Pasadena

[jpa66]

To all you Californians...

I'm traveling to Pasadena in mid March with my wife to visit my sis and brother-in-law. I was wondering if there was anything in the nearby area that is worth shooting? We're going to be there four nights, and plan on going to see the ocean, and probably hiking somewhere. The last time I was in LA years ago, I hated it -but I'm an East-coast kind of guy ( even though I now live in Chicago ). So I'm hoping that it will be better this time, and that some of you all will have some cool suggestions that may ( or may not ) be off the beaten path.

Thanks,
Jan

 

[kxl]

Most definitely. Google "historic Pasadena alleyways" for some interesting venues in Old Pasadena. Your sis/bro-in-law should be familiar with these alleys. Flickr has some sample images as does my website (go to the Pasadena Photowalk gallery). Of course, downtown LA, and especially Chinatown, always has some good photo ops.

 

[divewizard]

Very near Pasadena
The Hunting Library and Botanical Gardens

One of the most unique places in LA
The La Brea Tar Pits

Downtown has some great photo ops
Union Station
Olvera Street (historic LA)

At the very top of Lake Ave. is a trail that goes up the (Echo) mountain. You get a panoramic view of LA and near the top is the remains of the Echo Mountain Resort and railway. It is about a 2-3 hour hike to the top and about 1 hour back down. It is in my opinion one of the best hikes for a view in LA and 10 minutes from Pasadena.

On the trail

The remains of Echo Mountain House

 

[filmtwit]

Take a tour of the Gamble House:
The Gamble House in Pasadena, California, is an outstanding example of American Arts and Crafts style architecture. The house and furnishings were designed by Charles and Henry Greene in 1908 for David and Mary Gamble of the Procter and Gamble Company. The house, a National Historic Landmark, is owned by the City of Pasadena and operated by the University of Southern California and is open for public tours.

http://www.gamblehouse.org/

 

[jpa66]

Great suggestions, guys! All of the places look very interesting. My sister and brother-in-law have only been living out west for a short time, and don't know the area very well, so your ideas are extremely helpful.

 

[chris91387]

griffith park observatory at sunset. beautiful view of the city. can get crowded so go a bit early and be prepared to hike a little bit from where you will no doubt be parking your car.

getty museum is another great place.

santa monica pier, venice and downtown are fun for street shooting.

desconso gardens is just a few minutes outside of pasadena.

 

[chris91387]

forgot to include a few pictures. i took these the other day at griffith park.