Local Landmark

The Colorado Street Bridge is one of Pasadena’s most recognizable icons and has made cameos in numerous television shows and movies, including Oscar-nominated film La La Land. But, in real life, the 110-year-old bridge almost didn’t make the cut.

Opened in 1913, the bridge was designed by Missouri-based engineering company Waddell & Harrington and was the first street-level crossing over the Arroyo Seco, linking Pasadena and Los Angeles. In 1975, the bridge was awarded status as a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, and it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981.

Due to its age, the bridge was deteriorating in the 1970s and in dire need of repair and updates. Luckily, local nonprofit Pasadena Heritage stepped in to advocate for the structure’s preservation through letter-writing campaigns, constant lobbying, and hosting a summer event—the inaugural Colorado Street Bridge Party. After many years of effort, the bridge finally underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation in 1993, including seismic upgrades and a historically accurate restoration.

Today, the bridge continues to stand strong, and the Colorado Street Bridge Party has become a much-anticipated community event. After a five-year hiatus, Pasadena Heritage threw its famous party again on Saturday, July 15, with live music, dancing, food, beverages, specialty cocktails, and children’s activities to celebrate the bridge. If you missed it, visit pasadenaheritage.org to see party pics and plan for the next Bridge Party in 2025.