Pasadena Museum of History — Attraction in Pasadena

This was simply the worst 'museum' experience of my entire life. I thought I was at the wrong place, but after triple-checking I indeed was in a place called 'Pasadena museum of history' and furthermore, people here seem to be reviewing the same place and giving it 5 stars? Stranger things have happened I guess... OK, but to the point: After paying 6 dollars for a student entrance fee (wow, what a discount from the regular fee which is 7 dollars), I was genuinely excited to learn about Pasadena history and ready to explore the exhibit. The 'exhibit' turns out to be two small rooms with some dresses (!) that took us about a minute and half to explore. Apparently the dresses is the current exhibit, which I should have checked online, but I don't think I can be blamed for expecting a real museum from a place called 'Pasadena museum of history' without having to look up that it's worthless. I was going to demand my money back, but my friend convinced me not to. We browsed the gift shop, which entertained us for about 3 minutes, because it is not interesting at all. Please don't come here!!!! Instead, go to an actual museum like for example the Norton Simon museum, which...

This review might be a bit "harsh" and not fully informed, but I'll share my experience. At the time of visiting, granted, the museum was "between exhibitions," but even if there was an exhibition, you had to pay an extra $17 for a tour of the Hayes mansion? Seems pretty steep to pay an additional fee for something that is a part of the facility. Needless to say, we didn't see paying upwards of $35 for 2 people to take the tour as being worthwhile. We did walk around the grounds for 10 - 15 minutes to get a feel for the space, but a lot of the gardens seemed run-down and not very well kept. Additionally, there is a "Finnish" folk house which is closed. Overall, it seems like with a little TLC and some effort and a reasonable price, say $10 - $15 for everything included and some enthusiastic docents or volunteers on hand it would have a lot of potential. Otherwise, if you're in the area, especially for only a short period of time, your time is much better spent at the Gamble House or Norton...

After driving over an hour to get here, I was extremely disappointed! First off the website makes it seem like there is more to this museum than there really is. We went to see the advertised history of the Pasadena area and a special exhibit as advertised. The website also tells us that if we arrive by 12:15 there is a tour of the historic home next door. All this for only $9 per person. Upon entering to pay the admission, the clerk tells us that the fee is $17 per person!? The home tour costs extra though it is not stated as such on the web. Also the only thing to view in the museum is the "special exhibit". When I expressed my confusion, the clerk became condescending and rude. I will never step foot in here again, and recommend you do the same. There are plenty of historical places and museums in the area that you will not be disappointed by....avoid the Pasadena Museum of History- it is not...