Bites and Sights: Exploring the museums of Pasadena

If you’re ever looking to find a little culture in Pasadena, you won’t have to look far. Pasadena is brimming with so many great museums that both adults and children can enjoy. And on these hot summer days, I can’t think of anything better to do than spend the day in a cool air-conditioned museum. Here are some of the best museums that Pasadena has to offer:

Norton Simon Museum: This museum houses a large collection of works from South Asian sculptures to works by some of Europe’s greatest artists. They also exhibit films, dance performances and modern and contemporary art. You can spend the day perusing some of Degas most beautiful paintings and then step out into the garden where you can enjoy a refreshment while observing the intricate sculptures that surround the beautifully serene pond.

Pasadena Museum of California Art: Dedicated to the exhibition of California art, architecture and design, PMCA boasts a collection of modern, eclectic and graphic works that explore the cultural dynamics and influences present in California.

Pacific Asia Museum: This museum is one of only four U.S. institutions that are dedicated to the arts and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands. The Pacific Asia Museum has a collection of over 15,000 objects in exhibition, including rare pieces of art and ethnographic objects from Asia and the Pacific Islands, spanning over five thousands years.

Pasadena Museum of History: Pasadena’s rich history is preserved here where art, furniture, jewels and china from a past era are on display.

Kidspace Children’s Museum: A fun and educational activity for all kids, Kidspace Children’s Museum provides a creative environment that inspires learning by allowing your child to explore the arts and sciences through self-directed and interactive play.

Garinee Soudjian is a writer, blogger who is passionate about food and community. She can be reached at garinee@gmail.com.