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Pasadena, California

Things to Do

Discover the vibrant charm of Pasadena, CA, a city brimming with exciting attractions, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Nestled at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Pasadena offers a diverse array of activities for every type of traveler. From exploring the iconic Huntington Library and Gardens to enjoying a leisurely stroll through the historic Old Pasadena district, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a foodie looking to indulge in top-notch cuisine, an art enthusiast eager to visit the Norton Simon Museum, or an outdoor lover ready to hike Eaton Canyon, Pasadena promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit today and uncover the many things to do in Pasadena, California!

Norton Simon Museum

Museums

Pasadena is known for its abundance of renowned cultural institutions, many within walking distance of one another.

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Pasadena Shopping Destinations, Vintage Finds, Antique, One-of-a-kind, Southern California, Things to Do

Shopping

Shopping in Pasadena is a popular recreational activity, count it in as sightseeing, catching up with friends, or treasure hunting.

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Dining

Trying new cuisines is one of the most thrilling experiences for taste buds and cultural immersion. Pasadena is home to over 650 restaurants, where...

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Hiking at Angeles National Forest

Outdoors

With temperate weather, ample wildlife, and natural areas, Pasadena is home to the ancestral lands of the Hahamongna band of Tongva people. They...

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Architecture

There are over 30 historic and landmark districts packed into 23 square miles in Pasadena.

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Pasadena Civic Auditorium

Music & Theater

Do you accidentally give driving directions using stage left and stage right? Is your go-to dance move the jazz square?

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Pasadena Hotels

Hotels & Lodging

Choosing Pasadena as your home base for any trip to the Los Angeles area is a smart strategy. From here, you’ll have fast, easy access to downtown...

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Family-Friendly...

Traveling with children can be stressful and trying to satisfy every family members' interest when on vacation is a juggling act.

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In Pasadena, California's history and heritage is met with palm-lined streets, ornate architecture, national landmarks, popular art & cultural institutions, shopping boutiques, and ethnically diverse food. Explore the “Crown of the Valley” solo or as a group to discover what makes the city one of Los Angeles’ unique hidden gems.

District Guide
Old Pasadena Street

Old Pasadena

With 22 blocks designated as a National Register Historic District, Old Pasadena abounds with impeccably restored late 19th and early 20th-century...

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Civic Center

The Civic Center District is a vibrant zone that sits between Old Pasadena and The Playhouse Village. The beautiful Beaux-Arts and Mediterranean...

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Pasadena Arts

Playhouse Village

The artsy Playhouse Village is home to the renowned Pasadena Playhouse along with museums, galleries, eateries, and a smattering of independent shops.

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South Lake Avenue

South Lake Avenue

South Lake is a 12-block stretch of boutiques, restaurants, and purveyors of beauty, health, and wellness. Major national chain stores like Macy’s...

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Pasadena is home to over 30 nationally registered historic districts, including the thriving downtown neighborhoods that offer shops, bars and restaurants in well-preserved turn-of-the-century buildings.

Friends pose for a picture under colorful rainbow banners in Pasadena.
How to Experience Pasadena on a Budget

You don't have to break the bank to have an incredible time in Pasadena. A little strategy and know-how will help you...
The Brunch Guide to Pasadena: 5 Ways to Brunch

Brunch is back and leisurely weekend feasts have officially been revived across Pasadena, where even the brunch is a...
Celebrating 100 Years Since The Cheeseburger Was Invented in Pasadena

As the foodlore goes, the cheeseburger made its debut 100 years ago at The Rite Spot in western Pasadena. In January...

Jumak Restaurant in Pasadena, CA.
New Restaurants

Restaurant openings aren’t seeing any sort of slowdown with exciting new spots across Pasadena. Here are the hottest...
Top 5 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Pasadena

There’s so much to see and do with children in Pasadena, from world-class museums and botanical gardens to live...

The Pasadena skyline at dusk with bridges, homes, and mountains in the distance
Pasadena Filming Locations

Driving around Pasadena, with its idyllic tree-lined streets and clusters of historic craftsman homes, it’s hard not to...

High Low Vintage
Top 12 Shops in Pasadena's Vintage Vault

With everything from Victorian to Art Deco and Hollywood Regency to Palm Springs modern, the Pasadena Vintage Vault is...
Vegan & Vegetarian

If you're vegan, semi-vegetarian, flexitarian, or undecided, the plant-based foodways in Southern California shines in...

Bone Kettle Berry Mango Mimosas
Cocktail Guide

Creative cocktails are on the menu at so many of Pasadena's watering holes and eateries.

Entertainment

The Boulevard

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The Boulevard is a gay bar that is sure to fill your night with lively entertainment and a welcoming safe space for LGBTQIA members. The bar offers plenty of...

Recreation

Brookside Golf Club

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Brookside Golf Course is located in Pasadena, California—it is adjacent to the Rose Bowl Stadium in the Arroyo Seco natural area. Brookside features two...

Outdoors

Brookside Park

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Park Near the Rose Bowl Pasadena's largest fully maintained park facility (61.1 acres) is located just south of Rose Bowl Stadium. Lots of parking is available...

Landmarks

Bungalow Heaven

Bungalow Heaven

Bungalow Heaven is a square mile of 20th century homes. As Pasadena's first Landmark District, this neighborhood is a model for historic preservation and...

Entertainment

The Bunker Experience

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The Bunker Experience is a thrilling escape room activity like no other. Featuring live-action role players within the game, your team will race against the...

Event Venue

Castle Green

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Historic Hotel. Built in 1898, the Castle Green was built by Colonel Green. It was designed by Frederick I. Roehrig with influences of Moorish, Spanish and...

Landmarks

Central Park

Central Park

"Pasadena Central Park was established in 1902 and is one of Pasadena's two earliest parks. Located in the heart of the city, the park occupies several blocks...

Landmarks

Colorado Street Bridge

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Picturesque Views. The Colorado Street Bridge is a historic Beaux Arts bridge that spreads over Pasadena. The bridge was built across the Arroyo Seco...

Event Venue

Descanso Gardens

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Descanso Gardens features nine botanical collections, a (ride-able) miniature railroad, house museum, modern art gallery, cafe and gift shop. The urban retreat...

Event Venue

Desiderio Park

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Desiderio Neighborhood Park is a little bit of a hidden gem. For architecture enthusiasts, this family friendly park sits right below the historic Colorado...

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