The Norton Simon isn't the largest museum I've ever visited, but it does house some of my favorite pieces -- from the the ballet dancers of Degas to the Renaissance views of Venice's Piazza San Marco by Canaletto. There's always an interesting ""visiting"" show to view. I recommend visiting the museum early on the weekend...afternoons get rather busy. During the week it's packed with school children. If you're a museum ""stroller"" like me, you might not appreciate their ""enthusiasm"". You can usually get through the entire museum in a couple of hours (again...if you're a ""stroller"") and then have a late lunch/early dinner in Old Town Pasadena. If you're a Westsider...make a day of it and drive out to the Pasadena for some culture with shopping and dining just steps away. You won't regret it.
Pros: Close to Old Town Pasadena
Cons: Parking can be crowded on a busy day.
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