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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.

UCLA Football
How to do UCLA Bruins Football at the Rose Bowl Stadium like a local

Be a part of the UCLA Bruins Football Fandom and experience the beloved Rose Bowl Stadium just like the locals do.

hiking forest bathing couple
The Arroyo Seco

The Arroyo Seco translates to "dry gulch" in Spanish and was named by explorer Gaspar de Portolà. The land was first...
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...
Boba Trail

Rooted in local Asian American history and cultural relevance, Pasadena’s boba culture is a vibrant celebration of the...

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.

Architecture

From historic architectural marvels to heavenly craftsman homes, there are over 30 historic and landmark districts packed into 23 square miles in...

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

Shop Pasadena

Shopping in Pasadena is a popular recreational activity, set against the backdrop of ornate buildings and historic landmarks, the one-of-a-kind shops...

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Pasadena Shopping, Bookstore, Things to Do

Bookstores & Comic...

Are you tired of the same old bookstore chains? Have you read enough "New York Times Best-Sellers" to make your eyes go dry?

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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 Civic Auditorium

Music and 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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Restaurants &...

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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Pasadena Hotels

Hotels and 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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Hiking at Angeles National Forest

Outdoor & Recreation

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

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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.

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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convention center exterior

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...

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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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Things To Do

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
Things To Do

MUSE/IQUE

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

la la land colorado street bridge filming location
Things To Do

My Valley Pass Film Tour

Join "Jared on Location" as he guides you throughout Pasadena in a comfortable limo bus to some of the most iconic filming locations of your favorite movies...
Things To Do

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...
Things To Do

Neon Retro Arcade

Neon Retro Arcade is a "new" entertainment concept that celebrates the history of video games. Proudly featuring 40+ classic arcade games and pinball machines...
Restaurant

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
Things To Do

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...
Things To Do

Oak Grove Disc Golf Course

World's 1st permanent "polehole" disc golf course Directions. From the 210 Fwy, exit Berkshire Dr., turn east off ramp to a left at stop light. Go past...
Things To Do

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...
Restaurant

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...
Things To Do

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
Things To Do

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...

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