An Adventure Packed Long Weekend in Pasadena

Experience love in full bloom in Pasadena, the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway.

03 May 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Pasadena's Charm and Grace

  • 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.
Day 2

Nature and Adventure

  • 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

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Pasadena

Looking for a city that's a little bit quirky and a whole lot of charming? Look no further than Pasadena – where the roses are plentiful, the architecture is impressive, and the locals are about as laid-back as they come.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Experience 3 Fun-Filled Days in Pasadena, USA

As a tourist visiting Pasadena, you can expect to explore several iconic attractions such as the Rose Bowl Stadium, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Huntington Library. You can also enjoy the city's vibrant food scene by visiting trendy restaurants and cafes like Maison Akira, Urth Caffé, and The Mixx Pasadena. Lastly, get to know the local culture by attending fun events such as the Pasadena Chalk Festival, the Pasadena Daydream Festival, and the Pasadena Heritage Craftsman Weekend.

5 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in Pasadena!

Pasadena is the perfect destination for budget travelers with its abundance of free outdoor attractions such as the Rose Bowl Stadium and Eaton Canyon Natural Area. Cheap eats can be found at local favorites like Cuban bakery Porto's and Lucky Boy Drive-In. Accommodation options include affordable motels and Airbnb rentals.

Escape to Pasadena: Your 5-Day SoCal Adventure

Pasadena is an interesting city to visit as a tourist with a variety of activities to choose from. Known for hosting the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl Game, visitors can explore the city's rich history at the Pasadena History Museum or visit the Norton Simon Museum to view an impressive collection of art. Additionally, if you're looking for outdoor activities the city boasts hiking trails at the Eaton Canyon Natural Area and a beautiful botanical garden at The Huntington Library.

4 Days of Pasadena Wonderland: Family Fun on a Budget!

A family friendly trip to Pasadena, United States offers a perfect blend of cultural treasures, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. Explore the rich cultural scene by visiting renowned museums like The Norton Simon Museum or The Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens. Enjoy outdoor adventures at the beautiful Eaton Canyon Nature Center or Rose Bowl Stadium, where you can bike, hike, picnic, or catch a game, making Pasadena an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.