Exploring Pasadena on Foot | Part 1: Route 66 & Old Pasadena's Car Scene

Join PMH Curator Julia Long for a two-part Exploring Pasadena on Foot: Route 66 Series. Learn about two sections of Route 66 in Pasadena, as well as the city's unique car culture history on these two-hour strolls through Old Pasadena and the Playhouse Village.

In November 1926, Route 66 opened as part of the U.S. numbered highways system, connecting cities like Pasadena to far flung locations across the country. The highway soon burst into pop culture and attained legendary status, featured in books, movies, and music over the course of the 20th century.

These Route 66 tours function as two parts of a larger story. Guests will learn about different neighborhoods and facets of Pasadena’s car culture on each tour. In addition to Route 66 lore, we’ll talk more broadly about car culture in Pasadena, and the dealerships, manufacturers, and service stations that helped drive a thriving city throughout the 20th century and into a new millennium.

Please Note: While attending both parts is recommended for a complete history, participants are welcome to sign up for either session individually. Participants will receive background information on each tour.

Saturday, June 6 | 10:00 to 12:00 pm

The walking tour will explore a section of Route 66 – known as the "Mother Road" and the “Main Street of America” – around present-day Old Pasadena. Learn about Old Pasadena’s Car Scene that featured one of the original "Automobile Rows," and buildings that once housed gas stations, car mechanics, and even an electric car dealership from the early 20th century.

This tour will start at 300 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91105 on the Southwest corner of W. Colorado Blvd. and S. St. John Ave. and end on Colorado & N. Arroyo Parkway.

Exploring Pasadena on Foot | Part 2: Route 66 & Car Culture in the Playhouse Village is scheduled for Saturday, July 11 at 10:00 am. Tickets are sold separately. For tickets and information, click .

Image: Jaycees heading to the Corn Fair, September 6, 1950. J. Allen Hawkins Collection, JAH5854n3

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