Pasadena · Los Angeles County

Things to Do in Pasadena, CA

Pasadena is one of the most beautiful cities in LA County — home to the Rose Bowl, world-class museums, Old Town shopping, and some of the best hiking trails on the east side of the Valley.

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Culture & Museums

Museums, Art & Historic Architecture

The Norton Simon Museum (411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105) holds one of the most remarkable private art collections in the world — spanning European old masters, Impressionists, modern art, and an extraordinary Southeast Asian sculpture collection. The garden alone is worth the visit.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108) (bordering Pasadena) is a 130-acre estate with rare books, European and American art, and spectacular themed gardens including a Chinese garden, Japanese garden, and desert garden. It's one of the finest cultural institutions in California.

Pasadena City Hall (100 N Garfield Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101) is a stunning 1927 Mediterranean Revival building with a courtyard garden and ornate architecture. It's free to walk through and photograph, and it's been featured in countless films and TV shows.

Shopping & Outdoors

Old Town, Rose Bowl & Hiking

Old Town Pasadena on Colorado Boulevard is one of the best shopping and dining districts in the San Gabriel Valley. Brick buildings, independent shops, national retailers, and dozens of restaurants line the walkable strip. It comes alive at night and on weekends.

The Rose Bowl (1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103) is iconic — home to the Rose Bowl Game, the Rose Bowl Flea Market (second Sunday of every month, one of the largest in the country), and UCLA football. The surrounding Brookside Park has a golf course, trails, and picnic areas along the Arroyo Seco.

Eaton Canyon (1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena, CA 91107) is Pasadena's most popular hike — a 3.5-mile round trip to a 40-foot waterfall. It's easy enough for families but rewarding enough for regular hikers. Go early on weekends to avoid crowds.

Highlights

Best Things to Do in Pasadena

Museums
🎨 Norton Simon Museum
411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105. World-class art from Rembrandt to Picasso, plus a stunning sculpture garden.
Landmarks
🏟️ Rose Bowl & Flea Market
1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103. Iconic stadium, UCLA football, and the massive Rose Bowl Flea Market every 2nd Sunday.
Culture
📚 Huntington Library
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108. 130 acres of rare books, art, and botanical gardens. The Chinese and Japanese gardens are breathtaking.
Shopping
🛍️ Old Town Pasadena
Colorado Boulevard's walkable strip of shops, restaurants, and nightlife in historic brick buildings.
Outdoors
🏔️ Eaton Canyon
1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena, CA 91107. 3.5-mile hike to a 40-foot waterfall. Great for families.
Events
🌹 Rose Parade
New Year's Day tradition since 1890. Flower-covered floats, marching bands, and equestrian units on Colorado Blvd.
FAQ

Pasadena — Questions Answered

What are the best things to do in Pasadena?
Pasadena highlights include Old Town Pasadena shopping and dining, the Norton Simon Museum, the Huntington Library and Gardens, the Rose Bowl and its monthly flea market, hiking at Eaton Canyon, and the annual Rose Parade on New Year's Day.
Is Pasadena worth visiting?
Absolutely. Pasadena is one of the most culturally rich cities in LA County with world-class museums, beautiful architecture, excellent dining, hiking trails, and iconic events. It's a must-visit for anyone in the LA area.
When is the Rose Bowl Flea Market?
The Rose Bowl Flea Market takes place on the second Sunday of every month. It's one of the largest flea markets in the country, with hundreds of vendors selling vintage items, antiques, and artisan goods. Early admission starts at 5 AM.
What hikes are near Pasadena?
Eaton Canyon is the most popular — a 3.5-mile round trip to a waterfall. The Arroyo Seco trails near the Rose Bowl are great for casual walks, and the San Gabriel Mountains offer more challenging options nearby.
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