Want a perfect blend of elegance, history, and SoCal sunshine? Head to Pasadena! Just northeast of Los Angeles, Pasadena offers beautiful architecture, world-class museums, lush gardens, and a thriving food and arts scene. From the iconic Rose Bowl to charming Old Town, Pasadena makes a stylish and culture-rich getaway.
Pasadena, CA Highlights:
- For Art Lovers: Explore The Norton Simon Museum – See works by Degas, Van Gogh, and Picasso alongside serene sculpture gardens.
- For Architecture Buffs: Tour The Gamble House – A stunning example of American Arts and Crafts architecture.
- For Shoppers: Stroll through Old Pasadena – Historic district full of boutiques, cafés, galleries, and nightlife.
- For Garden Enthusiasts: Wander the Huntington Library and Gardens – Stroll through themed gardens and explore rare books and fine art.
- For Sports Fans: Experience the Rose Bowl – Attend a football game, flea market, or the iconic Rose Parade in January.
Best Time to Visit Pasadena, CA
The best time to visit Pasadena is from late fall through spring (October to May), with mild weather and seasonal events like the Rose Parade. Spring and early summer also offer beautiful garden blooms and fewer crowds than nearby L.A. hot spots.
How to Get to Pasadena, CA
- If you are traveling by car: Pasadena is just off I-210 and only 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles.
- By Metro: The Metro L Line (Gold Line) connects Union Station in L.A. to multiple stops in Pasadena.
- By Plane: The closest airports are Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR, 25 min) and LAX (40–50 min by car).
Where to Stay in Pasadena, CA
- The Langham Huntington – Luxury resort in a historic mansion with sprawling gardens and spa amenities.
- Sheraton Pasadena Hotel – Centrally located near the Convention Center and Old Town with modern comforts.
- Hotel Dena – A stylish, artsy boutique hotel with bold design and walkable to restaurants and theaters.
Best Things to Do in Pasadena, CA
⮕ Norton Simon Museum
Admire European masterpieces and explore sculpture gardens in this peaceful, romantic art attraction.
© Norton Simon Museum
Housing one of the most remarkable private art collections, the Norton Simon Museum
has artwork and artifacts collected by industrialist Norton Simon from the early 1900s onward. There are over 12,000 objects in the permanent collection at the museum, and visitors are privy to view over 1,000 of them on display in the galleries or the sculpture garden.
The museum hosts many classes, programs, and lectures, meaning visitors can take up a drawing class or an art-making workshop. Some of the more celebrated works include the Branchini Madonna by Giovanni di Paolo, Portrait of a Boy by Rembrandt van Rijn, and Mulberry Tree by Vincent van Gogh.
411 West Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91105-1825, 626-449-6840
⮕ Huntington Library and Gardens
Stroll lush gardens or explore rare books during an inspiring, unforgettable weekend trip.
© Courtesy of wolterke - Fotolia.com
Founded in 1919 by Henry E. Huntington, The Huntington Library and Gardens is an ode to the three things Henry loved: books, art, and gardens.
The art collection is scattered throughout three galleries on the Huntington grounds, and it is one of the most comprehensive collections with 18th to 19th century British, French, and American art.
After viewing the marvelous pieces on display, visitors can then wander into the 120-acre botanical gardens that have an ever-changing exhibition of color – Henry H. started the garden with an array of plants from around the world, and visitors can now see them in the Desert Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, or the Chinese Garden.
1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, CA 91108, 626-405-2100
⮕ The Gamble House
Tour this Arts and Crafts masterpiece and discover architectural beauty in a quiet setting.
© The Gamble House
The Gamble House
was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1978, and rightfully so. The house takes visitors on a journey to 1908, when architects Charles and Henry Greene furnished and designed the house for David and Mary Gamble of the Procter & Gamble Company.
Architecture aficionados will appreciate the outstanding model of American arts-and-crafts style architecture that the house displays. Visitors can enjoy one-hour docent-led tours on Thursday to Sunday from noon onwards, and there are also specialty tours available for those who want a more focused tour of the house, its furnishings, and architecture.
4 Westmoreland Place, Pasadena, CA 91103, 626-793-3334
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Old Pasadena
Shop, dine, or walk historic streets and enjoy an easy, exciting day out.
© Courtesy of angeldibilio - Fotolia.com
If you are looking for an authentic historic downtown experience, Old Pasadena
will not disappoint. The diverse city is ten miles from downtown LA and is filled with numerous activities for adults and kids; museums, galleries, movies, restaurants, and shopping are abundant in the area.
Visitors are invited to enjoy the many scheduled musical and outdoor events that occur throughout the year such as the Old Pasadena Food Tasting Tour or one of the many street exhibitions. Combining old world charm and modern convenience, visitors can shop in a combination of over 200 specialty boutiques or national retailers.
23 E. Colorado Boulevard, Suite 200, Pasadena, CA 91105, 626-356-9725
⮕ Jet Propulsion Laboratory
See real space tech and explore NASA innovations on an unusual, educational trip.
© Courtesy of atgc_01 - Fotolia.com
Managed by Caltech for NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory is responsible for the construction of robotic spacecraft, astronomy missions, and many deep space projects. Some of these include the famed Mars Science Laboratory, the Curiosity rover, and the NuSTAR X-ray telescope.
Visitors are invited to tour the facilities, but reservations must be made in advance. Live demonstrations of JPL science and technology, a multimedia presentation, the von Karman Visitor Center, and a tour of the Space Flight Operations facility and Spacecraft Assembly Facility are all part of the two and a half hour tour.
4800 Oak Grove Dr., Pasadena, CA 91109, 818-354-4321
⮕ Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden
Walk along koi ponds and admire tranquil beauty in this romantic hidden gem.
© Natalia/stock.adobe.com
The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden is the only surviving example of Japanese landscape design by the legendary Kinzuchi Fujii, who created many Japanese gardens across California in the early 20th century. Carefully positioned on 2 acres of land, the garden is the epitome of beauty and serenity. There are several ponds and a 15 foot waterfall to admire as you stroll through the garden to visit the formal Tea House. These days the gardens are mostly used as a wedding or event venue but they do host open days and are open to the public on weekends provided that you register online.
270 Arlington Drive, Pasadena, CA 91105, 626 399 1721
Recommended Activities for Families
⮕ Eaton Canyon Nature Center
Hike scenic trails or explore exhibits and enjoy a fun, affordable family outing.
© Courtesy of Kit Leong - Fotolia.com
Located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, the a class="ref1" href="https://parks.lacounty.gov/eaton-canyon-natural-area-and-nature-center/" target="_blank">Eaton Canyon Nature Center is a great place to spend the day immersed in nature; visitors of all ages can come explore the 7,600 square-foot building and the surrounding 190 acres of zoological, botanical, and geological nature preserve that it sits on.
Explore the streams, rocks and minerals, native plants, habitats, and the wildlife in the surrounding area. The center itself is filled with fascinating exhibits and displays, as well as live animals. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and equestrian trails, and there is a staging area and picnic area available for use. Tours and scheduled walks are also available.
1750 N. Altadena Dr, Pasadena, CA 91107, 626-398-5420
⮕ Kidspace Children's Museum
Let kids play, learn, and discover science in this exciting, hands-on attraction.
© Kidspace Children's Museum
Launched in 1979 at Caltech, the Kidspace Children's Museum is a place for children to be inspired and release their creativity through an informal, hands-on educational approach. With over 200,000 guests annually, the museum is filled with exhibits and hosts events and programs, allowing visitors to unleash their imagination.
Some of the exhibits include the Arroyo Adventure garden, the Stone Hollow Amphitheater, and the Galvin Physics Forest. Art, nature, science – everything is a go at the Kidspace Children’s Museum. Some of their more popular features include the Kidspace Critters area, which houses a live collection of reptiles and bugs, and the Imagination Workshop, where kids can discover the inner workings of everyday objects.
4 80 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103, 626-449-9144
Where to Eat in Pasadena, CA
- Russell’s – Cozy breakfast and brunch spot with a vintage diner feel and classic comfort food.
- Bone Kettle – Southeast Asian fusion with rich bone broths, small plates, and modern ambiance.
- Union – Farm-to-table Italian fare with seasonal menus and intimate seating in Old Pasadena.
If you are interested in local events:
- Rose Parade (January 1) – Celebrate the New Year with floral floats and marching bands along Colorado Blvd.
- Pasadena Chalk Festival (June) – A two-day art explosion where the pavement becomes a canvas.
- ArtNight Pasadena (Spring & Fall) – Free city-wide arts celebration with performances, exhibitions, and museum access.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Pasadena, California:
- Downtown Los Angeles (25–30 min) – Visit The Broad Museum, Grand Central Market, and Walt Disney Concert Hall.
- Griffith Park & Observatory (20–25 min) – Hike trails, see city views, and stargaze through public telescopes.
- Glendale Americana at Brand (15–20 min) – Outdoor shopping and dining complex with fountains, movies, and rooftop views.
- Descanso Gardens (15–20 min) – Peaceful botanical gardens with camellias, oaks, and seasonal light shows.
- San Gabriel Mountains (20–30 min) – Escape into nature with hiking, picnicking, and scenic drives nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is Pasadena known for?
- Pasadena is known for its sports, arts, and sciences, with landmarks like the annual Rose Bowl football game, the California Institute of Technology, and the Tournament of Roses Parade.
- What is the Tournament of Roses Parade?
- The Tournament of Roses Parade is an annual event held since 1890, showcasing creative floats made with flowers and greenery.
- What are some popular attractions in Pasadena?
- Pasadena offers numerous attractions such as the Rose Bowl, California Institute of Technology, and various cultural and scientific landmarks.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming gardens. |
The Langham Huntington, Pasadena – A luxury resort with spa and fine dining. |
Explore the Huntington Library & Gardens – See stunning botanical gardens and rare manuscripts. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm and great for outdoor activities. |
Hotel Dena, Pasadena – A trendy boutique hotel close to Old Pasadena. |
Attend a Concert at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium – Enjoy live entertainment in a historic venue. |
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and fewer crowds. |
Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Pasadena/Old Town – A cozy stay near restaurants and shops. |
Visit the Norton Simon Museum – Explore world-class art collections in an intimate setting. |
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive, highlighted by the Rose Parade. |
Sheraton Pasadena Hotel – A great location for experiencing New Year's events. |
Watch the Rose Parade & Rose Bowl Game – Experience Pasadena’s most iconic New Year’s tradition. |
Map:
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