There are bits and pieces of preserved history throughout Southern California. We have Old Town districts, historic buildings, museums, etc. in many towns and cities up and down the state. There are, of course, some cities with a concentrated number of landmarks and historic places. For example, there are over 100 historic properties in Pasadena that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Pasadena, is a charming city that feels like a small town. Founded in 1874, it is a world of its own where old meets new, where shiny new structures rise alongside century-old buildings.
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The area of Old Town Pasadena, also referred to as Old Pasadena or simply Old Town, was the original commercial center of the city, a hub of research and art, and is the most concentrated area of historic buildings.
Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Ornate architecture, small brick buildings, and tiny alleys characterize the area that is now full of lively businesses, including boutique shops, coffee houses, restaurants, and more.
Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Bungalow Heaven was the first area of the city to be named a Historic Landmark District in 1989, and historic tours of the area are conducted annually. This Pasadena neighborhood is made up of 16 blocks filled with over 1,000 craftsman-style homes, most of which were built in the 1900s. Driving through the tree-lined streets of Bungalow Heaven is a journey through a simpler time.
Bungalow Heaven, Pasadena, CA 91104, USA
Google Maps Image capture: Jul 2022. ©2023 Google
The Gamble House is described as “Architecture as a fine art.” The architectural firm of Greene and Greene designed this iconic Craftsman home and construction was completed in 1909.
4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA
Tom Stohlman/Flickr
The house was designed to be expressly different from others in the neighborhood, with an emphasis on nature, and has been remarkably well-maintained inside and out. The Gamble House became known worldwide when it was featured in the film "Back to the Future" as Doc Brown’s home.

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The Colorado Street Bridge is a stunning feat of engineering spanning 1,458 feet and reaching a maximum of 150 feet from the ground.
504 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105, USA
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The bridge, known for its gorgeous arches, light fixtures, and railings, it cost $191,000, equivalent to over $5 million today. It was built in 1912, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and was designated by the American Society of Civil Engineers as a California Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
The first library in the city was constructed in 1890 in Library Park. The stunning structure was damaged by a 1933 earthquake and dismantled in 1954, but the entrance arch still stands. The park is now called Memorial Park, includes a 1930 Art Deco band shell, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Night view of the beautiful facade of the historical City Hall building of Pasadena, Los Angeles county, California; the building was completed in 1927;
100 Garfield Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
Sundry Photography/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Construction of the historic Pasadena City Hall was completed in 1927 as part of the 1920s "City Beautiful" movement. It’s intricate architectural elements reflect Spanish Colonial and Mediterranean Revival styles. It is one of the most striking structures in the city.
Built in 1898, Castle Green is an extraordinary structure. Pasadena’s most unique building was originally constructed as an extension of the famous Hotel Green which was later torn down.
Castle Green
Castle Green served as an extravagant retreat for travelers escaping cold winters back east. In 1926, the Castle was converted into 50 individually-owned units.
In addition to being a condominium complex, Castle Green now serves as a special event venue, hosting many gorgeous weddings. Stepping inside this imposing building is like entering a time warp. Great effort has been put into meticulous maintenance and restoration so that the luxurious interior looks nearly as identical as it did in the early 1900s.
99 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105, USA
Castle Green

There is no way to show all of Pasadena’s beautiful historic properties and districts in one article. Why not head to the city and explore them for yourself? Did you know there were so many historic places in Pasadena? Have you ever spent time in this city? We would love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments. Can’t get enough of SoCal’s history? Check out this small town with three must-see historic landmarks.

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