Pasadena, California might sit a few miles from downtown Los Angeles, but it is very much so its own distinct city. As such, it has a ton of great things to do and see, incredible food to eat, and many attractions and activities to try out. Join Viewcation, as we present: The Best Things to Do in Pasadena, California!
Old Town Pasadena
A trip to Pasadena isn’t complete without a stroll around Old Town. Old Town Pasadena is a charming and vibrant neighborhood, known for its beautiful historic buildings, quaint shops, and trendy restaurants. Take a slow stroll along Colorado Boulevard, the main street in Old Town, and explore the many unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Foodies will love the wide variety of dining options, ranging from classic American fare to international cuisine. Additionally, Old Town plays host to several museums and cultural institutions, including the Pasadena Museum of History and the Norton Simon Museum. (More on those in a bit!.) Movie buffs will enjoy the Old Town Pasadena Film Festival, held annually in the area’s beautiful outdoor courtyard. For those seeking a bit of relaxation, there are several spas and wellness centers located throughout Old Town. And the neighborhood hosts several annual events, such as the Pasadena Chalk Festival, where artists create stunning sidewalk murals.
The Gamble House
The Gamble House is a historic landmark, designed and built in 1908 by the architectural firm Greene and Greene. The house was constructed for David and Mary Gamble, heirs to the Procter & Gamble fortune. The house is considered one of the finest examples of the Arts and Crafts style of architecture in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
It features an intricate and detailed design, with a unique blend of Japanese and Californian architectural styles. The house’s exterior is characterized by its extensive use of wood and stone, with beautiful detailing throughout. Inside, you can explore the house’s many rooms and admire the beautiful craftsmanship of the furnishings and decor. The house is open to the public for tours, which are conducted by knowledgeable docents who offer insight into the history and design of the house. You can also explore the beautiful gardens and grounds, which feature several original features, including a beautiful koi pond. It’s a Pasadena attraction that will surely appeal to people interested in architecture or design, as it offers a unique glimpse into the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century.
Rose Bowl Flea Market
If you time your trip right, you’ll be able to check out the incredible Rose Bowl flea market. It’s a GIANT outdoor market held on the 2nd Sunday every month at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium. The market attracts vendors from all over the state who sell a wide variety of vintage and antique items, including furniture, clothing, jewelry, art, and collectibles. One of the biggest draws of the Rose Bowl flea market is the sheer size of the event. With over 2,500 vendors, the market covers a vast area of the stadium’s parking lot, offering visitors the chance to explore a seemingly endless array of unique and interesting items. The market has been a fixture of the Pasadena community for over 50 years and has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
There’s also a huge variety of food trucks, live music, and other entertainment. You’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal while browsing the wares. Or you can take a break and relax in the beer garden. Whether you’re a serious collector or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, the market is definitely worth a visit. And of course, the Rose Bowl is most famous for being a large venue that hosts games and concerts of all kinds. So if you’re not looking to hit up a flea market, check out the arena’s online schedule for tickets to a big game or show!
Museums Galore
Art lovers will have an incredible time in Pasadena, as it offers some amazing museums to check out. The Norton Simon Museum is home to an impressive collection of art from the 14th to the 20th century. The museum features works by several well-known artists such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Degas, as well as a vast collection of Asian art. Then there’s the Pasadena Museum of California Art. It’s dedicated to showcasing the work of California artists. The museum features a wide range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography. USC Pacific Asia Museum is dedicated to the art and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands. The museum’s collection includes over 15,000 objects, including ceramics, textiles, and paintings. And perhaps the most famous and worthwhile is the The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. It’s a unique destination that combines art, literature, and nature. The museum’s collection includes European art, American art, and rare books and manuscripts, as well as 120 acres of botanical gardens. The gardens are arranged by areas of the world, and are worth the price of admission alone!
Hiking!
When you are done with shopping and checking out the indoor offerings in Pasadena, you might want to get out and hike. Fortunately, Pasadena is surrounded by several stunning natural areas that offer a wide range of hiking opportunities. One of the most popular destinations is the Angeles National Forest, located just a short drive from Pasadena. The forest is home to numerous hiking trails, including the popular Mt. Wilson Trail, which leads hikers to the summit of Mt. Wilson and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another great hiking destination near Pasadena is Eaton Canyon Natural Area, a beautiful park located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. The park features several hiking trails that lead to a picturesque waterfall and offer scenic views of the mountains and the Los Angeles skyline. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the nearby San Gabriel Mountains offer a wide range of options. The Bridge to Nowhere Trail is a popular choice, leading hikers on an 11-mile round trip hike through a scenic canyon to a bridge that was never completed. Other notable hikes in the area include the Strawberry Peak Trail, the Mt. Baldy Trail, and the Gabrielino Trail.
Pasadena Civic Center District
The Pasadena Civic Center District is a markedly vibrant, colorful, and bustling area in the heart of downtown Pasadena. The district is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, the Pasadena Convention Center, and City Hall. The Pasadena Civic Auditorium is a historic venue that has hosted a wide range of events, including the Academy Awards ceremony, the Emmy Awards, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards. The auditorium’s stunning Art Deco architecture and world-class acoustics make it a popular destination for concerts, theatrical performances, and other cultural events. The Pasadena Convention Center is a state-of-the-art facility that features over 130,000 square feet of event space. The center is a popular venue for trade shows, conventions, and other large-scale events, and offers a rich variety of amenities and services to help ensure a successful and memorable event. City Hall is another notable landmark in the Pasadena Civic Center District. The building’s stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and beautiful landscaping make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. You’ll be able to explore the building’s many ornate rooms and hallways, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area from the observation deck. The district is also home to several restaurants, shops, and other attractions.
Pasadena Playhouse
The Pasadena Playhouse is a historic performing arts venue, founded in 1917. It has a long and storied history, having hosted countless performances by some of the world’s most celebrated actors and playwrights. The Pasadena Playhouse has been a cornerstone of the performing arts community in the area, and some of the notable productions that have been performed at the Playhouse include Tennessee Williams’ “The Glass Menagerie,” Eugene O’Neill’s “Long Day’s Journey into Night,” and Arthur Miller’s “Death of a Salesman.” The Playhouse is also known for its commitment to fostering new talent and supporting emerging artists. They offer a wide range of educational and community outreach programs, including workshops, master classes, and apprenticeships. So if you’re itching to watch some serious talent perform a live musical or play, be sure to check out their schedule in advance!
The Burlington Arcade
When you’re ready for a mix of history and local shopping, head to The Burlington Arcade. It’s a charming shopping destination located in the heart of Pasadena. Built in 1923, the Arcade and is known for its beautiful architecture, featuring ornate details such as decorative tilework, and wrought-iron gates. Inside you’ll a variety of shops and boutiques, offering a range of products from clothing and accessories to home decor and artisanal goods.
The Burlington Arcade is also a popular destination for foodies, with several restaurants and cafes located within its walls. Visitors can enjoy a variety of culinary delights, from freshly baked pastries and gourmet coffee to international cuisine and artisanal cocktails.
One of the coolest features of the Burlington Arcade is its stunning glass ceiling, which floods the arcade with natural light and creates a bright and airy atmosphere. The arcade also features several beautiful fountains and a tranquil courtyard, providing a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city. It’s a great place when you want to stroll around for some retail therapy, and you’ll appreciate the gorgeous aesthetics of this spot as you do!
Pasadena is, in many ways, linked with Los Angeles. And it does indeed share a lot of commonalities with the city of angels. But it also retains its own distinct flavor, and is well worth a visit. Now it’s time to hear from you! Have you ever been to Pasadena? Did we miss any of your favorite spots? And if not, do you think you’ll ever get there? Let us know in the comments section below!