HISTORIC SITES FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

Los Angeles County A-H
Los Angeles County I-R (below)
Los Angeles County S-Z
Orange County
Riverside & San Bernardino Counties
Ventura County

Los Angeles County I-R
Revised July 2008

INN OF THE SEVENTH RAY
128 Old Topanga Road, Topanga Canyon 90290,
(310) 455-1311
This landmark restaurant, nestled in the mountains of historic Topanga, offers a romantic country setting with thousands of twinkle lights in ancient oak trees. Wedding ceremonies are held in the Gazebo and on various patios with waterfalls or the creek as a back ground. Three outdoor reception areas accommodate 50, 80, or up to 220 guests. The Garden room and Church room offer inside seating for up to 50 guests and are often used for bar/lounge purposes or dancing.

INN ON MOUNT ADA
398 Wrigley Terrace Road, P.O. Box 2560, Avalon 90704, (310) 510-2030, Contact: Jan Donohoe
Built in 1921, the Inn on Mt. Ada is a Georgian Colonial six-bedroom and bath furnished with period antiques, and it overlooks Avalon Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The main floor of the house has a den with a fireplace and French doors that lead to a light airy sun porch commanding a full view of the harbor. A large, warm, living room with antique furniture; baby grand piano, a fireplace and French doors opens to a terrace surrounding the front of the house overlooking Avalon Bay, and the ocean toward the mainland; and the formal dining room with beautiful crystal chandeliers also offers a spectacular ocean-mainland view. It is required that all six guest rooms, which can accommodate 12-16 people, be booked for any special group event desiring to have exclusive use of the mansion. Maximum amount of guests that can be accommodated for receptions is 80.

ITALIAN VILLA
336 Sturtevant Drive, Sierra Madre 91024, (213) 629-9222, Contact: Krishna Malhotra
Built in 1925 by renowned architects Marston, Van Pelt, and Mayberry, the home features impressive architectural details, such as stained glass windows, Gothic-arched hallway, Moroccan ceilings, palladian windows, massive fireplace, soaring ceilings, and sweeping views. Its multi-faceted features make this a uniquely versatile location for filming. The three-plus acres of grounds are covered by a myriad of mature trees which include groves of camellias and live oaks, bauhinias, ginkgos, silk floss, eucalyptus, and numerous fruit trees. The vegetation adorn the grounds conjuring a variety of ambiences: from an idyllic forest to a jungle; from park-like spaces to wild rugged cactus landscapes. Available for film and commercial shoots. Renter to obtain necessary city permits.

IVY SUBSTATION-MEDIA PARK
9070 Venice Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232, (310) 253-6640
Built in 1907 by the Los Angeles Pacific Railway Co., the Mission-style substation is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument. It is located close to Culver City. It is suggested that weddings take place in adjoining Media Park which features formal walkways and an outdoor gazebo, and that receptions be held at the substation. The main room of the station can hold up to 200 people for a sit-down meal. There is a large food assembly area for your caterer. There is also a recessed projection area. Alcoholic beverages are allowed and space for dancing is limited.

JAPANESE GARDENS
6100 Woodley Avenue, Van Nuys 91406, (818) 756-8166
The Japanese Gardens include a meditation garden which contains a tortoise island, a three Buddha arrangement of rocks and a wisteria arbor. There is an expansive "wet-strolling" garden with waterfalls, lakes and streams, abundant greenery and stone lanterns which were hand-carved by artisans in Japan. Adjoining the Shoin building is an authentic 4-1/2 tatami teahouse with adjacent tea garden. Weddings may take place in the authentic tea room open on three sides, or in the 6-1/2 acre Japanese Gardens. Please see the website for details. No children under eight years of age are allowed, with the exception of one flower girl and one ring bearer. All events must conclude by dusk. The maximum number of people per garden event is limited to 75 persons. Beer, wine, and champagne are allowed.

KIM SING THEATRE
718 North Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, (310) 800-3999, Contact: Willard Ford
Located on the outskirts of Chinatown, the 1926 Kim Sing Theatre served as a vaudeville stage, movie theatre, and community gathering place. Today it is home to FORDBRADY and 722 FIGUEROA, two showrooms that offer the converted space for special events, including birthdays, weddings, screenings, and other community events. The screen is no longer in service, but an outdoor patio and indoor floor plan provide ample space for groups as large as 300 plus. The neon theatre sign still reigns over a thoroughly modern interior with a three-level, multi-use space including a large kitchen and serving station and an AV room. The outside is similarly tiered and features space suitable for a full bar and musical entertainment. Renter to obtain necessary city permits.

LA CASITA DEL ARROYO
177 South Arroyo Boulevard, Pasadena 91105-1075, (626) 794-0581, Contact: Mary Harley
La Casita was built in 1933 as a project to provide jobs for the City's unemployed. Designed by Myron Hunt, the lumber came from old bicycle tracks built at the Rose Bowl for the 1932 Olympic Games, and the stones came from the Arroyo. It was declared a Pasadena Cultural Heritage Landmark in 1976. Recently a garden was planted specializing in water conserving landscape. The Casita consists of one large main room, kitchen, fireplace (you provide your own wood), tables, and chairs. You provide your own caterer, music is allowed, and a special permit for serving alcohol is needed. Eighty is the maximum number of people allowed.

LA VENTA INN
796 Via del Monte, Palos Verdes Estates 90274, (310) 643-6151
Nationally recognized historical landmark as the Peninsula's oldest building (1924), this Mediterranean-style villa can accommodate up to 250 guests both inside and outside on the three-acre estate, with highlights such as a bubbling fountain, carved stone fireplace, and original wood ceiling. Since 1922, La Venta Inn has been managed by The New York Food Company and has been restored some of the historic details that have eroded away since the 1920’s. Wedding ceremonies may be held on a covered terrace overlooking the ocean. Menu prices vary according to your selections and the type of service you choose. Please call or check their website for pricing details.

LEONIS ADOBE
23537 Calabasas Road, Calabasas, 91302, (818) 222-6511,
The Leonis Adobe Museum has been designated as "Historic Cultural Monument No. 1", by the Cultural Heritage Heritage Board of the Municipal Art Department of the City of Los Angeles. The Calabasas Creek park is a beautiful open air extension of the historical Leonis Adobe Museum. The Calabasas Creek Park offers a beautiful setting for a romantic wedding ceremony or any other special event. The enchanting rose garden can accommodate up to 250 guests. Catering done by the Sagebrush Restaurant next door. The ambiance is tranquil and lovely.

LITTLE BROWN CHURCH IN THE VALLEY
4418 Coldwater Canyon Avenue, Studio City 91604,
(818) 786-4070
This 50-year-old nondenominational church resembles an old-fashioned little wooden chapel. It has a pine interior with hand-hewn pine pews. There is a fully mirrored bridal dressing room. The church seats a maximum of 125 people, and there is no reception area. Former President and Mrs. Reagan were married here. Chapel is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for prayer.

LITTLE CHAPEL ON THE HILL, PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY
Stauffer Chapel, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu 90263 (310) 506-4264
Modern church designed by William Pereira with a massive stained glass window that faces the Pacific Ocean. The church is nondenominational and seats 180. Ceremonies are held on Saturdays and Sundays. You make your own arrangements for minister, organist, and florist. There is no facility for receptions.

LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART
2300 East Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach 90803, (562) 439-2119 x234
The Museum is housed in a 1911 landmark California bungalow. Weddings, receptions, and private parties are held in the outdoor sculpture garden which has a sweeping view of the ocean. The garden can seat up to 300 guests. You provide chairs, tables, caterers, etc.

LOS ANGELES ATHLETIC CLUB
431 West Seventh Street, Los Angeles 90014,
(213) 630-5255 ext 3377
The elaborate 1912 Beaux-Arts style club was designed by John Parkinson and Edwin Bergstrom. It has the atmosphere of an English men's club with a high ceiling and paneled walls in the main dining room, on the third floor. Wedding ceremonies may be held in the game room, dining room, lobby, or main lounge. The main dining room can accommodate between 175-300 people for a reception. Full catering services available Dinner prices start at $32. per person. Full parking facilities are available. Smaller groups can be accommodated in one of the banquet rooms on the fourth floor.

LOS ANGELES CENTER STUDIOS
1201 West 5th Street, Los Angeles 90017, (213) 534.3000
Los Angeles Center Studios is located just minutes away from the Staples Center, LA Convention Center and the new Disney Concert Hall. Our full-service studio campus offers a wide variety of event venues within a completely enclosed creative environment. Whether you choose to create an event on a sound stage or amid astonishing skyline views on our outdoor decks, you will long remember your experience at Los Angeles Center Studios. The Tower Building was erected in 1958 (the old Unocal Bldg.) and has been restored to its original state, emphasizing classic elements of Vintage Modernism including black terrazzo floors, glass and aluminum walls. The Beaudry Building, our special event facility, offers a variety of areas including 2 outdoor patios with unobstructed skyline views, a state-of-the-art 400 seat theatre, private dining area and our FLIX Cafe. We have 6 sound stages, each measuring 18,000 sq. ft. with ceiling heights ranging from 35 ft. to 43 ft.

LOS ANGELES POLICE ACADEMY
1800 North Academy Drive, Los Angeles 90012, (323) 221-5222 Ext. 227 Contact: Colleen Zirbes
Wedding ceremonies may be held in the secluded rock garden of the Police Academy in Elysian Park which was built in 1935. The gardens include four pools, several cascades, a small amphitheater for a band, and an outdoor dining area with a BBQ pit and large patio. The garden was declared a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument in 1973.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPT. of PARKS & RECREATION- THE ARBORETUM
301 North Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia 91007
Contact: Nadia Balaz (626) 821-3204 or
Veda Williams (626) 821-3211
Built in 1886 by Lucky Baldwin, the Victorian-style Queen Anne cottage (made famous on the Fantasy Island TV show) is the most popular area for weddings. The waterfall and fountain areas are also popular spots. Weddings may take place between 5 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. after the park is closed to the public. There are 5 locations available for ceremonies and receptions. There is a charge per person, and you use your own caterers.

LOS ANGELES ZOO
5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles 90027, (323) 644-6049 Contact: Kimberly Maldonado
Add a touch of wildlife to your wedding and/or reception. Four separate areas are available for parties: Adventure Island, Treetop Terrace, Zoopendous Center, and Ludden Plaza. The fee varies depending on the size of group. The fee includes security, clean-up, event support, trams into and out of the zoo, and free parking. The zoo is available after hours - 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., during which time trainers may allow animal contact. Limited areas are available during the zoo's regular hours. You provide your own caterer. There is room for dancing and liquor is allowed. However, an approved caterer must do the serving.

MALIBOU LAKE MOUNTAIN CLUB
29033 West Lake Vista Drive, Aoura Hills 91301, (818) 753-6772
The Mountain Club was established in 1922 and the clubhouse was rebuilt in 1956. This beautiful facility overlooks Malibou Lake and has a large grassy area which includes a children's play area. Please download a complete brochure from their website for further information.

MAYFAIR HOTEL
1256 West Seventh Street, Los Angeles 90017, (213) 484-9789
This striking 1928 Beaux Arts-style building was restored in 1984. Receptions and parties are held in the Grand Ballroom which is furnished in a contemporary motif. 150 persons can be accommodated for a sit-down meal. If dancing is desired, there is a 110-person maximum There is in-house catering and a wide range of prices and menu selections are offered.

THE MOUNTAIN MERMAID
Topanga Canyon, (310) 455-3181
The hacienda style home was built in the 1930's as a country club, then in the 40's it was used as a summer camp and later a gambling house for Mickey Cohen who stored slot machines in the basement. The house went into financial crisis until it was purchased and restored in 1988 by Bill Buerge. The hacienda, which is nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, has white stucco walls and tile roof. Archways lead to a covered front porch and then you enter the large main hall, which has French doors, tall arched windows, and an enormous fireplace. Up to 150 people can be accommodated.

NATURE FRIENDS LODGE AND RETREAT CENTER
423 Yucca Trail, Sierra Madre 91024, (626) 355-0117
This secluded, rustic spot has two buildings constructed in the 1920’s in the Alpine style by Nature Friends club members. The area is surrounded by trees located in a fork of the Little Santa Anita Canyon. The facilities include the Lodge which has a wood-panelled 30' x 30' room with small stage, audio system and view of surrounding mountains. It can accommodate up to 100 persons. There is a small library, a bar, a fully equipped kitchen, and a dining room with tables and chairs to seat 70. Outside is a picnic area under shady oaks with barbecue, two porches and two terraces. You provide your own caterer.

NEIGHBORHOOD UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH
(formerly Cole House)
301 North Orange Grove Boulevard, Pasadena 91103, (626) 449-3470 x 13 Contact: Jacqueline Fox
The Cole House was designed by Greene & Greene in 1907 at 2 Westmoreland. Neighborhood Church acquired the property in 1969. Dominant features are the porte cochere on the front and massive stone chimneys on the north and south sides. Weddings may be conducted in the Sanctuary or the garden. Receptions may take place in the sanctuary garden. Up to 275 guests can be accommodated for weddings and receptions. There is an area for dancing, and wine, champagne, and beer are the only alcoholic beverages allowed. A limited number of tables and chairs are included.

ORCUTT RANCH
23600 Roscoe Boulevard, West Hills 91304, (818) 346-7449
Once used as a vacation home, this mission-style adobe house is a California State Historic Monument. Weddings may take place in the courtyard area between the ranch house and rose garden. The ranch house can accommodate up to 100 guests. There are 4 sites to choose from, one event is held at a time. Caterers must be licensed and insured. Live music allowed, no amplifiers, acoustic only. Kitchen facilities are available, but ovens may only be used for reheating. Up to 175 guests may be accommodated on the grounds. Orcutt Ranch is owned by the Parks and Recreation Department, and is available everyday between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Champagne, wine, and beer are allowed.

OVIATT PENTHOUSE
617 South Olive Street, Los Angeles, 90014, (310) 286-2989
Hailed as a “castle in the air” when it was completed in 1928, and touted in Buzz Magazine as one of the “50 coolest places in L.A, this beautifully furnished ten-room 1920's Art Deco penthouse with a garden terrace provides a unique setting for a variety of small, intimate, catered events. The finest imported materials are found throughout the quarters, including exquisite marble from southern France. Also distinctive are the design features that appear in the window, skylight and lighting treatments which were designed by Rene Lalique. The penthouse is available for a fee. Maximum occupancy is 125 people.

PACIFIC ASIA MUSEUM
46 North Los Robles, Pasadena 91101, (626) 449-2742
The beautiful gardens of this 1925 Chinese Mandarin Courtyard style building can accommodate up to 200 people. The gardens are entered by crossing an oriental style bridge that has a Koi pond beneath. There are Chinese plantings throughout the area. You provide your own caterer and music.

PADDISON FARM VICTORIAN ESTATE
11951 Imperial Highway, Norwalk 90650, (562) 863-4567
The grounds of this 19th century farm complex are available for weddings and parties. Weddings may be held in the gazebo or the veranda of the 1878 Victorian home used for a receiving line. The interior of the house is not available except for a bridal dressing room. Receptions are held in the landscaped orchard behind the home. Company picnics are held at the back of the farm. The fee is $2,000 for a garden wedding and reception. There is a 400 person wedding maximum, and 800 person corporate maximum.

THE PALACE
(currently The Avalon)
1735 North.Vine Street, Hollywood 90028, (323) 466-0270, info@avalonhollywood.com
The Avalon (formerly the Palace) was built in 1927 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. The club is made up of the main floor, balcony, and two opera boxes. The main floor holds 800 standing while the balcony and opera boxes hold a total of 300 seated. A full stage that is completely retractable if you need a bigger dance floor. Whether you're looking for lounge seating, standing room or cabaret seating, Avalon will accommadate you and your party.

PARAMOUNT STUDIOS COMMISSARY
5555 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood 90038-3197, (323) 956.8398
For eighty years guests have been entering Paramount Pictures through the world famous iron gates. Located within the privacy of Hollywood's only major studio, the Commissary at Paramount (built at a later date) offers several areas for weddings and receptions. The dining room can accommodate 300 for buffet and 180 for a sit-down meal. A garden patio adjoins the dining room. Stages may be available for larger events. There is an in-house caterer who offers a wide range of menu selections and prices. Complete event planning and coordination is available. Pricing is determined case by case.

PASADENA CIVIC
300 Green Street, Pasadena 91101, (626) 449-7360
The Gold Room, which is located in the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, is a magnificent room that will accommodate 200 for luncheons, dinners, or receptions. A very extensive menu is offered with a wide range of prices. Wedding ceremonies can be held in the room or in other locations around the center. Boston Culinary Group does all the catering.

PASADENA MASONIC TEMPLE
200 South Euclid Avenue, Pasadena 91101, (626) 578-9776
This 1926 Beaux Arts-style building was designed by Cyril Bennett and Sitch Haskell. It boasts a beautiful marble foyer, large ballroom, dining room, and conference room. The ballroom holds 300 for dinner and dancing and can be opened up to add an additional 96 people. There is an extra charge if this room is used. There is a list of caterers from which you may choose.

PETER STRAUSS RANCH
30000 Mulholland Highway, Agoura 91376, (805) 370-2308
Owned by the National Park Service, there is a large grassy area, small amphitheater, and an oak grove available. There is an old ranch house on the property, but it is off-limits. A use permit is required and a minimal hourly fee depending on number of guests.

POINT FERMAN PARK
807 Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro, CA 90731, (310) 548-7705
Wedding ceremonies can take place anywhere in the park except the lighthouse. The park overlooks the Pacific Ocean. A park permit is required. Up to 150 people can be accommodated and there is a range of fees. A picnic is suggested as there are no facilities for a reception.

QUEEN MARY HOTEL
1126 Queens Highway, Long Beach 90802-6390
Chapel (562) 499-1699 Catering Sales (562) 499-1749
The historic Queen Mary was built in Scotland, commissioned by the Cunard Steamship Co., Ltd., and was launched on September 26, 1934. The Queen Mary Royal Wedding Chapel and the deck are available for ceremonies. There are several package plans offered which include chapel rental, invitations, photography, and much more.

RICHARD J. RIORDAN CENTRAL LIBRARY
630 W. Fifth St., Los Angeles, 90071, (213) 228-7467

ROMANESQUE ROOM
50 East Green Street, Pasadena 91105, (626) 792-4444
Built in 1903, the Grand Ballroom is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A separate double-oak doorway with beautiful stained glass window leads to the exquisite ballroom named for its beautiful vaulted decorated ceiling. This lovely facility welcomes up to 300 guests for dinner and dancing in the graceful curved ballroom with a large airy attached bar and garden. The pillared interior lends itself to smaller groups as well.