style echoes throughout the city. A visit here is fun and you will learn about the history of Pasadena too. The tour takes about an hour and was throughly enjoyable. After your tour you and also spend time in the lovely adjoining gardens. Double highly recommend.

JUST AMAZING tour with docents who not only give details but actually care about the property…read more I was lucky to get a spot the day before. 100 out of 10 Oh and the bookstore shop is a must

Millard House, also known as La Miniatura, is a textile block house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright…read moreand built in 1923 in Pasadena, California. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. It's a private residential house. NO public tour. Unless you're a family friend. Ha! Visitors can only ogle it from the outside street; you can do a drive by or walk by the house gate. It still a cool landmark. Overall, an interesting Pasadena landmark in an upper class neighborhood.

This is a very cool house, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Unfortunately, you can only see the…read morefront of it from the street, driving by. There are no tours available because someone owns it and lives in it now. Still very neat to see. I can only hope that one day the owner gives it to the city to become a museum.

A very nice and charming home in a quiet and peaceful neighborhood in South Pasadena that is…read morefamously known as Pee-Wee Herman's house :D ! Interestingly, according to Zillow, this house was built in 1922. So it is a little over 100 years old. It was our first time ever visiting. But it brought back wonderful childhood memories of watching his show, even though this was actually featured in the Pee-Wee Herman movie that came out in 1985 :) ! You can only take photos outside. But we were totally fine with that since the house exterior itself is really cute :) ! You can't go inside because it is currently owned and I believe it is currently being rented out. So I think there are current tenants living there. He was truly one of a kind :) ! May he rest in peace and no longer suffer after a long battle with cancer.

We Stopped by the House from Pee-wee's Big Adventure…read more Fyi the secret lever for the bike room is not there. I'm going to have to go to Francis' house next, though I believe the Buxton's live in a gated community. I hope you find a creative endeavor that makes you feel like a kid. This movie helped inspire Googy. Cheers. I do feel bad for the people who live here because even though it brought me joy to see the house, I bet they get too many visitors. Please don't trespass or bother these people.

We stopped by the iconic Colorado Street Bridge while exploring Pasadena, and it's easily one of…read morethe most photogenic spots in the city. The massive arches, classic design, and sweeping views make it a must-visit whether you're walking, taking photos, or just enjoying a quiet moment outdoors. Film fans will instantly recognize it as a filming location from La La Land, which adds a fun Hollywood touch to the experience. Standing beneath the bridge and looking up really highlights its scale and craftsmanship--especially with the light and shadows shifting throughout the day. The area underneath and around the bridge is peaceful and well-kept, with plenty of spots to stop and admire the architecture from different perspectives. Near the public restroom and parking lot, there's also a clear view of what used to be the historic Vista del Arroyo Hotel, now the Richard H. Chambers United States Court of Appeals, which adds another layer of history to the visit. It's a great stop whether you're a local, visiting Pasadena for the first time, or just exploring with a camera in hand. Between the scenery, history, and movie connection, this is an easy 5-star spot to recommend.

An Iconic Pasadena Landmark with Timeless Beauty…read more The Colorado Street Bridge is a true architectural gem--elegant, historic, and absolutely stunning from every angle. Built in 1913, this Beaux-Arts style bridge gracefully spans the Arroyo Seco and remains one of Pasadena's most beloved and photogenic landmarks. Walking across the bridge is a beautiful experience, especially around sunset when the vintage streetlamps begin to glow and the San Gabriel Mountains light up in the background. The gentle curve and soaring arches give the whole structure a romantic, almost cinematic feel. It's no wonder it's been featured in films and local lore for generations. Pro tip: Head down to Desiderio Neighborhood Park, directly below the bridge, for incredible views of the full span and those magnificent arches. It's one of the best vantage points for appreciating the bridge's scale and design--and perfect for photos. From there, you can also connect to the Arroyo Seco walking paths for even more scenic exploration. There's easy pedestrian access via Defenders Park, and parking nearby isn't too difficult. While safety fencing has been added in recent years, it doesn't take away much from the overall experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting Pasadena, the Colorado Street Bridge is a must-see--romantic, historic, and absolutely unforgettable. One of those rare spots that feels magical every time you visit.

A MUST if you're a fan of the Halloween movie series, a fan of horror or "spooky things" in…read moregeneral, or if you really want to get into that Halloween season vibe. Especially if you're already in this side of South Pasadena, it's worth a visit. Lots of free parking all around the neighborhood and it's near the train station too if you're thinking of getting doing public transportation. There's shops, restaurants, and cafes there too if you want to spend the some time in the area and definitely check out Sugar Mynt Gallery too. Once in awhile they have walking tours so you can see the iconic hedge, go take pics at the Stroud house, and learn some trivia and info about the movie. For the actual house itself, it's someone's private property so definitely be respectful since I've heard them mald at people before. Take pictures from the outside, don't disturb the occupants. Pictures from the across the railroad give a nice ambience to it too. The unique architecture (if you think about it in terms of the cookie cutter copy pastes houses in California), the baby blue paint, it's so nice to look at regardless of the movie. Sticks out nicely.

We went touristing around Pasadena and South Pasadena last Saturday. As huge horror movie nerds we…read morefound out about the Michael Myers house and had to go and see. We were disappointed to find out it was closed on Saturday so we will try again on our next trip to Pasadena. There is apparently a tour you can buy tickets for and go around in the house. Not sure about the details though. There wasn't much information on it. We instead just took a bunch of pictures on the porch and went next door to The SugarMynt Gallery.

You've fooled them, haven't you Michael? But not me. Blimey!!…read more If you're a fan of HALLOWEEN movie then you're on for a surprise. This is the place where a scene from Halloween was filmed at Montrose Avenue (hedge) in South Pasadena, CA. Micheal Myers peers out from behind this hedge as Laurie and Annie approach. I bet not too many people know this iconic scene. Now I spilled the beans. Lol. :D Maybe next time I'll play the character this year's Halloween. Trick or treat! Hahaha! Thank you street residents for indulging us fans (locals & visitors). And not calling the SPPD on us as we walk by and take photos. :D #ILoveSoPas #PasadenaRules

I will continue my journey through the original Halloween locations that you can find in South…read morePasadena. The famous Hedge where Michael Myers lurks behind is a few blocks away from the other houses. We walked to it, about 20 minutes, but we do walk like crazy so I know most people will drive. 5 minutes drive in a residential neighborhood, plenty of street parking. The Hedge looks the same, we clowned around a bit to take some photos of my husband playing Michael Myers and no, he's not that creepy. People live in that house so be respectful of their privacy. It is great to see all these locations so well preserved after so many years since they shot the original Halloween directed by Maestro Carpenter in South Pasadena. I am glad at least this part of LA is great about preservation. I wil conclude my horror location quest in the area with the Hedge. But this is your Halloween location trilogy guide!