Learn about America's first Ostrich Farm at Pasadena Historical Museum.
The South Pasadena Historical Museum was opened in 1987 in the Meridian Iron Works building, which the City of Pasadena bought and restored in the 1980s. Operated by the South Pasadena Preservation Foundation, restoration work is now being undertaken. Exhibits on the Raymond Hotel and Edwin Cawston's Ostrich Farm are visitor favorites. Entry to the museum is free, and tours can be arranged for schools. Hotels close to the museum vary from converted mansions to modern chains.
Arroyo Vista Inn
The Arroyo Vista Inn bed and breakfast, a mile from the historical museum, was originally a 1910 Craftsman-style house designed by Lester Moore. As well as breakfast, guests can enjoy wine and cheese served in the afternoon. A choice of 10 unique rooms can give you a balcony, air spa tub, extensive views and modern touches like wireless Internet and an iPod hookup. South Pasadena's Mission District is half a mile away; here you can find a wealth of independent restaurants, offering a variety of foods.
Hilton Pasadena
Less than three miles north of the museum, the Hilton is also close to E. Colorado Blvd. and Pasadena Old Town. Your choice of room or suite provides either a view of the San Gabriel Mountains or the city. Rooms have a work desk; Internet access is fee-based. The hotel restaurant serves California-style entrees, with emphasis on fresh seafood, and has an extensive wine list. Children have their own menu, and meals can also be ordered from room service. Pets are welcome.
The Bissell House Bed & Breakfast
Located on Orange Grove Avenue, this Victorian house was the residence of Anna Bissell McCay, whose father invented the carpet sweeper. Period furniture complements the architecture, and each guest room has an individual style and color scheme. Victoria's Room, for example, overlooks the pool from a private solarium. Wireless Internet is available in guest and common rooms. Your gourmet breakfast is vegetarian, and afternoon tea with dessert is complimentary. Pasadena Old Town, just a walk away, has gourmet restaurants, coffee shops, bars and shopping. The Bissell House is less than a mile from the museum.
Sheraton Pasadena Hotel
The Sheraton Pasadena is within walking distance to Pasadena Old Town and has a complimentary shuttle service within a three-mile radius; the historical museum is less than three miles away. Rooms with a balcony are available on request. Internet access is free in the business center, but fee-based in guest rooms. The hotel provides a babysitting service for your children, and even a bed for your dog. There are two restaurants in the Sheraton, providing a choice of Mediterranean or American cuisine.
Tags: Pasadena Historical, Pasadena Historical Museum, Pasadena Town, South Pasadena, Arroyo Vista, Bissell House