An Adventure Packed Long Weekend in Pasadena
Experience love in full bloom in Pasadena, the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway.
03 May 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Enjoy a romantic getaway to Pasadena, located in Southern California, boasting warm and sunny weather year-round. Visit the romantic strolling gardens at the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, watch the sunrise and sunset on the Huntington Beach Pier, then end each night on a high note with a candlelit dinner at one of Pasadena's fine dining establishments. With luxury hotels to choose from, including The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, this trip is the perfect escape for couples.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Hotel: The Langham Huntington, Pasadena a luxurious and historic hotel with a stunning pool and grounds.
- Breakfast at Urth Caffé, a rustic-chic place to start your day with delicious coffee and healthy food.
- Visit the Norton Simon Museum, with world-class art collections and a lovely garden to stroll through.
- Take a walk in the historic Old Town Pasadena, with its charming architecture and unique boutiques.
- Grab lunch at Union, a hip restaurant with farm-to-table cuisine and an extensive wine selection.
- Spend the afternoon at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, a stunning destination with an impressive art collection, rare books, and 120 acres of magnificent gardens.
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at The Raymond 1886, a restored bungalow with a cozy atmosphere, creative cocktails, and a seasonal menu.
- Start your day with breakfast at Home Brewed Bar, a local coffee shop with a fun and colorful atmosphere.
- Hike to the top of Echo Mountain, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Pasadena and the surrounding mountains.
- Relax at the Descanso Gardens, a picturesque botanical garden with a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a stunning camellia collection.
- For lunch, try The Stand, a casual joint with delicious burgers, fries, and shakes.
- Discover the Gamble House, an outstanding example of American Arts and Crafts architecture, with beautiful woodwork and intricate details.
- End your trip with a sunset picnic at the Colorado Street Bridge, a historic bridge with stunning views of the city and the San Gabriel Mountains.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Pasadena by plane is to fly into the Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California and then take a taxi or rental car to Pasadena.
Car
Driving to Pasadena is easy as it is located near several major highways including the 210, 110, and 134. However, there may be heavy traffic during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no train station in Pasadena. The nearest station is in downtown Los Angeles, and then taking a taxi or rental car to Pasadena.
Boat
There are no direct boat routes to Pasadena as it is an inland city. The nearest waterway is the Pacific Ocean about 30 miles away in Long Beach.
Bus
Taking the Greyhound bus is an affordable option to get to Pasadena. The nearest Greyhound station is located in downtown Los Angeles and then taking a taxi or rental car to Pasadena.