10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Pasadena
How to explore this artsy, walkable LA town
Explore Pasadena, California for your next outing, romantic getaway, family gathering, family vacation, staycation, friendcation, and more.
Home to America's Stadium
The Rose Bowl Stadium is a legendary sports stadium, but it moonlights as a killer venue for other special events.
- Find your favorite artists and bands on the lineups for Cruel World and Just Like Heaven.
- Grab a bite from over 200 vendors offering multi-cultural food at Foodieland Night Market.
- Shop among LA trendsetters at the world-famous Rose Bowl Flea Market.
- Catch 'em all at the Pokémon Go Tour that takes over the city for a three-day Pokémon experience.
Places to Stay with Pets
Traveling with furry friends is easy, safe, and fun at Pasadena’s pet-friendly hotels. Some hotels offer special packages that will pamper your pets. After exploring Greater Los Angeles, take a walk with your pup to visit these restaurants with canine culinary experiences.
Art All Around Town
Appreciate the beauty of Pasadena while strolling past some of the many sculptures and murals that honor the city's rich history and history makers like Jackie Robinson, Brandi Chastain, and more.
Captivating Performances
The Pasadena Playhouse earned the 2023 Regional Tony-Award, and according to the distinguished LA Times theater critic Charles McNulty, it is living up to its official designation as the state theater of California. It's the home of top-tier productions, full of original content, and features world-talented performers. The show doesn't stop there, as Pasadena is home to several performing arts centers. The legendary Ice House Comedy Club is the oldest club in the country. Howie Mandel, Robin Williams, and Rosie O'Donnell are among some of the notable comedic performances.
Culinary Passport
Pasadena's multicultural cuisine takes you around the world. For our vegan and restrictive diet friends, taste your way through the top vegan & plant-based hotspots. Stick to your favorite cuisine or explore your tastebuds at Michelin recommended restaurants:
Engaging Museums
Pasadena has interactive and engaging experiences for all ages and interests. From space explorers to history buffs to art enthusiasts, there's something for everyone.
Diverse Neighborhoods
Old Pasadena is well-known and well-loved. There's more personality woven into the city throughout the historic Bungalow Heaven, bustling South Lake Avenue, and other neighborhoods a short walk away from each other.
Architectural Gems
Adorned throughout the city, historic landmarks and buildings reflect the diverse architectural heritage. Strolling past the Colorado Street Bridge, City Hall, and Civic Auditorium doesn't require much planning. A truly memorable experience in April to mid-May is Pasadena Showcase House of Design. The annual event opens the doors to historic homes, spotlighting local interior designers and artisans.
Surrounded by Flora & Fauna
In Pasadena, any month is a good time to uncover the lush, natural areas outdoors that feel a world away from the city’s blend of urban and suburban landscapes. Spend a day at any of the botanical gardens to see what's blooming in the city of roses. The Pasadena Audubon Society has the resources for birding enthusiasts and suggests popular birding spots are at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and the Hahamonga Watershed Park. The Arroyo Seco is full of varied experiences, including archery, hiking, biking, and other recreation.
Uniquely Pasadena Events
Pasadena is also home to America's New Year's tradition, the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game. A few weeks after, Pasadena pays homage to the Pasadena resident Lionel Sternberger, inventor of the cheeseburger during Cheeseburger Week.
Creativity and artistic expression are celebrated during Chalk Festival, ArtNight, Jackalope Art Fairs, and the fun-house mirror version of the traditional Rose Parade - Doo Dah Parade. Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on what's happening in Pasadena and make sure you're part of the fun!
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