Things To Do
in Pasadena
Pasadena is a city located in Los Angeles County in Southern California, known for its historic architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Home to the iconic Rose Bowl stadium, Pasadena hosts the annual Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year's Day. The city is also renowned for its prestigious educational institutions, including the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and the ArtCenter College of Design.
Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in Pasadena, such as hiking in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains or exploring the lush gardens of the Huntington Library.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful Huntington Library and Gardens.
Explore the historic Old Town Pasadena for some shopping and dining. Don't forget to check out the Pasadena Museum of California Art.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with a view of the San Gabriel Mountains. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the Paseo Colorado shopping area.
Kickoff your morning with coffee at a local roastery, followed by a visit to the Norton Simon Museum. Enjoy the impressive collection of art from different cultures.
Have lunch at a trendy restaurant nearby. Then head to the California Institute of Technology for a guided tour of its stunning campus.
In the evening, visit the historic Pasadena Playhouse for a performance. Wrap up with dinner at a nearby bistro.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful architecture and historic landmarks, such as the Gamble House and the Pasadena Playhouse.
- Access to cultural events and institutions, including museums, theaters, and music festivals.
- Mild climate with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
- Proximity to the San Gabriel Mountains for hiking and nature activities.
- Diverse dining scene with a wide range of culinary options.
- Strong sense of community with numerous events and festivals throughout the year.
- High cost of living, including housing prices and rental rates.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and around major attractions.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger urban areas.
- Air quality issues due to pollution and nearby highways.
- Some areas may experience homelessness and social challenges.
- The earthquake risk typical of Southern California.
Best Activities in Pasadena
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and a beautiful waterfall in Eaton Canyon.
Take a leisurely bike ride around the iconic Rose Bowl stadium and its picturesque surroundings.
Relax and unwind in this peaceful garden oasis, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pasadena with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pasadena
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a beautiful view of the Arroyo Seco and the San Gabriel Mountains, popular for photography and sightseeing.
Features stunning gardens and architecture, providing picturesque views for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Boasts scenic hiking trails and a waterfall, ideal for capturing the natural beauty and landscapes of Pasadena.
Food in Pasadena
Pasadena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish made with fresh garlic and crispy fries, often served at local pubs and sports bars. Try Lucky Baldwins Pub or Barney's Beanery for delicious garlic fries.
Must-Try!
Drawing inspiration from nearby coastal regions, Pasadena offers delightful fish tacos made with fresh seafood and vibrant flavors. Visit Baja Cali Fish & Tacos for an authentic experience.
A classic dish that originated in California, the Cobb salad is a must-try in Pasadena. Enjoy a refreshing Cobb salad at The Cheesecake Factory or Green Street Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pasadena better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the bustling Old Pasadena Farmers' Market where you can find fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food. Don't miss the gourmet food trucks offering a variety of cuisines.
A vibrant showcase of Asian street food and culinary delights, the 626 Night Market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Explore a wide range of Asian street food vendors offering everything from sushi burritos to boba tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Pasadena, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others. Avoid standing too close or touching someone without permission.
Pasadena is known for its diverse population, so it's important to be mindful of cultural differences and be respectful towards people from different backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs.
Take the time to learn about local customs and traditions in Pasadena, such as greetings, gestures, and social etiquette, and make an effort to adhere to them when interacting with locals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pasadena with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pasadena
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pasadena, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Pasadena is commonly done using credit or debit cards, but cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment options, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are becoming increasingly popular in various establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pasadena.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Pasadena as the city comes alive with colorful blooms and ideal weather for outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking.
Expect warm temperatures and a lively atmosphere with events like the Pasadena Chalk Festival and outdoor concerts.
Great time to visit for comfortable weather and events like the Pasadena ARTWalk and the Rose Bowl Flea Market.
While temperatures can be cooler, Pasadena still offers festive events and holiday celebrations, including the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game.
Pasadena at Night
Hiking in Pasadena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot featuring a stunning waterfall and scenic views. This trail offers a moderate hike suitable for various skill levels.
A challenging trail that leads to the summit of Mount Wilson, offering panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley and the Los Angeles skyline.
A moderate hike leading to Henninger Flats, providing beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains and a campground for overnight stays.
A scenic area featuring multiple trails, waterfalls, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Great for families and all experience levels.
A relatively easy hike that includes views of the dam and river, along with opportunities to explore nature and enjoy birdwatching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pasadena through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Pasadena by plane.
The primary airport serving Los Angeles and one of the busiest airports in the world, located approximately 30 miles from Pasadena.
A smaller airport located about 10 miles from Pasadena, offering domestic flights and some international services.
Located approximately 20 miles from Pasadena, this airport serves the Long Beach area with domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Orange County, about 40 miles from Pasadena, this airport serves the greater Los Angeles area and offers numerous domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 35 miles from Pasadena, this airport serves the Inland Empire region with both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising a significant portion of the population, predominantly of European descent.
This group includes individuals of Latin American descent, contributing to a diverse cultural landscape.
Includes individuals of various Asian backgrounds, with notable populations from China, India, and the Philippines.
Represents a smaller segment of the population, with contributions to the cultural and historical context of the city.
Individuals identifying with two or more races, reflecting the city's increasing diversity.
Includes Native American, Pacific Islander, and other racial groups not classified in the main categories.
The Soul of Pasadena
Discover the essence of Pasadena through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Pasadena is home to the Rose Bowl, which hosts college football games, including the annual Rose Bowl Game, attracting fans and players from across the country.
Baseball has a strong following in Pasadena, with local leagues and teams participating at various levels, as well as the presence of the nearby Los Angeles Dodgers.
Soccer has gained popularity in Pasadena, with youth leagues and adult leagues thriving, along with the support of Major League Soccer in nearby Los Angeles.
Basketball is widely played and followed in Pasadena, with local schools and community organizations offering various leagues and programs.
Pasadena has several tennis courts and clubs, making it a popular sport for both recreational and competitive players in the area.
The city features several golf courses and country clubs, making it a popular sport among residents and visitors who enjoy the game.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pasadena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pasadena's culinary scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans with many restaurants offering dedicated plant-based menus. Look for options at places like Sage Vegan Bistro, Real Food Daily, and Green Earth Vegan Cuisine.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can explore the various gluten-free friendly eateries in Pasadena, including True Food Kitchen, The Counter, and Fresh Brothers, known for offering gluten-free pizzas.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Pasadena with these cultural adventures.
