Postcard, view of east Colorado Street, Pasadena, 1900s (Photo – PMH Collection)
Pasadena Walking Tours presents a new walking tour in celebration of the Route 66 centennial in June 2026.
By Katlyn Ong
In November 1926, Route 66 was established as part of the U.S. numbered highways system, connecting cities like Pasadena to far flung locations across the country. Running from Chicago to Los Angeles (and eventually Santa Monica), the “Mother Road” became a favorite route for road trippers as the automobile gained traction in American society. The highway soon burst into pop culture and attained legendary status, featured in books, movies, and music over the course of the 20th century.
On this tour, participants will walk a small section of the “Main Street of America,” along Colorado Boulevard. In addition to Route 66 lore, attendees will learn 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.
Starting Time: 5:30 pm
Starting Location: Defenders Park at the northern end of S Grand Ave.
Distance: 1.7 miles
Duration: approximately 2 hours
Ending Location: Colorado Blvd. & El Molino Ave.
To purchase tickets, click here.
Walking Tour of Route 66 & Pasadena’s Car Scene August 17, 2025 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm Starting Location Defenders Park 450 W Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91105
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