Pasadena Public Art - Best Murals to Visit in Pasadena
Pasadena, California is home to a vibrant art scene, with public art playing a prominent role in the city's cultural identity. From large-scale murals to sculptures and installations, Pasadena has no shortage of stunning public art pieces to explore. If you're interested in checking out some of the city's best modern murals, here are a few spots you won't want to miss. Since all artwork is subjective to the viewer, this is a matter of opinion. Most of these murals are bright and colorful and meant for interactive photo ops.
“PASADENA SUNSET SYMPHONY”
Bubble Puff & Tea - 1543 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106
This is the ideal postcard perfect photo op that’s located right across the street from Pasadena City College on the route of the Rose Parade (and historic Route 66.) The mural titled “Pasadena Sunset Symphony” is part of a nationwide project called the Greetings Tour. The artist is local to the Pasadena area which makes this piece special. “This Art Deco inspired mural features the majestic glow of Pasadena City Hall against the San Gabriel mountains during sunset. The juxtaposition of vibrant oranges pays homage to the city's heritage and carries a dual meaning of good fortune in Chinese culture. The artwork captures the essence of a tranquil evening, where architectural beauty harmonizes with the lively rhythms of culture and life.”
Pasadena / Altadena Vintage Luggage Decals
Highlight Coffee - 2071 Lincoln Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103
This mural by local artist Victor Ving of Greetings Tour is located at the Highlight Coffee Pasadena location. It can be found at 2071 Lincoln Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103. The artwork is based off vintage luggage decals that travelers used to collect in the mid-century. The mural is part of a nationwide project with a goal to encourage tourism and support local small businesses. Since the coffee shop is on the border of Altadena, it only made sense to do a tribute to both Pasadena and Altadena. There’s even a little bear on the Altadena one!
“PASSAGE THROUGH PASADENA”
WOHL Property Group - 2828 E Foothill Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91107
Pasadena’s largest public art mural (at the time of this post) “Passage Through Pasadena” is located at 2830 E. Foothill Blvd. The impressive mural spans 86’ ft wide by up to 18’ ft. tall and literally cannot be missed as you drive by. The owners wanted to use their canvas to tell the story of the greater community instead of an advertisement or signage for their business. This is a timeless solution and I know that the neighborhood will be thankful for many years to come.
PASADENA TOWERS
Parking Garage - 55 S Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101
The Playhouse District is home to several stunning murals, including a tribute to all things Pasadena over at Pasadena Towers. This mural is located at the building’s parking garage entrance on Lake Avenue and Colorado Blvd. You can find it at 55 S Lake Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101. The artist that designed this mural is Victor Ving (a local muralist) with the help of several other local artists & sign painters.
The Ice House Pasadena
Another notable mural in the Playhouse District can be found at The Ice House Pasadena Comedy Club. This may be one of those cliche Angel Wing murals except it’s done in humor! This venue was completely renovated with a new owner in 2023 and given a full face lift that included several murals on the interior and exterior. The Playhouse District is full of public art in Pasadena, with several murals adorning the sides of buildings in the area.
Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor to Pasadena, exploring the city's public art scene is a must. There are countless murals to discover and appreciate throughout the city. So grab a friend or family member, put on your walking shoes, and set out to discover the best murals in Pasadena!