South Pasadena

South Pasadena is, like many cities in the Southern California area, a melting pot. People of all cultures and ages inhabit the area, but the one thing they all have in common is: STYLE. There is a common thread that seems to run through everyone that walks in Pasadena, whether it be getting together for that casual lunch/business meeting or just to shop, while parking is still available. Everyone is dressed in style, and so should you, if you want to tap into the vibe of the town. Be prepared to spend money and look the part while in South Pasadena. This is not a low-income area, but the patrons are not what you would consider snobby. In fact, many of the shop owners and even the people you pass are quite friendly. But South Pasadena is a place for those who like to live in style, but have chosen not to make Beverly Hills or Hollywood their home. The people who call South Pasadena home like to shop, they like to eat dinner in restaurants, and they like to keep their city clean. It is one of the cleanest cities with lots to offer someone looking to have a fun, but sophisticated night on the town.  

South Pasadena's main street, Colorado Blvd, has much to offer its residents. Restaurants and shopping take a bit more precedence over clubs, however, if dancing is what you plan on doing at night. South Pasadena is more of the place you would want to have a big "get-together" dinner as opposed to hitting the clubs. From Bucca de Beppos to Barney's Beanery to Johnny Rockets, the option for what to eat are almost limitless. Or, for something a bit more upscale, you can always check out the Twin Palms, owned by actor Kevin Costner.

Everything in South Pasadena is within walking distance of each other, as long as staying on Colorado Blvd. is what you have planned. And that is always a good thing when it comes to finding a bar to hang out at, which Pasadena has plenty of. If you're thinking dive bars, you might be outta luck (Freddy's 35er if you really want one). E's Martini Lounge on Fair Oaks and Colorado is a great spot to hang out or RedWhite bluezz Wine Bar is also fun on Thursdays if you like your liquor served with a hint of jazz.

If you plan on living in Pasadena, you had better been saving your pennies for quite some time. The surrounding areas, particularly farther east in Pasadena and south of Colorado Blvd, offer better options for housing as far as cost is concerned. If a condo or townhouse is what you are looking for, be ready to spend anywhere from $365,000 to $479,000 on a 1 or 2 bedroom place. It all depends on how close you get to Colorado Blvd. The closer, the more expensive. Apartments are relatively abundant, and these can range anywhere from $1000 on up, again, depending on where they are at. Understand, though, that you won't be disappointed in what you get. Most of the places to rent that I've seen in South Pasadena have all looked great. Modernism is a big trend in interior designs and fireplaces are very possible in some units. Almost guaranteed a balcony, since not having a view of the San Gabriel Mountains would be a crime. You will love the housing and the location is great. Just make sure you can afford it.

If renting from a house is what you're after, this might be a bit trickier. It is often difficult to secure rental housing in South Pasadena since many of the people that live there are families that are in full use of their homes. The closest thing to living in an actual house in South Pasadena would be to get a bunch of friends together and buy a home or rent one, if you can find it. But be ready to pay a monthly rent of over $1800 to $2700 a month. The house might not even be that big. It's all about location, location, location. That is what you pay for. This doesn't mean that the homes aren't nice. South Pasadena is known for having some of the most beautiful homes in Los Angeles. It's why movies like The Father of the Bride were made there. Just be ready to pay. Can't stress that enough.

Parking in South Pasadena is a difficult task. Kinda similar to New York City, but without the crazy cab drivers. On that same note, the idea of walking has also been adopted in South Pas. There are certain times of the day, mainly in the evening when driving can be bit of a gridlock. We're talking Friday night, 7pm kinda hours. Almost anywhere at that time is gonna be impacted. You will get where you need to, just add 10 minutes to your arrival time. Rest of the day, not so bad. Lunch hour can be a bit much, since everyone else wants to eat at the same place you do and most of the parking lots servicing restaurants in South Pas. are small or narrow. Valet is an option for some places, and parking structures are located around the area, if you are willing to sacrifice convenience and a short walk. But driving is very possible. It's just the parking part.

South Pasadena has it's own bus lines that make frequent stops within the city and will connect you to the rest of Los Angeles, if need be. There is also the Gold Line, which is a sub track that connects to the main lines for the Metrolink trains in Los Angeles. The Gold line runs along the length of the 210 fwy. which is great for getting to Pasadena from another city, but not for getting along in Pasadena. If getting from one place to another is the goal, you're best bets are car, bus, or on foot.   

If money is not an issue, then go for the gold and move in right on Colorado Blvd. There are some single room condos overlooking the main street that are absolutely spectacular. If making rent is a factor, then consider moving closer to the east side of South Pas. and south of Colorado Blvd, if possible. Don't expect to be able to reduce price for the place you're renting. Places for rent in South Pas. go fast and landlords are likely to pass you up for someone else that is ready to sign the papers. That being said, if you do decide to move here, it will not be a regrettable decision. You'll get your moneys worth from the surrounding area and atmosphere.

South Pasadena is like any other major city. Pets are allowed, as long as they are on a leash if outside the backyard. Cats, rats, and birds are all good. Homes are quite common in the area, so there are lots of pets in backyards. Might be a bit harder to find a place for pets in apartment or condos. Most apartments are cool with any pet under 5lbs. There are some townhouses that come with patios though, so having a place for the dogs might work there.

There is only one dog parks in South Pas. where you can let the Little Guy run off-leash for awhile. Check out Eaton Wash Park off Orange Grove Blvd. for some doggie fun. Otherwise, the general rule for the entire city is all dogs on a 6ft leash or shorter when walking your dog around town.

First and foremost, South Pasadena is home to one of the biggest entertainment events in the world: The Tournament of Roses Parade. The parade follows down most of Colorado Blvd and, for anyone living in the town, you have a leg-up on good seats since you already live in the town. If you happened to rent property on Colorado Blvd, you have a perfect view of the whole parade. Sadly, it's only once a year, but it's a big source of entertainment for the town.

Colorado Blvd. is the main hub of attraction for South Pasadena. You can pick your choice of restaurant; everything from Italian to Japanese is all at your fingertips. But why stop at eating? You can shop the very large and helpful Apple store, hit the Gap or PacSun for some quick fashion improvements, and catch a movie at one of 2 AMC Theaters. Word to the wise: Check out the Old AMC 8 Theater next to the Gap for a really interesting time. It's an old movie theater that was built under the streets that was later purchased by AMC. It's a trip to realize your watching a movie beneath the city of South Pasadena. It's also hidden from the street view, which is fun. Tucked in between a bunch of high-rise buildings, you'll find a great patio restaurant and also a Johnny Rockets next to the theater. If indie films are more your thing, head farther down Colorado Blvd. to Laemmle's Playhouse 7 for the best in independent films.

Or maybe relaxing is your idea of an exciting day. A trip to Burke Williams day spa will have you feeling like a new person in no time.South Pasadena also also houses the Norton Simon Museum as well as The Museum of Pasadena Art, Pasadena Museum of History, and 7 other museums. Pasadena also has it's own Botanical Gardens that are great for spending a day in nature.

Lucky for most, South Pasadena really doesn't have any areas that wouldn't be a nice place to call home. As mentioned before, the farther you get from Colorado Blvd, the lower the rent. Places along Oak Knoll Ave. and El Molino Ave. are really nice. It's close enough to the main shopping areas in South Pas. but also far enough that the rent won't bankrupt you. And it still won't sacrifice the quality of your neighborhood! But really, almost anywhere you pick in South Pas. is gonna be a good move. Del Mar Blvd tends to be busy at times and sometimes requires crossing heavy traffic unprotected so, if living on a busy street and making bold driving moves is not something you like, don't live on Del Mar.

South Pas. has the options of your traditional markets such as Ralphs, Vons, and Safeway but also the more upscale food shopping like Hastings and Wholefoods. Best part: they're all close and easy to get to. Lots of banks and there are even ATM machines you can get to while walking on Colorado Blvd, so running out of cash is not a problem. Gyms are plentiful as well. If you happened to be the type that wants to see some celebrities struggling with weights just like you, join the LA Fitness on Lake Blvd. You won't be disappointed.  

A great place to raise a family. Very safe with low crime levels. Safe enough to walk around at night. You have a few options for public schools, depending on which part of South Pasadena you move into. More than likely, Blair High School or South Pasadena Elementary School. You might still want to pick up the kids from school if a bus is not offered since there are many busy streets in Pasadena. Plenty of small parks in the area that make family outings an easy plan.