Pasadena, California

Things to Do

Whether you're a foodie, culture vulture, nature lover, music chaser, movie fanatic, fine art aficionado, or history buff, there's more than enough in Pasadena to keep you busy. Here are the best things to do, from shopping boutiques and breathtaking museums to trendy restaurant bars and lush outdoor adventure.

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.

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.

Archery course for the Pasadena Roving Archers in Pasadena, CA.
Outdoors

Lower Arroyo Park Area

Enjoy mild hiking trails, a bridle path, an archery range, a casting pond, and a natural space that feels a world away from the nearby urban centers. The...

Luggage Room Pizzeria
Outdoor Dining

Luggage Room

Pizzeria in Old Pasadena. Luggage Room is a pizzeria in Old Pasadena located at Del Mar Station, featuring indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant is...

Outdoors

MACH 1 Equine Assisted Therapy

Founded by longtime Pasadena Resident Joy Rittenhouse, MACH 1 (“Move A Child Higher”) began operations in 1996. Joy had polio as a child and found healing...

Outdoor Dining

Maestro Restaurant

Mexican Restaurant and Mezcaleria. Maestro is an upscale Mexican restaurant and Mezcaleria located in historic Old Pasadena. Maestro specializes in...

Maxwell house
Historic Building

Maxwell House

The Maxwell House is the perfect setting for a wedding, small meeting/conference, special event or filming. Located at 55 South Grand Avenue in the Arroyo...

Shopping

Monstera Duet

Located in the Burlington Arcade, the new mom and pop plant shop is bringing a wide variety of indoor plants and collectable plant species to the sun soaked...

Musique
Performing Arts

MUSE/IQUE

MUSE/IQUE is a member-supported, nonprofit performing arts organization making radically engaging live music experiences accessible for all. Built on a...

Shopping

My Zero Waste Store

My Zero Waste Store (previously Ban SUP Refill) is on a mission to reduce greenhouse gasses and single-use plastic consumption. Their shop has a variety of...

Outdoor Dining

Nine and Nine Thai Kitchen

Nine and Nine Thai Kitchen in Pasadena serves a variety of Thai cuisine. Order Thai salad, fried rice, curry, noodles and more. Some standout specialties...

norton simon art museum
Art Museums

Norton Simon Museum

Renowned Art Collection. Known around the world as one of the most remarkable private art collections ever assembled, industrialist Norton Simon spent over...