Experience 3 Fun-Filled Days in Pasadena, USA
Discover the charm of Pasadena: a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the historic Hotel Constance, where Charlie Chaplin once stayed
- Stroll through the streets of Old Town Pasadena, admiring the architecture and browsing local boutiques
- Visit the Pasadena Museum of California Art, featuring works by famous California artists such as David Hockney
- Grab lunch at The Cheese Store of Pasadena, serving up delicious sandwiches and artisanal cheeses
- Take a tour of the Gamble House, a stunning example of the Arts and Crafts architectural style
- End the day with a cocktail at The Tap Room, a cozy spot inside the Langham Huntington hotel
- Fuel up with brunch at Euro Pane Bakery, famous for their freshly baked croissants and quiches
- Visit the Norton Simon Museum, home to an impressive collection of European and Asian art
- Head to nearby Descanso Gardens for a leisurely nature walk and botanical garden exploration
- Lunch at The Raymond, a charming restaurant set in a historic bungalow with farm-to-table cuisine
- Catch an evening show at the iconic Pasadena Playhouse, featuring productions from world-renowned playwrights
- Cap off the night with drinks and live music at red-white+bluezz, a jazz bar and lounge in Old Town Pasadena
- Begin the day with breakfast at Urth Caffé, known for their fresh organic coffee and decadent pastries
- Explore the world of science fiction at the Pasadena Museum of History's exhibit on Star Trek memorabilia
- Tour the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where NASA scientists work to explore the final frontier
- Lunch at the Pie Hole, serving up savory and sweet pies made from scratch
- Visit the Rose Bowl Stadium, home to the world-famous Rose Bowl game and concerts by top musicians
- End the day with dessert at Milkcow Cafe, a Korean soft serve chain known for their creative flavors and toppings
- Enjoy breakfast at Lincoln, a hip and trendy cafe known for their Instagram-worthy dishes
- Visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, featuring a mix of fine art and stunning gardens
- Lunch at The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse, a high-end restaurant showcasing premium cuts of meat and fresh seafood
- Take a walking tour of the historic architecture in Pasadena, including the iconic Colorado Street Bridge
- Catch a movie at the Laemmle Playhouse 7, an independent cinema showcasing the best in arthouse and indie films
- Bid farewell to Pasadena with a nightcap at The Blind Donkey, a speakeasy-style bar with craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
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.
