![Dr. Zanita Kelly, Director of Lower and Middle School, pictured above, and the rest of Westridge Administration were instrumental to providing Westridge faculty and staff the support they needed after the Eaton fire. "[Teachers] are part of the community," said Dr. Kelly. "Just like our families and students."](https://westridgespyglass.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/dr.-kellyyy-1-e1748143600809.png)
Welcome to Metro Stop Highlights, a series where we showcase the various stops along the A Line Metro in Los Angeles, California. Our ninth stop is Memorial Park. As you exit the Metro in Memorial Park, you’re instantly greeted by various shops and restaurants making up Old Town Pasadena. Whether you’re contemplating between Shaved Iced from Oakobing or exploring Pasadena City Hall, here are some of our favorite things to do near the station.
Oakobing Shaved Ice
At Oakobing, you can enjoy over six different kinds of fresh Bingsu, a popular Korean shaved ice dessert. In addition to their delicious frozen desserts, Oakobing also has drinks available for purchase, including their iconic take on matcha: an elevated version of the drink with frozen matcha shaved ice on top.
Criterion Coffee
Between the Ricotta and Seasonal Fruit Toast and the classic Breakfast Croissant, Criterion Coffee’s options will leave you craving both their sweet and savory delicacies. In addition to their 25-plus food options, Criterion Coffee has a full drink menu, making it the perfect place to treat your hanger (hunger-related anger) before embarking on the after-school homework grind.
Commune Records
Did you purchase a record player that sits in your room collecting dust? I sure didn’t, but after walking into Commune, I almost wish I did! Upon pushing open the glass door, you will be greeted with countless bins of records, ranging from Rock to Jazz. If you’re looking to begin your next record collection, this is the place for you!
Pasadena City Hall
After exiting the station, you are instantly greeted by the Pasadena City Hall filling the skyline. Designed in the 1920s, City Hall is known for its Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, towering over five stories. Open to the general public, the outdoor courtyard is commonly used for photoshoots of weddings, birthdays, or portraits. Whether you want to visit the interior or admire the outside courtyard and fountain, you are welcome to explore all aspects of Pasadena City Hall.
Hömage
The moment you enter Hömage, the warm and friendly environment instantly greets you. With colorful, unique crafts and handmade jewelry, if you are in need of a gift, this is the place for you. Homage is defined as “an expression of reverence or high regard towards someone or something.” One of the store’s goals aligns with the definition as the store “pays homage to small artisans.” Only a four-minute walk from the station, you can find the perfect item at your next visit to Hömage!
