Since its 2023 debut, Apple TV’s hit series “Shrinking” has charmed audiences with its unique blend of “introspective comedy” and heartfelt drama. Starring Jason Segel as Jimmy Laird – a grieving therapist who decides to ditch the rulebook and tell his clients exactly what’s on his mind – the show features a powerhouse cast including Jessica Williams and the legendary Harrison Ford.
Now three seasons deep, “Shrinking” continues to balance heavy emotional themes with laugh-out-loud moments. Beyond the sharp writing and stellar acting, many fans find themselves captivated by the show’s beautiful backdrop. If you’ve ever wondered where those sunny, inviting scenes are actually filmed, you’re in luck: the locations are just as charming in real life and make for a perfect travel itinerary. Here is a closer look at the places that give “Shrinking” its signature West Coast feel.
Los Angeles’ Beauty Is The Perfect Backdrop For ‘Shrinking’
Key Scenes: While “Shrinking” perfectly captures the suburban charm of Pasadena, California, the series is firmly rooted in the greater Los Angeles area. By blending real-world locations and high-end studios, the production creates a relatable, sun-drenched version of Southern California that grounds its emotional storytelling. According to Decider, LA was the ideal filming hub due to its diverse resources and relaxed coastal atmosphere. This allows the show to transition seamlessly between intimate suburban moments and the broader energy of the city.
Best Time to Visit: If you’re planning a trip to see these iconic sights in person, timing is everything. For the best experience, aim to visit Los Angeles County during the spring or fall. During these periods, you’ll enjoy mild, pleasant temperatures (typically between 65°F and 80°F). Plus, by avoiding the peak summer months, you’ll find shorter lines at local cafes and more breathing room at popular filming landmarks.
Transportation Options: Navigating the sprawling landscape of LA can feel like a mission, but with a little planning, getting to those “Shrinking” locations is quite manageable. If you plan to explore the broader area or want to hop between various filming sites at your own pace, renting a car is your best bet. For those who prefer to skip the stress of parallel parking and navigation, Uber and Lyft are everywhere.
Since its inception, the sprawling entertainment hub of Los Angeles has served as the primary production home for “Shrinking.” Season one kicked off filming in April 2022 and wrapped that August, utilizing a mix of iconic cityscapes and professional studio spaces to bring the story to life. While much of what’s seen on-screen feels organic, high-end studio work is essential for consistency. Much of the series is filmed at the legendary Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, where many of the interior sets are housed.
Things to Do: Los Angeles is a playground for film and TV buffs, offering a deep dive into the industry that makes shows like “Shrinking” possible. Located on the Miracle Mile, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a must-visit for cinema history. Nearby, you can also tour the Warner Bros. Studios or simply stroll through the iconic Sunset Strip.
Where to Eat: Los Angeles is well known for its thriving and diverse culture. This means travelers can expect a good assortment of culinary options. Local favorites include BOA Steakhouse near Sunset Strip or The Smoke House in Burbank. For a quick bite, an In-N-Out Burger stop will do the trick.
Where to Stay: For that “A-list” lifestyle, staying at a spot like The London West Hollywood puts you in the heart of the action. You’ll be close to iconic landmarks and high-end dining, capturing the show’s upscale vibe. If your trip is all about the “industry,” Universal City is the place to be. Staying at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City keeps you steps away from Universal Studios and just a short hop over the hill to Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank (where “Shrinking” is filmed).
Pasadena Is The Show’s Main Filming Location
Key Scenes: Pasadena has long been a favorite backdrop for Hollywood, but you might not always recognize it – usually, it’s busy “pretending” to be a small town in Indiana or a neighborhood in New York. However, as Forbes reports, “Shrinking” makes the refreshing choice to let Pasadena play itself. One of the most recurring settings is the “mini therapy sessions” between Paul (Harrison Ford) and Alice (Lukita Maxwell). These heart-to-hearts often take place on a specific park bench in Pasadena’s Central Park, with the stunning, historic Castle Green building visible in the background.
Best Time to Visit: To make the most of your “Shrinking” pilgrimage, timing is everything. While Southern California is famous for its sunshine, spring and fall are widely considered the “sweet spots” for visiting Pasadena. During these months, you’ll avoid the intense summer heat and the occasional winter rains, making it the perfect climate for a self-guided walking tour of the show’s iconic neighborhoods.
Transportation Options: Pasadena’s layout is a dream for visitors, offering a variety of ways to get around without feeling trapped in a car. Old Pasadena is the crown jewel of walkability. Most of the show’s urban scenes, coffee shops and boutiques are concentrated in this historic district, making it easy to see several filming spots in a single afternoon. For those coming from Downtown Los Angeles, the Metro A Line (formerly the Gold Line) is your best friend. It drops you off right in the heart of the action at stations like Del Mar or Memorial Park.
If you’re a fan of “Shrinking,” walking through Pasadena feels a bit like stepping onto a live set. Because the show embraces its real-life location rather than hiding it, you can visit the exact spots where Jimmy, Paul and Alice navigate their complicated lives.
A true national landmark, the Rose Bowl isn’t just for football and parades. In this Apple TV original, it serves as the setting for one of Jimmy’s more impulsive – and technically illegal – decisions. Even when there isn’t a game, the stadium area is a local favorite for walking and biking. According to Rose City Homes, its historic charm and massive scale make it an incredibly photogenic stop.
Things to Do: As one of the city’s oldest public spaces, Central Park is perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll. It’s a favorite local hangout that captures the quiet, community-focused side of the characters’ lives. For a change of pace, head to the 190-acre nature preserve at Eaton Canyon. It was used for the show’s more rugged outdoor scenes, features hiking trails, seasonal streams and a famous waterfall.
Where to Eat: Although local eateries don’t play a huge part in the series, fans may want to visit the coffee shop that was featured in episode two of “Shrinking,” as Rose City reports. The Copa Vida coffee shop in Old Pasadena is where Jason Segel’s character meets a patient, and a sharp-witted barista makes hilarious comments about small talk. For a more upscale dining experience around Old Pasadena, there is Union, a highly rated Italian restaurant. Additionally, travelers can find a casual and affordable bite at Russell’s, which serves classic American cuisine.
Where to Stay: Pasadena has a unique architectural charm, which the series explores a bit. However, most of the historic district’s homes are private, meaning travelers can’t stay there. As Forbes reports, those who want to get a feel for the suburban backdrop of “Shrinking” can check out the Craftsman Homes from a distance or during special demonstration home tours. For a comfortable nearby stay, travelers can check out The Westin Pasadena or the Hilton Pasadena. These are both considered cozy and charming accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “Shrinking” based on a true story?
According to People, “Shrinking” is not necessarily based on a true story, but it is inspired by real-life grief. As writer Bill Lawrence shares, he based the central character, Jimmy, on a real person he knew who was grieving the loss of family members.
Why did Harrison Ford do “Shrinking”?
Despite Harrison Ford’s long-standing commitment to never retire from acting, many fans didn’t expect him to join a project like “Shrinking.” In the series, he plays Dr. Paul Rhoades, Jimmy’s mentor and colleague. As Variety reports, he told creator Brett Goldstein, “I liked the writing. I liked the character. I liked the intention. I liked the combination of pathos and comedy. I didn’t see anything unattractive about the whole thing.”
Is there a season four of “Shrinking”?
Yes, as Apple announced right before the Jan. 28, 2026, premiere of season three, there will be a season four of “Shrinking”. Episodes of season three will roll out each week until Apr. 8, so fans can expect season four to release sometime after that.
