The culturally rich San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys are filled with unique off-site venues, from museums to gardens to theaters.
Following are just a few of the options available.
In Pasadena, The Pacific Asia Museum (626.449.2742; www.pacificasiamuseum.org) contains more than 14,000 examples of art and artifacts from Asia and the Pacific Islands, including a new Korean Gallery that opened earlier this year. The museum offers a number of options for group events, including its courtyard, which seats 120 for sit-down dinners and 300 for a buffet or cocktails. The Conservatory Auditorium seats 100 people, while the Garden View Gallery seats 40 guests.
The Autry National Center (323.667.2000; www.autrynationalcenter.org) in Griffith Park, formerly known as the Autry Museum of Western Heritage, was co-founded by Gene and Jackie Autry and Monte and Joanne Hale. One of its three institutions is the Museum of the American West, which offers 50,000 square feet of space for groups, including the lobby, heritage court and plaza. Classrooms and the Wells Fargo Theater are available for meetings.
In Van Nuys, the Japanese Garden (818.756.8166; www.thejapanesegarden.com) is open to groups Monday through Thursday. The Shoin Building accommodates up to 75 people and features panels on three sides overlooking the garden. Evening cocktail events are possible before dusk, and during the day groups can rent the facility for luncheons.
The Alex Theatre (818.243.2611; www.alextheatre.org) in Glendale, which showcases performing arts and film, offers an auditorium accommodating 1,381 people and an outdoor courtyard hosting up to 340 guests. In addition, the Alexander Terrace can be used for receptions.
