The Norton Simon Museum grew out of the Pasadena Art Institute (later Pasadena Art Museum), which built a new home in 1969; industrialist Norton Simon took financial control in 1973-74 and renovated and renamed it. Its roughly 12,000-object collection spans European masterworks from the Renaissance through the 20th century (Old Masters, Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, and a deep Degas holding), South and Southeast Asian sculpture and painting, and an outdoor sculpture garden anchored by works of Rodin. The building's brown-tiled, irregular H-shaped exterior, designed by Ladd & Kelsey with tiles by Edith Heath, is a Pasadena landmark visible along the Rose Parade route.
Visitor Information
- How much does Norton Simon Museum cost?
- Standard adult admission to Norton Simon Museum is $20. Prices for special exhibitions and timed-entry slots may differ.
- What are the opening hours of Norton Simon Museum?
- Norton Simon Museum is open Thu-Mon 12-5pm (Fri-Sat to 7pm), closed Tue-Wed. Free admission first Friday of the month, 4-7pm.. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.
- Where is Norton Simon Museum?
- Norton Simon Museum is located at 411 W. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105, in the Pasadena area of Los Angeles. The nearest stations are Memorial Park Station (A Line) — about a 10-15 min walk, Del Mar Station (A Line) — alternative walk/bus, Metro Local Line 180 / Pasadena Transit 10 & 33 stop out front.
- What can I see at Norton Simon Museum?
- World-class private art collection — Rembrandt to Picasso to Rodin — behind a tiled, undulating facade in Pasadena. Current highlights include The Art of Kandy: Sri Lanka's Last Kingdom, Takers | Makers: Photographic Practice in California, 1945-1980, European Painting and Sculpture.
- Do I need to book Norton Simon Museum in advance?
- Booking ahead is recommended, especially for weekends, school holidays, and special exhibitions. Tickets are normally on the museum's website, and a pre-booked timed slot helps you avoid queues at the entrance.
- When is the best time to visit Norton Simon Museum?
- Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.