The Bissell House, named for the original owner, a daughter of the floor-cleaning magnates, is the third-oldest house in South Pasadena and has plenty of historical cred.

Albert Einstein was feted in the dining room by the original owner at the very same table that today's guests still use. Each room is individually decorated by the antiques-collecting innkeeper; The Garden Room is the most luxurious and popular with honeymooners, no doubt due to the Jacuzzi bathtub big enough for two. Though this inn has a pronounced Victorian feel, all bathrooms are en-suite and renovated, and even the smallest guest rooms have a sitting area. In addition to the included breakfast, wine, tea, and snacks are always available on the main floor. The pool is a nice addition. Guest staying during the Rose Parade can walk across the street and view the floats and the pre-parade festivities in the staging area the night before the parade. —Katherine Spiers