Ever walked past Castle Green and wondered what’s inside? Here’s your chance to find out—and learn the story behind one of Pasadena’s most iconic buildings.
Castle Green Pasadena history and tours go far beyond the walls of this architectural gem. With its domes, wrought-iron balconies, and Moorish arches, Castle Green is more than just a photo-worthy landmark—it’s a piece of living history. Built in 1898, the building was once part of a luxury hotel that drew wealthy winter travelers to Southern California. Today, it still captures the imagination with every ornate tile and carved stair railing.
The History of Castle Green
Rising above Old Pasadena with its iconic domes, wrought-iron balconies, and Moorish-inspired arches, Castle Green isn’t just a beautiful building—it’s a rare, living time capsule from the turn of the 20th century. Its distinctive architecture and storied past have made it one of Pasadena’s most recognizable landmarks, drawing photographers, historians, filmmakers, and curious passersby alike.
Set in the middle of modern-day Pasadena, Castle Green is a reminder of the city’s early days as a luxury winter getaway. Back in the late 1800s, Pasadena was booming, and this building captured that energy with every stained glass window, tiled hallway, and carved staircase. More than 125 years later, it still gives you a glimpse of what life was like during Southern California’s golden resort era.
Born from a Boom: The Hotel Green Legacy
Castle Green began as the Central Annex to the legendary Hotel Green, a luxury resort built by Colonel George Gill Green in 1888. Colonel Green, a Civil War veteran and patent medicine tycoon, wanted to create a winter retreat for wealthy East Coasters looking for California sunshine.
In response to the area’s booming popularity, he commissioned renowned architect Frederick Roehrig to design a second, more extravagant wing. Completed in 1898, the Castle Green annex featured cutting-edge amenities for the time—electric lights, steam heat, an elevator, and lavish architectural details.
The new annex was connected to the original hotel by a bridge over Raymond Avenue, and quickly became a crown jewel of Pasadena’s resort scene.
From Hotel to Historic Landmark
As the golden age of luxury resorts faded, Castle Green transitioned into private apartments in 1924. Since then, it has housed generations of artists, writers, and local legends—earning it a reputation as one of the most unique residences in Southern California.
Castle Green narrowly avoided demolition in the 1970s thanks to community advocacy. In 1993, the Friends of Castle Green formed to preserve and restore the building to the standards of the Secretary of the Interior for historic preservation. Their efforts continue today.
A Look Inside Castle Green
Castle Green opens its doors just twice a year—once in summer and again during the holidays—for a rare look inside this one-of-a-kind building. The tours are organized by the Friends of Castle Green, a nonprofit founded in 1993 to support historic restoration and share the building’s cultural significance with the community. Their mission is to preserve Castle Green to the standards set by the Secretary of the Interior for Historic Preservation—and to let the public experience its magic firsthand.
During the Summer Open House, guests can explore beautifully restored spaces like:
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The Moorish and Turkish Rooms, rich with detail and vibrant design
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The Palm Court, once a gathering place for music and conversation
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The Grand Salon, where elegant dances and socials were held
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The Lobby and Grand Staircase, a striking architectural centerpiece
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The Bridge, fully restored inside and out
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Several private apartments, opened exclusively for the tour
You’ll also find a pop-up museum featuring rare archival materials—like casting molds of the building’s grotesques and decorative plasterwork used in its restoration. Throughout the day, historians and volunteers share insights into the Castle’s colorful past, while guests relax with lemonade on the veranda and enjoy live music on the lawn.
See It for Yourself
Whether you’re a local history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just curious about that mysterious castle-like building in Old Pasadena, the 2025 Castle Green Summer Tour is not to be missed. With its mix of historic charm, exclusive access, and community spirit, it’s a Pasadena experience you’ll talk about long after the lemonade runs out.
Castle Green isn’t just open for tours—it’s also available year-round as a stunning venue for weddings, private events, photo shoots, and film productions. Its unique architecture and timeless interiors have made it a favorite location for everything from magazine spreads to major motion pictures.
Tickets for the Summer Tour go on sale in late April at castlegreen.com—mark your calendar and don’t miss your chance to step inside.
