National Plan for Vacation Day: Heading out to Pasadena, CA

Sunscreen & Shades

As the saying goes, “sun’s out, buns out!” Pasadena is renowned for beautiful sunshine gleaming over blossoming gardens and marvelous historic architecture. Just be sure to protect those buns with sun care, a hat and some snazzy sunglasses. Did you see the Just Like Heaven fest and Cruel World lineup announcements? Keep an eye out for other Goldenvoice music festivals that will take place at the Rose Bowl Stadium this summer.

Shoes for Walking

When hanging out in Pasadena, locals revel in the joy of the city’s walkability. Those who meander through Old Pasadena will find themselves strolling into the Civic Center district, the Playhouse Village, the South Lake Avenue District and through neighborhoods with architectural gems, so walking shoes are a must. Get ready for an architectural walking tour, a melting pot food tour, or a film tour.

Sandals & Swimwear

Flip flops, Crocs, Birkenstocks, and other variations of comfy sandals are a popular choice for locals. The streets are clean, and the toes are free, so pack a pair of these to join in on the fun and they’ll come in handy at the hotel pool. Whether you’re staying at the Pasadena Hotel & Pool, the Westin Pasadena, the Langham Huntington, the Hilton Pasadena, the Hyatt Place Pasadena, the Courtyard by Marriott Pasadena, the Sheraton Pasadena Hotel, etc., the pool is the perfect place to lounge, relax and soak in the sun.

A Light Jacket

It’s a known fact that Pasadena is sunnier than much of Los Angeles, but it might get a little chilly at night (at least for SoCal residents). There are quite a few annual events that run from day to night, including sporting events at the Rose Bowl Stadium. The nightlife in Pasadena is robust with a wide selection of sports bars, cocktail crafters, and wine bars. So, dress for the sun and add on a light jacket if you really need it.

Casual Attire

Pasadena is historically known as a resort town, so folks here adorn a mixture of city casual and casual resort wear. Either way, it’s casual, so packing is stress free. Just be sure to bring some nice jeans if you’re heading to the museums and gardens, a show at the Pasadena Playhouse, or splurging at a Michelin honored restaurant.

Foldable Duffle Bag

Pasadena is a shopping destination all in itself, from boutique shops to national brands to antique finds and thrifted treasures, you’ll thank yourself for stashing an extra duffle bag in your luggage. Be sure to check out the Rose Bowl Flea Market when you’re in town for a second Sunday of the month.

And if nothing goes according to plan on packing day, don’t fret. Head to the South Lake Avenue District to get salon ready at Jellylab, Sugared + Bronzed, NailBox, and drybar before visiting Old Pasadena to shop for clothing essentials at allbirds, Patagonia, Madewell, and 2nd Street. For boutique finds, check out April Blooms, Homage, and Finn + Willow.

Bring Your Dogs

You don’t need to leave your four-legged family members at home when traveling, relaxing and enjoying a getaway to Pasadena. With pet-friendly parks, dog runs, and pet-friendly shopping centers and dining hotspots abound, get your planning started with this pet-friendly Pasadena getaway guide.

Bring Your Kids!

Pasadena is home to many outdoor parks and playgrounds dedicated to the community of families that live here. There’s also an abundance of kid-friendly and mom-approved attractions that offer enriching experiences, such as Kidspace Children’s Museum, The Huntington’s Children’s Garden, and more to explore.

Remember to Draft Your Out-Of-Office Response

Putting your OOO autoresponder off to the last-minute leaves little room for creativity. Take this National Plan for Vacation Day opportunity to serve up something clever in your outbox when you’re savoring the distinguished global flavors that Pasadena chefs are dishing out. Here’s an example to get you started: