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.

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...

Outdoors

Mount Wilson Mountain Biking Adventure

Build your adventure on your own terms. Mount Wilson Mountain Bike Adventure offers professionally designed biking tours, skills clinics and youth camps which...

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 30...

Sports

Oak Grove Disc Golf Course

World's 1st permanent "polehole" disc golf course Multi-terrained, oak lined course established in 1975 by Disc Golf Association founder Ed Headrick. He...

Shopping

Octavia's Bookshelf

Octavia's Bookshelf is an independent bookstore by Nikki High that opened in Pasadena in February 2023, in honor of Pasadena native, sci-fi author, and...

Bar

Oji Sushi & Sake Bar

OJI Sushi features an array of fish from superior markets such as the famous Tsukiji Market in Japan. With an extensive menu that showcases both modern and...

Movie Theaters

One Colorado

Historic Courtyard Shopping, Dining and Entertainment Destination. Nestled in the heart of Old Pasadena and comprising a full city block, One Colorado is...

Parsons nose theater
Performing Arts

Parson’s Nose Theater

Classic Theater. Parson's Nose Theater is a classical comedic theater company that established a new permanent home in Pasadena, California. Parson's Nose is...