Historic Old Pasadena charms visitors with its beautiful turn-of-the-century architecture and pedestrian-friendly streets. Vibrant restaurants and boutique shops line the wide walkways, while the ornate Pasadena City Hall stands as a baroque masterpiece. Vintage neon signs illuminate the restored brick shopfronts, creating a lively evening atmosphere. Browse the 1920s Vroman's Bookshop or admire the Spanish Colonial facade of Pasadena Playhouse. The Gold Line metro connects easily to city centre LA, making exploration convenient. Craft cocktail lounges and farm-to-table restaurants offer diverse dining options throughout this walkable historic district.
South Lake Avenue District combines business sophistication with upscale shopping in the heart of Pasadena. Wide tree-lined pavements invite leisurely strolls past gleaming shopfronts and outdoor cafés. Anchored by Macy's, this elegant commercial hub attracts professionals and shoppers seeking premium experiences. The district offers convenient access to cultural landmarks like Pasadena Playhouse and Pasadena Museum of California Art. Gourmet restaurants featuring diverse cuisines create a refined dining scene. Though quiet after business hours, the area's polished ambiance and professional atmosphere make it an ideal base for discerning travellers.
Playhouse Village in Pasadena celebrates the performing arts with its iconic Spanish Colonial Revival theatres. The Pasadena Playhouse State Theatre anchors this cultural hub alongside ArtCenter galleries and Boston Court Performing Arts Centre. Independent bookshops and artisanal coffee shops line the tree-shaded streets. The neighborhood's artistic atmosphere continues with the Pasadena Museum of California Art and Pacific Asia Museum. Visitors can enjoy pre-theater dining at local bistros between cultural experiences. Well-connected by public transit and highly walkable, this cultural district offers a perfect blend of theatrical heritage and creative energy.
North Central Pasadena charms visitors with tree-lined streets and historic Craftsman bungalows. This quiet residential haven offers an authentic glimpse into local life away from tourist crowds. Latino influence adds cultural richness through family-run eateries serving affordable, traditional dishes. Just minutes from Rose Bowl Stadium and Pasadena City Hall, this area balances peaceful seclusion with easy access to attractions. Mature trees create shaded walking paths through streets showcasing well-preserved Victorian homes and early 1900s architecture.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Pasadena
Rose Bowl Stadium
8.6/10 (1,079 reviews)
This iconic stadium hosts the legendary Rose Bowl Game and has witnessed Olympic events and Super Bowls since 1922. Take a guided tour to explore the historic locker rooms and exclusive VIP suites.
Pasadena Convention Center
8.4/10 (385 reviews)
The Pasadena Convention Centre hosts events from major trade shows to intimate performances in its modern facilities. Explore vibrant city centre before or after your event for local dining and shopping.
California Institute of Technology
8.6/10 (320 reviews)
Enjoy the student vibe at California Institute of Technology during your visit to Pasadena. Experience the area's entertainment choices and great live music.
Norton Simon Museum
8.8/10 (289 reviews)
Immerse yourself in European masterpieces by Rembrandt and Van Gogh at this renowned art sanctuary. The tranquil sculpture garden, inspired by Monet's Giverny, offers a peaceful retreat with works by Rodin.
Pasadena Playhouse
8.4/10 (182 reviews)
California's official State Theatre since 1917, the Pasadena Playhouse stages innovative productions in a historic Spanish Colonial Revival building. Enjoy intimate performances featuring renowned actors.
Colorado Street Bridge
9.0/10 (177 reviews)
This 1913 Beaux-Arts masterpiece spans the Arroyo Seco with elegant arches and ornate lamp posts. Stroll its pedestrian walkway at sunset for breathtaking views of Pasadena's historic cityscape.
Old Pasadena Historic District
Learn about the local history of Pasadena when you spend time at Old Pasadena Historic District. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Kidspace Childrens Museum
8.0/10 (115 reviews)
This vibrant 3.5-acre museum engages young minds through interactive exhibits in science, arts, and humanities. Explore the Galvin Physics Forest and climbing structures designed for discovery through play.
What to do in Pasadena
City Sightseeing LA & Hollywood: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour - 4 Routes
"We really like staying here. Centrally located and easy to get to. Starbucks in the same parking lot to get some work done. Hotel is cozy and comfortable"
"Property was very clean, located in a nice area, room was very spacious and accomodating for us. There is a pull out in the King Bed suite, there is a semi mini refrigerator, microwave, extra sink, coffee maker, and a work desk with lighting to name a few of the awesome amenities.
It is right next to the electric train but its not very loud or anything if you are on a particular side of the hotel. It has an electric car type of sound but not a full on rail train. Haha it stops after 12...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Pasadena break. However, a range of factors like the season, length of stay and your choice of hotel will influence how much your holiday to Pasadena costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Pasadena?
You can generally find lower prices and greater availability in January, February and November. Browse our cheap Pasadena holiday packages and you could score some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Pasadena?
Pasadena holidays can be short or long, but to get a real feel for this destination, we think 2 days is a good ballpark. In this timeframe, you can visit major attractions like Kidspace Childrens Museum and Playhouse District as well as underrated gems. Don't miss out on neighbourhoods such as Downtown Glendale and Lamanda Park either. If you plan wisely, you can even take a day trip outside of Pasadena too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Pasadena?
Pasadena has all the ingredients you need for a memorable getaway — festivals, history and culture are just the start. Whether you'd like to visit sights such as Rose Bowl Stadium and Norton Simon Museum, or venture off the beaten track, there's plenty to experience on your Pasadena holiday.
How to find the best Pasadena package deals?
Landing a cheap Pasadena package deal is a breeze with Expedia. After you've entered your travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your budget, add some filters and see what's available. You can fine-tune your search by "Amenities," "Property type," "Traveller experience" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to view the most wallet-friendly Pasadena package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider travelling on a weekday, when prices are typically lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Pasadena holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more money in your pocket. Bundle your flight, car rental and hotel into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll typically get a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still enjoy the flexibility to create a tailored Pasadena holiday by choosing your favourite airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Pasadena?
Land incredible bargains by booking your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, snap up one of our last-minute deals for a spur-of-the-moment Pasadena trip.
How to plan a trip to Pasadena?
Pick the ideal time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to visit Pasadena.
Budget wisely: Besides the cost of your accommodation, you'll need to factor in other expenses. These include flights, food and transportation. Also, set aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses that could arise during your trip to Pasadena.
Decide how many days away: Start by listing all the activities and sights you want to get to in Pasadena. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, as well as any travel time.
Combine your hotel and flights: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to pick a Pasadena holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
Pasadena offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and sports events. Explore top sights through scenic walking tours, indulge in shopping at local centres, and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene during events like Art Night Pasadena. Additionally, it serves as a gateway for sightseeing in California and nearby Los Angeles, ensuring a rich and varied vacation experience for visitors.
Shopping
For shopping in Pasadena, visit Glendale Galleria, just 11.3km away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. La Casa del Mariachi, 12.9km away, is perfect for unique gifts, while El Mercadito de Los Angeles, also 12.9km away, boasts a lively atmosphere and local treasures.
Recreation
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena, where exhilarating sports events unfold. Enjoy the melodious performances at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a haven for music lovers. Finally, marvel at the stars and stunning views from Griffith Observatory, perfect for family outings and entertainment.
Adventure
Experience the San Marino Tennis Center, located 3.2km from Pasadena, where you can enjoy an energetic game amidst vibrant adventure vibes. For motor racing enthusiasts, the Irwindale Speedway, 14.5km away, offers thrilling sports excitement, while the Mount Lowe Railway trail, 8.0km from Pasadena, provides stunning outdoor scenery for hikers.
Nightlife
Experience Pasadena's vibrant nightlife with its diverse bars and live music venues. Venture to nearby Raleigh Studio Hollywood, 17.7km away, for an exciting entertainment atmosphere. Enjoy the local scene, where friendly crowds and lively events create an unforgettable evening in this charming Californian city.
Find the best attractions in and around Pasadena
Pasadena, California, is an ideal destination for families and culture enthusiasts, offering a rich selection of urban parks, art museums, and event venues. Visitors can explore attractions like the Pasadena Museum, Pasadena Aquarium, and the historic Pasadena City Hall, while enjoying performances at the Pasadena Playhouse. With a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities, Pasadena provides a delightful urban escape for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Pasadena Convention Center: Experience a hub of innovation and business at the Pasadena Convention Center. This venue hosts various events, from conferences to exhibitions, providing a vibrant atmosphere that fosters networking and collaboration.
Occidental College: Discover the charm of Occidental College, a historic institution steeped in culture. With its beautiful campus and rich history, you can enjoy leisurely strolls while admiring its stunning architecture and lush gardens.
Los Angeles City Hall: Visit the iconic Los Angeles City Hall, a symbol of the city's governance and history. Its impressive architecture and panoramic views from the observation deck offer a unique glimpse into the heart of Los Angeles.
Best time to go to Pasadena
The best time to visit Pasadena is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Pasadena
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Pasadena.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically November to January) for more affordable package holidays to Pasadena.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.