Rose Bowl Stadium
Home to the annual Rose Bowl Game, UCLA Bruins football, and world-class concerts, the Rose Bowl Stadium is an iconic sports venue in 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 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 the Arroyo Seco, Pasadena promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit today and uncover the many things to do in Pasadena, California!
Why Pasadena is Different
Southern California Gem
Just 10 miles from downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena offers a distinctly different Southern California experience. Rich in history, culture, and architectural beauty, Pasadena combines the energy of a world-class destination with the warmth and walkability of a welcoming neighborhood. Tree-lined streets, historic districts, and a vibrant downtown invite visitors to slow down and explore.
Pasadena has long been a place where creativity, innovation, and culture intersect. It's home to iconic institutions including The Huntington, the Norton Simon Museum, The Gamble House, and the legendary Pasadena Playhouse, while nearby Caltech and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory continue to shape discoveries that reach far beyond the city.
The city is perhaps best known around the world as the home of the Rose Parade® and the Rose Bowl Game®, traditions that have welcomed millions of visitors and become symbols of Southern California.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a day exploring Southern California, Pasadena offers an authentic experience that feels both timeless and continually evolving. It's a place where historic charm meets modern creativity, where world-renowned attractions exist alongside neighborhood cafés and locally owned shops, and where every visit reveals something new to discover.
Top Experiences You Can't Miss
Top Pasadena Experiences
Whether it's your first visit or your fifteenth, these experiences define Pasadena.
- Wander the charming streets of Old Pasadena and discover locally owned boutiques, cafés, and historic architecture.
- Explore world-renowned museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions.
- Tour historic homes that helped shape the American Arts & Crafts movement.
- Explore iconic landmarks that have been featured in movies and television shows.
- Experience live performances at the Pasadena Playhouse and other performing arts venues.
- Visit the legendary Rose Bowl Stadium, home to concerts, sporting events, and one of college football's most iconic traditions.
- Experience the Rose Parade, Chalk Festival, and other festivals, and celebrations throughout the year.
Explore by Interest
Arts & Culture
For more than a century, Pasadena has been a cultural leader in Southern California. Discover internationally recognized museums, historic homes, public art, and live performances that celebrate the city's rich artistic heritage.
Featured Guides
Food & Drink Experiences
Food is one of Pasadena's defining experiences. Discover chef-driven restaurants, historic dining destinations, bustling cafés, wine bars, breweries, and local favorites that have helped shape Southern California's culinary scene.
Featured Guides
- New & Trending Restaurants
- Brunch Guide
- Best Wine Bars
- Best Beer Bars
- Home of the Cheeseburger
- Sweet Tooth Guide
- Outdoor Dining
- Family-Owned Restaurants
Outdoor Adventures
With sunny weather year-round, Pasadena makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Wander botanical gardens, bike scenic routes, hike nearby mountain trails, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of the city's beautiful neighborhoods.
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Shopping
From charming boutiques and independent bookstores to national retailers and specialty shops, Pasadena offers shopping experiences that are as unique as the city itself.
Featured Guides
Family Fun
Families will find plenty to explore, from interactive museums and gardens to seasonal festivals and outdoor adventures. Pasadena offers activities for every age and every season.
Featured Guide
Seasonal Things To Do
Things to Do in Pasadena by Season
| Season | Why Visit | Things To Do in Pasadena |
WINTER | Iconic events and holiday celebrations | • Experience the world-famousRose Parade® presented by Honda • Watch the Rose Bowl Game® • Tour Rose Parade float decorating (late December) • Visit holiday light displays and festive shopping districts • Warm up at Pasadena's cafés and bakeries • Explore museums and cultural attractions on cooler days |
| SPRING (March-May) | Blooming gardens, comfortable weather, outdoor festivals | • Explore The Huntington's library, art museum, and botanical gardens during peak bloom • Tour the historic homes and architecture of Bungalow Heaven • Hike Annandale Canyon and enjoy spring wildflowers • Shop and dine on outdoor patios in Old Pasadena • Attend spring performances at Pasadena Playhouse • Browse the monthly Rose Bowl Flea Market |
| SUMMER (June-August) | Long days, outdoor dining, family adventures | • Drive Historic Route 66 along Colorado Boulevard • Enjoy concerts and events at the Rose Bowl Stadium • Visit Kidspace Children's Museum • Explore Norton Simon Museum during the afternoon heat • Sip craft coffee and thift local boutiques • Experience Pasadena's rooftop bars and al fresco dining |
| FALL (September-November) | Football season, festivals, mild weather | • Attend a UCLA football game • Shop for vintage treasures at the Rose Bowl Flea Market • Visit museums during Pasadena ArtNight • Explore Craftoberfest, local breweries and seasonal restaurant menus • Experience the weird, wild, and wacky at the Doo Dah Parade • Walk through Old Pasadena as the leaves begin to change |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pasadena famous for?
Pasadena is internationally known for the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game, but it's also celebrated for its historic architecture, cultural institutions, gardens, world-class museums, thriving culinary scene, and walkable neighborhoods.
Is Pasadena worth visiting?
Absolutely. Whether you're interested in history, food, shopping, architecture, outdoor recreation, or the arts, Pasadena offers one of Southern California's most diverse visitor experiences.
Is Pasadena walkable?
Yes. Old Pasadena, Playhouse Village, South Lake Avenue, and the Civic Center are all highly walkable and connected by Metro, bike routes, and convenient parking.
How many days should I spend in Pasadena?
A full weekend allows enough time to experience the city's major attractions, dining, shopping, and cultural institutions. Many visitors also choose Pasadena as a home base for exploring greater Los Angeles.
What are the best free things to do?
Walk through historic neighborhoods, admire Pasadena's architecture, explore public art, visit local parks and gardens, browse local shops, and stroll across the Colorado Street Bridge for spectacular views.
Only in Pasadena
Some experiences simply can't be found anywhere else. These iconic attractions have helped make Pasadena one of California's most recognizable and beloved destinations.
Start Exploring
From iconic landmarks and celebrated museums to hidden neighborhood gems and unforgettable dining experiences, Pasadena offers something for every traveler. Whether you're here for a few hours or a long weekend, you'll discover a city where history, culture, innovation, and hospitality come together in one remarkable destination.
Browse the directory below to discover attractions, museums, tours, outdoor adventures, shopping, entertainment, and more throughout Pasadena.
