Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, crafts, and self-guided tours at five unique museums along the scenic Arroyo Seco
On May 5, 2024, Museums of the Arroyo Day invites visitors to explore Pasadena’s vibrant history and culture through free admission and engaging activities at five unique museums along the scenic Arroyo Seco. The annual event, which runs from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., provides an opportunity for the community to discover the rich heritage of the area and participate in various educational and entertaining programs.
The participating museums include the Pasadena Museum of History, the Gamble House, Heritage Square Museum, Los Angeles Police Museum, and Lummis Home & Garden. Each venue offers a distinct perspective on the region’s past and present, showcasing art, architecture, and cultural artifacts.
At the Pasadena Museum of History, visitors can view two special exhibitions: “Celebrate! Quilts on the Wall” and “Cabinet of Curiosities: 100 Years of Collecting Pasadena History.” The exhibits showcase the museum’s extensive collection and highlight the city’s artistic and historical legacy. Guests are also welcomed inside the Fényes Mansion and Finnish Folk Art Museum for mini self-guided tours, allowing them to experience the grandeur of these historic buildings firsthand.
For families with children, the Pasadena Museum of History offers a unique craft workshop hosted by Art 2 Go. Kids of all ages can create their own personalized “Cabinet of Curiosities” using colored paper, stickers, and simple decorative designs. This hands-on activity encourages creativity while engaging young minds with the concept of preserving and displaying historical objects.
The other participating museums along the Arroyo Seco provide equally compelling experiences. The Gamble House, a masterpiece of American Arts and Crafts architecture, offers insights into the design principles and craftsmanship of the early 20th century. Heritage Square Museum features a collection of restored Victorian-era buildings, shedding light on the lives of early Southern Californians. The Los Angeles Police Museum showcases the history of law enforcement in the city, while the Lummis Home & Garden provides a glimpse into the life and work of Charles Lummis, a pioneering preservationist and advocate for the Southwest.
To facilitate easy access to all five museums, a complimentary shuttle service is available throughout the day. Visitors are encouraged to check the Museums of the Arroyo Day website for information on parking and shuttle stops, as well as a full schedule of activities and events at each location. For more information on activities at the other participating venues and directions/parking/
