Gamble House

The basics

Sumptuous woodwork (including delicately hand-carved floral-form friezes), leaded art-glass windows and fixtures, hand-glazed tilework, and furniture custom-designed to fit each room make the Gamble House look and feel like an enormous work of art. Guided tours are the only way to see the home's interior; docents provide engaging 1-hour introductions, while more in-depth tours last 2–3 hours and are often led by craftspeople who have made meticulous renovations within the house.

Things to know before you go

• The Gamble House is a must-see for anyone with an interest in architecture and creative design.

• Advance reservations are required for in-depth tours, and recommended for 1-hour tours.

• A gift shop, bookstore, and restrooms are available on-site.

• Guests are asked to wear broad-heeled shoes or flats; booties are provided for those with improper footwear.

• There is limited first-floor access with the use of a manual-only wheelchair stair-lift device.

• Flash photography, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are not permitted.

How to get there

The Gamble House is in Pasadena at 4 Westmoreland Place, a short, private street that parallels the 300 N. block of Orange Grove between Walnut and Rosemont.The Gold Line Metro Rail runs from Union Station in downtown Los Angeles to Memorial Park station, 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) from the site. The Metro bus #267 picks up at Memorial Park and stops near the Gamble House at Rosemont and Orange Grove. Free parking is available on Westmoreland Place, though there are only 20 spots in front of the Gamble House.

When to get there

The Gamble House is open for tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Sundays. Tours can be booked through the attraction's website.

Iconic landmark

In the 1960s, the craftsman-style home was almost sold to a couple who wanted to lighten up the interior by painting everything white. Instead, it was purchased by the City of Pasadena and designated a National Historic Landmark. The University of Southern California currently operates the home, preserved as a tourist attraction and architectural teaching tool.