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4 Days of Adventure: Pasadena on a Budget

Explore Pasadena's beauty without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Pasadena, United States on a limited budget can be both enjoyable and affordable. Visit the Norton Simon Museum, the Pasadena Museum of California Art, and the lovely Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens for free or inexpensive entrance fees. Relax in the beautiful parks and gardens throughout the city, and take advantage of affordable food options such as In-N-Out Burger or The Hat.

Travel plan

• Check into the cozy and affordable Vagabond Inn Pasadena, centrally located with free breakfast.
• Explore the Norton Simon Museum, an impressive collection of art from the likes of Van Gogh, Degas, and Picasso.
• Take a stroll through Old Pasadena, a charming district filled with historic buildings and unique shops.
• Visit the Gamble House, a stunning example of Craftsman architecture and a true representation of Pasadena's history.
• End the day with dinner at The Raymond, a farm-to-table restaurant housed in a restored bungalow.

• Start the day with a hike in the picturesque Eaton Canyon Park, home to a 40-foot waterfall and stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
• Head to the Paseo Colorado, an outdoor shopping center with over 50 stores and an impressive selection of dining options.
• Take a tour of the Rose Bowl Stadium, one of the most iconic sports venues in the country.
• Stop by Vroman's Bookstore, a Pasadena institution since 1894 and one of the largest independent bookstores in the country.
• Indulge in some delicious Mexican food at La Estrella, a local favorite known for their tasty tacos and burritos.

• Start the day at the Kidspace Children's Museum, a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike.
• Visit the California Institute of Technology, one of the country's most prestigious universities and a hub for scientific research.
• Grab lunch at Pie 'n Burger, a Pasadena tradition serving up classic American fare since 1963.
• Explore the Pasadena Farmers Market, held every Saturday and offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music.
• End the day with drinks at 1886, a speakeasy-style bar located inside the historic Raymond Hotel.

• Start the day by immersing yourself in the world of artist and iconoclast, Norton Allen, with a visit to the Norton Museum of Art.
• Head southeast to the scenic San Gabriel Mountains, and hike along the winding trails of Angeles National Forest.
• Treat yourself to a gourmet meal at The Derby, a historic restaurant popular with locals and famous visitors alike.
• Visit the Pasadena Playhouse, where you can catch a live theater performance, from intimate solo shows to blockbuster musicals.
• Finish your visit to Pasadena with a cold beer and hot wings at Lucky Baldwins Pub, a local hangout famous for their Belgian-style brews and hearty pub grub.