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The Gamble House
4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States
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Di
Review №1

Great historical house to visit for all ages! With some amazing, unbelievable architecture touches up for that era-1908.

Jo
Review №2

As a Back to the Future fan I was delighted to see Doc Brown’s house. I wouldn’t have visited if it didn’t have that connection to the movie, but it was a fantastic home and a great example of American Arts and Crafts architecture. It looks almost exactly the same as it looked like in that classic film. I loved to see where Christopher Lloyd said lines like, “Ronald Reagan — the actor! I assume that Jane Wyman is the First Lady!”

Ga
Review №3

Im a Back to the Future nut,so seeing this place was a extra big treat! Going back to see the other homes used in the series soon. Theyre in the same area as the Gamble house. If you go,take a camera,as you can walk the property. The garage is a book store. Its amazing for a property that was built in 1908. Takes you back to that era of life back then. Its also a designated historical site donated to California and USC in 1976. Take one of the tours offered. $$

Ma
Review №4

Entry is by guided tour only for a minimal cost. If you like Art and Crafts design and lots of woodwork you will love this house. It should be noted that the inside of the house is extremely dark, even with all the lights on. The docents all have flashlights so you can see what is being explained!

AJ
Review №5

I love great architecture and this is one of the best! I can not believe how detailed the wood work is in this house. It uses rare woods that are extinct or not easily available any more. It is an iconic house that has been used in TV shows and movies most notably it was Doc Browns house in the Back to the Future movies.

Ke
Review №6

Woodworking is my hobby and Im a fan of the Greene and Greene style so my visit was a no brainer. This house is gorgeous. The tour was about 45 minutes and the docent was very knowledgeable.

Da
Review №7

I didnt see inside. The outside is beautiful. Different architecture and structure. Well maintained. The gardens, both front and back and nice and well taken care of with a variety of rocks and flowers. If you can stop by the little library and remember... back to the future movie was shoot there. That was Doc Brown house!!!

po
Review №8

This house is totally worth the visit, even if you’re not that big into architecture. Every single inch of it was masterfully designed and decorated and it’s interesting to see the living habits of such a prominent family back in the day. Not to mention, it’s the Back to the Future house! If you don’t want to make the trip to this side of town just for the house tour, I suggest taking the tour in the morning, having lunch in one of the many amazing restaurants in the neighborhood, then making your way to the Huntington Gardens to spend the rest of the day viewing amazing art and gardens.

Ka
Review №9

The Gamble House, also known as the David B. Gamble House, is an iconic American Craftsman home in Pasadena, California, designed by the architectural firm Greene and Greene. Constructed in 1908–09 as a home for David B. Gamble of the Procter & Gamble company, it is today a National Historic Landmark, a California Historical Landmark, and open to the public for tours and events.Originally built as a winter residence for David and Mary Gamble, the three-story Gamble House is commonly described as Americas Arts and Crafts masterpiece. Its style shows influence from traditional Japanese aesthetics and a certain California spaciousness born of available land and a permissive climate. The Arts and Crafts Movement in American Craftsman style architecture was focused on the use of natural materials, attention to detail, aesthetics, and craftsmanship.The house is located on a grassy knoll overlooking Pasadenas Arroyo Seco, a broad, seasonally dry river bed. Because of the Gambles’ attraction to the environment, the Greenes designed the house to complement the rustic setting. The houses design reflected the Gambles love of nature as flowers and trees were brought to the interior—creating pictures in wood, metal, art glass, and semi-precious stone. The building itself appears enmeshed with the landscape, achieved by a blend of man-made materials such as brick and rough dash-coat stucco and natural materials such as granite river stones and creeping fig that grows up onto the foundations of the terrace and steps.The house displays a strong influence of Japanese architecture. The abstraction of clouds and mist as well as the other oriental characteristics applied to the houses doors, windows, screens, beams, chair, lanterns, and more were another way that the house showed its emphasis on nature as forms found in nature are the inspiration for these patterns.Another way the Greenes showed off the Gamble Houses emphasis on nature was through the theme of three, which was composed of three components that could be seen in every room. The theme of three grouped objects together, sometimes symmetrically arranged, but often not. The use of asymmetry alongside the classical balance reflects natures welcoming of variety in proportions.

Ar
Review №10

Was a random visit but yet a awsome one. I met a former Navy fellow, and his two pups who were so cute. I hope the questions he asked, gets answered and everything works out. Good luck and thanks for your acquaintance.

En
Review №11

I have been wanting to see this house for a long time. It met all of our expectations. Home is immaculate even though its over 100 years old. For all of you Back to the Future fans...this was Doc Browns house.

Ri
Review №12

A truly magnificent house built by the Gamble family of Procter & Gamble in the early 1900s. A remarkable architectural structure that was way ahead of its time. The furniture was also designed the architects.You must take the tour, otherwise you really miss out on the history.

Fl
Review №13

Amazing docent tour. The rich historical building is an work of art. Visit to view one of the most beautiful arts and craft building in California.

Ce
Review №14

Truly a beautiful history home visit and explore around the LA area. The tour guides were very knowledgeable. I loved the asian influence that went into the design of the home. The best features are the carved wood and the stained glass which the tour guides pointed out in detail and it was just amazing walking into such a historic landmark.

Ju
Review №15

Craftsman California Bungalow architectural treasure in Pasadena. 1908 classic by renowned architects Greene & Greene. Built by the Gamble family of Proctor and Gamble corporation. Indoor tours available by appointment.

Ma
Review №16

One of the least well known attractions of the city, this little house provides an interesting look at the life style of the rich in the early 1900.It offers an interesting mix of art collection and architectural examples.

Ja
Review №17

One of the premier Green & Green Architect examples for Craftsman Style. Commissioned by the Wrigley family, the Gamble House uses trees once only available from Tahiti.Better known in modern times as Doc. Browns House from Back to the Future.

Er
Review №18

This is a wonderful historical relic. Its a beautiful house with a manicured garden. The history of the house is fascinating and the tour guide was very knowledgeable. I would absolutely go again.

Ro
Review №19

The tour is fascinating as the house is astoundingly gorgeous. Not to be missed if youre an architecture fan, and highly recommended for all others. The craftsmanship is beyond what you have seen, and the design holds many secrets.

Ca
Review №20

It deserves a visit!I took the 20’ tour and it was really interesting. My suggestion is to tale the complete tour.Someone told me it is the house where some scenes of “Back to the Future” were setted, but I am not sure about this information.

Li
Review №21

Our docent, Frank, was wonderful. You can tell he loves the architecture of the house and it comes thru in his description of the details in each room and the stories of the Gambles and their life. Thank you for the preservation of the history and your knowledge.

Mi
Review №22

I finally made it to The Gamble House! As a long tine Back to the Future fan (this is Doc Brown’s House) I don’t know what took me so long! This is also part of the Passport2History program.The inside of the Gamble House can only be accessed via a docent led tour. Book early or online! We got there right before they opened at 11:30 and the first TWO tours were sold out! So I had to hang around the grounds for an hour with my 4 year old. Luckily, the grounds are beautiful so we split our tine between the bookstore, the garden area (which has a water fountain, my sons favorite thing), the Lilly pad pond (complete with waterfall and fish), and other areas in the yard.Our guide, Roger was fantastic. He did his best to keep my son engaged. Full disclosure, this isn’t one of the more exciting Passport2History tours with small children. But the tour itself is very cool. The house is AMAZING!I do think they price themselves a bit out of five stars. I’d say this would be a 5 Star attraction for a $5-8 tour. It used to be 12.50 for years which also would have been doable (especially after the Passport2History’s 10% off). But they’ve raised their prices to $15, which is a bit much for what this is compared to other similar museum values. They should consider going back to what it was.That said, it still gets a solid 4 star rating which I totally recommend people check it out! Any fans of wood will flip inside!!!

Ga
Review №23

Unmatched example of the Craftsmen architectural movement. Lovingly restored and preserved interiors and furniture, all designed by the Greene & Greene firm. The wood finishes and exposed joinery are just a few of the wonders to be seen.

Ky
Review №24

Very worth the visit. so beautiful!

Le
Review №25

Spectacular step back in time to a work of art in architecture. Great place to visit for out of town guests or for your own staycation visit. I have toured this treasure many times & love it more with each visit! I highly recommend it for anyone that appreciates beauty.

Ol
Review №26

This house is one of the famous Greene & Greene one.

Am
Review №27

Very unique house, every detail is designed for this house in arts and crafts style mixed with Japanese style

Sh
Review №28

We stopped in Pasadena just for this tour and we found it to be very worthwhile. The docent was knowledgeable and patient with our diverse group of 10 people. They’ve done an excellent job making the history come alive with stories about the home’s origins and the Gamble family. I highly recommend the tour but be sure to book tickets in advance unless your schedule is very flexible. I’ve posted a photo of the beautiful front door’s glass.

St
Review №29

Awesome architecture of the house and impressive landscaping of the grounds from what I could see at night. Will definitely come back in the daytime to get a better look. The docents are all very knowledgeable about the house and its history.

Li
Review №30

Tours for this historic 1908 home that was built for the Gamble family are on Thurs-Sunday. The tour is every half hour and lasts an hour. Purchase tickets online as the tour often fills up. Cost is $15/adult, less for seniors, students and children. The home built by the Greene brothers is beautiful with art glass, several hard woods, Japanese joinery and design. The furniture by the Hall brothers is simple, elegant, Scandinavian. Our docent, Fred was very good and patient with all the questions. Be aware that there are three floors, so stairs to go up and down. Photos are allowed, no flash, no videos. A very nice bookstore with restroom is next door. No food is available. If you like architecture and historical homes, definitely see this home.

Er
Review №31

Early 20th century Arts and Crafts home in scenic Pasadena. 1-hr docent led tours available.

An
Review №32

Beautiful house, the architecture and design ,meaning of luxury living style, still impressive !!

El
Review №33

A place to see for all interested in architecture.

Jo
Review №34

Very cool place to visit. Lots of history here and the architecture is amazing. Would love to see the whole house.

Ke
Review №35

One of the most outstanding examples of craftsman architecture and design in the country. A magnificent home.

Ga
Review №36

Well its a museum. So cant touch nothing to include the wood. Beautiful and big house. Quite fastidious in the decor as well as succinct decor to boot.

Ba
Review №37

This place is a super example of an Arts and Crafts home. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommended.

Al
Review №38

The attention to detail in the Gamble house is amazing.

Ca
Review №39

A wonderful place to visit, the architecture and history are a rare look at craftsmanship from another era still beautifully maintained. They are well-organized and the docents knowledgeable about the family and the house. Questions are encouraged. Be aware there are stairs involved, for those with limited mobility. The garage is now a bookstore gift shop and worth a visit.

De
Review №40

What a great tour for $15! It was a bit longer than an hour because we just had so much fun. You can walk into almost all of the rooms on original run and there is such an incredible amount of original custom furniture, pottery, art, and lights. Such a treasure! The gift shop had some really great finds too. Well worth an hour or so of your time.

Ra
Review №41

Very informative and unique place to see

Pa
Review №42

Education @westmoreland next door. For autism kids

Mc
Review №43

Im a fan of Craftsman architecture so Ive always wanted to visit Gamble House. I wasnt disappointed. Its a beautiful, storied example of this movement where architecture was viewed holistically, as an opportunity to harmonize ones life and surroundings. So much thoughtfulness in the design. Plus, Great Scott! Doc Brown lived here!

Ja
Review №44

Excellent, informative tour of a truly lovely period house

Al
Review №45

Great Scott!!! Great event today. Back to the future. Beautiful house

Sh
Review №46

Beautifully built home - a work of art.

Ja
Review №47

The pinnacle of Craftsman architecture. This house is simply stunning from the outside and gorgeous inside, definitely worth the $12 for the guided tour

Me
Review №48

Fascinating home built in 1909. Tours are well worth it. Docents are very knowledgeable. Woodwork detail is amazing . Excellent example of Green and Green design and craftsmanship.

Lo
Review №49

Great scenery. Wonderful tour guide. Fabulous history and architecture.

ho
Review №50

Love to see how they use to live. Our homes may be smaller but we live better.

J
Review №51

I did the tour and everything. I would suggest only doing the tour if you are incredibly interested in this house and the subject. Casual visitors will probably not find it terribly interesting.

Ma
Review №52

A docent led tour of the Gamble house (Gamble family of Procter & Gamble) gives you a glimpse into how and why people came to Pasadena from the midwest, and also how people lived in 1906. Two styles influenced the architecture of the home. Beautiful woodworking inside. Worth the $15 for the tour.

An
Review №53

An exquisite house designed in the California prairie style with beautiful Asian influences into the fixtures and furniture. A must see and visit (led by docent) for the architecture junkie!

Je
Review №54

I enjoyed the tour and the architecture. The furnishings were understated but elegant. If you go be sure the docent uses a flashlight to reveal the otherwise unseen inlay of silver and semiprecious stone. If youre inclined to walking, Old Pasadena is only 20 minutes walk away.

Al
Review №55

Amazing place, especially for those who are not familiar with American Craftsman Style.

Ti
Review №56

Just amazing workmanship and design. This is truly a national treasure that should be protected at all costs. Cant wait to come back and discover more.

Ra
Review №57

Gorgeous grounds and beautiful architecture. The gift shop has such great books and sweet period appropriate gifts like art deco stained glass and jewelry.

Jo
Review №58

Looks nice from the outside. Got there and it was closed for tours when it was a scheduled tour time..make sure to call and check first. We drove quite a ways to check out a few things and nothing was open

Pa
Review №59

Articulate and knowledgeable docent brought the Arts and Crafts Era to life in a residence of the owner Gamble of P&G consumer products fame. This house is a must-see for aficionados of that era. The craftsmanship is of eternal quality and construction. Many great factoids shared and secrets revealed in the one-hour public tour.

Ge
Review №60

Wonderful example of American arts & crafts. Stunning design & outstanding woodworking.

ro
Review №61

We were entertaining friends from California, and enjoyed our ocean side table.

Ru
Review №62

Beautiful! unfortunately, the required guided tours are on very limited days and times only; so, plan ahead if youd like a peek inside! you can reserve online; the limited spaces available fully book several weeks ahead. theres limited street parking in front of the house thats clearly labeled for the gamble house only. the house bookstore and ticket office is directly next to the house. (the picturesque and famous colorado street bridge is about 400m from here.)

An
Review №63

Very nice historic house owned by the Gambles(Proctor&Gamble) that has been kept in nearly the exact arrangement since it was lived in. Tours are given daily by very knowledgeable volunteers. Pictures of the interior are allowed unlike on some other tours.

An
Review №64

Unbelievably beautiful. We did the behind the ropes tour. Well worth the time!

Er
Review №65

Well maintained. The docents are very professional.

Hu
Review №66

The Gamble house is one of a kind and is worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture or interior design. Skip the disappointing neighborhood walking tour and do your own tour after picking up a cheap map of the area in the book store.

Ga
Review №67

Amazing! I could almost hear Doc Brown say Great Scott! When I saw the grass hill between the house and the garage, I could almost see Dr. Emmett Brown scurrying down the hill with his blueprints saying I suppose Jane Wyman is the First Lady? And Jack Benny is Secretary of the Treasury! I only saw The Gamble House at night from the street, but Id very much like to go on the tour of the whole mansion. What a treasure it is, and sort of a time capsule of sorts, even without Back to the Future!

Je
Review №68

Went here on the free Back to the Future day. A little bit of a wait, but thats to be expected when its a big event. Staff was extremely welcoming and courteous! Surprisingly so for having so much to do! You could tell they were doing their best to accommodate the large crowd, while still giving you some cool history as you moved through the house! Would love to come back for the full tour!

Ca
Review №69

Couldnt make it to the tour, but this house is just amazing on the outside at night. It looks very detailed and well constructed from the outside.

Ra
Review №70

Great architecture, 1 hour tours provide tons of information

Ci
Review №71

The Gamble house is one of a kind and is worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture or interior design. Skip the disappointing neighborhood walking tour and do your own tour after picking up a cheap map of the area in the book store.

Za
Review №72

Amazing architecture and great tour. Im so glad this was able to be preserved, especially all the furniture to match the house

Ly
Review №73

Phenomenal home. Our docent was very knowledgeable however, she was a bit short with a few of the people in our group. I felt like she was very condescending at times.

AJ
Review №74

Amazing, just amazing. If you are into architecture then this is a must-see house. The design is fantastic and the interior is just as great as the exterior.

El
Review №75

The Gamble house is one of a kind and is worth a visit for anyone interested in architecture or interior design. Skip the disappointing neighborhood walking tour and do your own tour after picking up a cheap map of the area in the book store.

La
Review №76

This is a wonderfully preserved craftsman style house. Built as a turnkey project, wonderful details pointed out by knowledgeabe docents. Well worth the visit if you are in the area.

Li
Review №77

4. Westmoreland Avenue is Stunning and Elaborate view in Pasadena!! : 0!

Ed
Review №78

The Gamble house has to be one of the crown jewels of Pasadenas figurative cultural crown. Through its extensive restoration has kept it in its former glory, the house looks as it ever has. Without a doubt, the Gamble house needs not one more meaningless review to prove its legitimacy. A cannonical work of Greene and Greene, the house exemplifies the Craftsman style through its deeper attentiveness to detail.Equally attentive to details are their docents; never would I have imagined that such a house tour be so detailed.

Br
Review №79

Its very beautiful home. Its definitely worth visiting. I got there when it was closed so i did not get to do much,and if your a fan of Back to the Future,this is the home of Doc Brown.

he
Review №80

Wow!! Gorgeous!! Great guided tour.

Fa
Review №81

Wonderful all fans of architecture and arts & crafts should see it. Very good docent too

Am
Review №82

We stood in line for an hour to visit the Gamble House during Art Night. I would gladly wait another hour to see it again. It is beautiful. The guides were wonderful. Extremely friendly and informative. There was a Theremin player who was spectacular. Just for this I would travel far. It was otherwordly.To see the house at night was a special treat because its lamps are truly exceptional. Obviously they can only shine like that in the dark.

Ma
Review №83

One of the best remaining works of Greene and Greene. We visit the gamble house every year.

Ke
Review №84

We brought my Midwestern mother in law and she loved it, very friendly staff and very informative. If youre a milennial who loves modern decor and more interactive tours you might not enjoy your tour.

Br
Review №85

Visited the Gamble House for the first time during the Pasadena Art Night. What a beautiful place to see. Will definitely have to go back during the day to really experience the full tour. If handcrafted historic homes are your thing, the Gamble House is for you.

Ma
Review №86

Great tour; beautiful, iconic home

Tr
Review №87

Very cool to see this bit of American architecture in such pristine condition. The docent was very knowledgeable and friendly.

Ch
Review №88

What a great experience. We had a great tour made special by our docent. Worth doing if you like craftman style architecture. Call ahead for tour reservations.

LO
Review №89

BEAUTIFUL. Educational. Historical. Great for visitors of any age. Dont forget the wonderful gift shop with many Arts & Crafts objects to take with you.

T.
Review №90

Beautiful house with lots of little details. Very knowledgeable docents to guide you. Craftsmanship at its finest.

Bi
Review №91

Ive studdied Greene and Greene and have applied their style in clients homes and my house as well

ja
Review №92

A good tour to check out of you have never gone. The house and grounds are very beautiful.

M.
Review №93

A beautiful art and craft home - well worth a tour. This house is incredibly well preserved and restored. The outdoor and indoor areas are breathtaking. There is parking in the lot. When they hold their special weekend activities and celebrations, they really open things up and this special house comes more alive. Photos are welcome to take. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and detailed and passionate about this beautiful gem of a house.

Da
Review №94

Gotta love seeing Doc Browns place

Aa
Review №95

Wow. Great docents. They have kept a fairly delicate property in good shape.

Ja
Review №96

Wish I could give it TEN stars!! Absolutely GORGEOUS in every way.

Jo
Review №97

The construction details in this house are amazing. I like to sit on the porch just to relax. The tours are very informative and a good value. The bookstore features arts & crafts and mission style titles and gifts. Pick up a free map to neighboring Greene and Greene homes.

Me
Review №98

Doc Browns 1955 house in Back to the Future! Loved the style and architecture of the house.

Al
Review №99

Just right tour with docent. Do see recent videos about the architects and the house before going. It is an architectural gem. Dont be surprised how dark it is inside. Bring a flashlight to better view details.

Na
Review №100

Lovely place

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States
  • Site:https://gamblehouse.org/
  • Phone:+1 626-793-3334
Categories
  • Museum
  • Book store
  • Historical landmark
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:10am–3pm
  • Wednesday:10am–3pm
  • Thursday:10am–3pm
  • Friday:10am–3pm
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:Closed
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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