Best Places To Visit In Pasadena, California

Below is our list of best places to visit & things to do in Pasadena California

Arlington Garden

One of the most peaceful spots in the city is Arlington Garden.

Arlington Garden has grown on three acres of property owned by Caltrans.

There are plenty of places to sit back, relax, and view the three-acre open-air urban garden. It’s one of Pasadena’s best free activities.

Local opposition forced the 710 Freeway’s abandonment of the site where the garden now stands.

A municipal council member ultimately persuaded local neighbors to help with the planting and upkeep of the public garden.

Beginning in 2002 and ending in 2005, the project produced a water-efficient garden ideal for the state’s Mediterranean climate.

Pets and humans enjoy this Pasadena garden, a safe sanctuary for the city’s native fauna.

Throughout the year, a wide variety of birds, bees, and butterflies may be observed in abundance.

Since its partners and supporters have donated so generously, it has been made available to the general public.

Address: 275 Arlington Dr, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States

Bungalow Heaven

While in Pasadena, be sure to see the city’s renowned Bungalow district!

The Arts & Crafts movement influenced many of the bungalows in the region, making it historically significant.

More than 800 Craftsman-style bungalows dating from the early 1900s to the early 1930s can be found in the city’s historic district.

Bungalow Heaven was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008;

The Bungalow Heaven Neighborhood Association organizes various activities and events, including a summer music series, an annual home tour, and the collection of funds for the neighborhood’s home repair grant program.

On the front lawns of the well-kept homes in this lush neighborhood, you’ll hear cheerful banter amongst residents.

As a signature style, hanging eaves, low-pitched rooflines, masonry and wood craftsmanship, porches, and long-lasting shelter are all part of the package: For this reason, bungalows are popular.

Due to its long and colorful history, Bungalow Heaven has been featured in several books, articles, and publications.

If you’re in the area while visiting Pasadena, don’t miss the legendary Bungalow Paradise.

Address: Pasadena, CA 91104 USA

Colorado Street Bridge

Many people leaped to their deaths from this bridge in the twentieth century. It was dubbed the “Suicide Bridge” by the media.

The bridge was built by Waddell & Harrington, a Missouri-based engineering firm, in 1912.

When it was finished in 1913, the Colorado Street Bridge was considered the world’s highest concrete bridge, with its stunning arches towering 150 feet over the Arroyo Seco.

A staggering total of over a hundred people have lost their lives in the Arroyo.

As a preventative measure, an 8-foot-tall wall was erected. Despite this, some people continue to take their own lives by jumping off the bridge.

Pasadena-to-Los-Angeles commuters may now make use of the Arroyo Seco bridge.

Thanks to the little pedestrian paths on both sides, you may stroll across the bridge and take in the spectacular vistas and city lights below.

Although it has a sordid background, the Colorado Street Bridge is a must-see site in the city because of its unique characteristics and history.

Address: 504 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States

Eaton Canyon Nature Center

Take a trip to this location if you’re looking for a Pasadena adventure that you won’t soon forget.

Hiking in Eaton Canyon Nature Center offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.

The center’s exhibits include a wide range of live animals, habitats, and plants that give visitors an up-close look at the wonders of the natural world.

Winter is a great time to visit since there are fewer tourists and a more laid-back atmosphere. Summer isn’t the ideal season to watch wildlife or enjoy nature’s most gorgeous blossoms.

Previously a component of the San Andreas Fault, the San Gabriel River’s east and west forks may be found on the San Gabriel Fault.

Many stream crossings, mild paths on fire roads, and single tracks make this course suitable for novices.

You won’t want to miss the hiking and wildlife trails at Eaton Canyon Natural Center.

Address: 1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena, CA 91107, United States

Historic Old Pasadena

Expect the unexpected when you visit this delightful location!

Old Pasadena was the city’s first formally organized commercial zone, sometimes known as Old Town Pasadena or just Old Town.

In addition to preserving its historic architecture, the Old Pasadena neighborhood is a vibrant arts and culture district.

An old-fashioned downtown vibe is paired with all the modern conveniences you’d expect.

In addition, tourists of all ages will find much to enjoy in the city’s history.

Various options abound for visitors of all ages in this historic district, including museums, art galleries, live music venues, cinemas, shopping, dining, and sidewalk cafés.

More than 200 stores, boutiques, and restaurants may be found in 22 historic blocks.

It is, in reality, everything within easy walking distance and situated in the heart of the city.

In addition, there is a slew of eateries and hip pubs to choose from.

Take a stroll around the historic core of Pasadena’s Old Town to see why it is so popular with tourists.

Address: 1 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States

Huntington Library and Gardens

Don’t forget to pack your best walking shoes for this trip!

Historic Pasadena landmark Henry E. Huntington built it. He is a railroad magnate as well as an art collector.

In 1919, as a result of their efforts, they created a garden. Stunning collections of rare books, manuscripts, and well-known artwork were gathered together by them.

The botanical gardens are spread over 120 acres and feature 16 themed gardens. Rose, Japanese, and Shakespeare gardens are some options available.

The garden encourages botanical study as well as conservation and cryopreservation.

A big part of its mission is to maintain and increase public interest in the museum’s treasures.

The library hosts more than 1,700 academics each year in history, literature, art, science, and technology history and awards 150 scholarships.

In addition to the well-known Rose Garden Tea Room and The Cafe, there are three more options for families to dine here.

Every month on the first Thursday, the garden is open to the public for free!

Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, United States

Ice House Comedy Club

Are you starting to become restless? Have some fun at the Ice House Comedy Club!

In 1960, this magnificent club opened its doors as a folk music venue.

Ice House Pasadena is the only club in the United States to have been open for 61 years and counting in the United States. It is, in fact, the oldest comedy club in the country.

The Ice House attracted performers and spectators from all around the country.

Many prominent comedians have performed at the club since its opening, including Bob Newhart, Robin Williams, and Ellen DeGeneres.

This venue has hosted artists like Linda Ronstadt and Kenny Rogers.

A VIP section and a balcony are incorporated in Stage 2.

This intimate venue’s seating arrangement places patrons within seven rows of the stage, providing an enjoyable night out.

The menu at The Ice House has everything from nachos and margaritas to rib-eye steak and a martini.

Nothing is better than getting away from reality and having a good time at a comedy club.

Address: 24 N Mentor Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106, United States

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

You’re a devotee of science and wish to go to the stars. You’ve come to the right place!

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory was founded, focusing on aviation and space research.

This NASA-funded facility was built in 1936 and is presently maintained by the California Institute of Technology (Caltech).

Amateur rocket enthusiasts and Caltech graduate students in Pasadena began experimenting with rocket engines in the 1930s.

The first American Earth-orbiting satellite, Explorer 1, was manufactured at JPL and launched in January 1958.

In reality, this facility is a national leader in the search for new frontiers in space exploration that humans have yet to attain.

They’ve sent probes to every star system and the sun to learn more about the cosmos and look for signs of life elsewhere.

In a joint effort, Caltech and JPL scientists and engineers work together to conduct planetary exploration, Earth science, and space-based astronomy programs.

Additionally, JPL conducts missions to monitor our planet’s environment and aid in disaster relief.

To ensure a smooth visit to JPL, you must reserve in advance.

Address: 4800 Oak Grove Dr, Pasadena, CA 91109, United States

Kidspace Children’s Museum

Even children require a little fun time once in a while! Fun, education and self-expression are all possible in this setting.

The Kidspace Children’s Museum is an excellent choice for families searching for a fun place to go together.

The first Kidspace Children’s Museum debuted at the California Institute of Technology in 1979. The City City is home to the non-profit, privately owned Kidspace Children’s Museum.

A free museum visit requires museum membership, which may only be obtained on-site.

To encourage a child’s natural curiosity and development, the museum offers more than 100 interactive exhibits for children ages 1 to 10.

On the Kidspace website, you’ll find various educational options for students of all academic backgrounds.

Families and children will enjoy the picnic spaces and playgrounds scattered throughout the paths.

A museum is an excellent place for youngsters to develop their imaginations and cultivate a love of learning.

Your kids will throw a fit and refuse to leave the museum, so just be prepared for that.

Address: 480 N Arroyo Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States

Lucky Baldwin’s

Stop by for some of the city’s best fish & chips and Belgian brews.

Owners Peggy Simonia and David Farnworth have served Pasadena residents and visitors at Lucky Baldwin’s for over two decades.

In Southern California, it was the first Belgian-themed beer tavern.

As a result, Lucky Baldwins Bar is situated in one of Pasadena, California’s oldest buildings.

Breakfast, lunch, and supper are all served here, which is why the pub has such a loyal following.

The venue has more than 60 rotating and unusual beers on tap.

Lucky Baldwins celebrates many European drinking occasions, including our Belgian Beer Festival and many IPA festivals.

Lucky Baldwin was the target of two murder attempts after he purportedly proposed to two women and then ended the engagements!

Try Lucky Baldwin’s Fish and Chips and beer when you’re in Pasadena!

Address: 17 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States

Norton Simon Museum

Visit the world’s most incredible museum on Colorado Boulevard to see the world’s best sculptures and paintings.

The Norton Simon Museum, one of California’s finest private art collections, was purchased by the name Norton Simon. He started collecting artwork in the early 1900s.

The Sculpture Garden and Café at the rear of the Norton Simon Museum are also well-known. A group of enormous sculptures

The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 12,000 pieces of art.

This collection includes paintings by Rembrandt van Rikin and Vincent van Gogh, including Portrait of a Boy and Mulberry Tree.

In addition, the museum hosts a variety of events and activities, such as rotating exhibits, conferences, courses, and workshops.

You may also use the museum’s attentive staff for self-guided tours.

Additionally, the Norton Simon Theater, which presents film programs regularly, is part of the museum.

Aside from lectures and symposia, the organization sponsors dance and musical events throughout the year.

You’ll feel like you’re in a European art museum when you visit the Norton Simon Museum!

Address: 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States

Pasadena City College Flea Market

Because of a limited budget, were you hoping to buy a gift for a loved one? The Pasadena City College Flea Market has your back!

Since 1979, the PCC flea market has raised $150,000 yearly for scholarships, with a part of the proceeds going to charitable organizations.

The market has a broad selection of apparel, antiques, crafts, and other handiwork for sale.

Students who wish to complete their education benefit from your purchases at the PCC flea market and the merchants.

Participants from PCC’s flea market and purchasers can contribute to the scholarship fund by attending the event.

The market is available to the public on the first Sunday of each month from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Make sure you buy from the top seller on the market, as there are over 400!

The PCC flea market is the ideal place to find ancient treasures.

Address: 1570 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106, United States

Pasadena City Hall

Take in the city’s magnificent architecture while exploring one of Pasadena’s oldest government structures.

Pasadena City Hall opened its doors for business in 1927.

When John Bakewell and Arthur Brown designed City Hall in the 1920s, they were influenced by the early Renaissance style of Italian architect Andrea Palladio.

When John Bakewell and Arthur Brown designed City Hall in the 1920s, they were influenced by the early Renaissance style of Italian architect Andrea Palladio.

Elegant fountains and lush greenery make this patio a beautiful place to relax and unwind.

It quickly became a favorite of photographers due to its dedication to maintaining the building’s original design in public spaces.

It’s a terrific place for wedding and portrait photography.

As a movie location, the City Hall has often been utilized by filmmakers.

A castle-like structure frames the City Hall building, and the courtyard has a Spanish Colonial feel.

Bring your camera to Pasadena City Hall, and take as many photos as possible!

Address: Garfield Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, United States

Rose Bowl Stadium

The Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena is a must-see for everyone visiting the city for the first time.

It’s an outdoor sports complex in Pasadena, California. It was inaugurated in October 1922 as a sports facility and tourist attraction.

The stadium has been designated a National Historic Landmark and a California Historic Civil Engineering Landmark because of its significance in American history.

This year’s Rose Bowl is the United States’ oldest college football postseason game.

At 92,542, the Rose Bowl Stadium is the 15th-largest stadium in the world and the 11th-largest stadium in the United States.

Aside from its size, the Rose Bowl Stadium is a well-known destination for soccer fans.

In addition to sporting events, it has hosted some of the biggest musical acts in history.

Bowl Stadium holds its famed Flea Market every second Sunday of the month.

Before you go, know all the specifics of your favorite sporting event. JPL is situated in Pasadena, California, at Oak Grove Drive.

Address: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States

The Gamble House

In terms of Craftsman architecture, the Gamble House is the best.

Before moving to a new home, David and Mary Gamble resided in a house named for their famous Procter & Gamble Corporation surnames in Pasadena, California.

It was important to David and his wife that their winter home in California be warm, so they engaged the Greene brothers to design and build it.

In 1923 and 1929, David and Mary remained in the house until their deaths.

Gamble House is now one of America’s best-known and most valued historic properties. Many call it “America’s masterpiece of arts and crafts.”

Several movies have included settings filmed at Gamble House.

As a National Historic Landmark in 1978, the Gamble House is one of Pasadena’s most well-known tourist destinations.

Visit the Gamble House in Pasadena, California, to see one of the city’s oldest residences.

Address: 4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States

The Pasadena Playhouse District

The Pasadena Playhouse District is one of California’s most popular tourist attractions!

The Pasadena Community Playhouse was established in 1917 by Gilmor Brown.

With the support of Brown, more than 1,000 Pasadena people donated to the purchase of the site where the theater now sits.

The Pasadena Playhouse District is known for its museums, galleries, restaurants, and independent shops.

The Playhouse is the most well-known of several attractions.

The Pasadena Playhouse has hosted theatergoers for almost a century.

Shakespeare’s plays were performed here for the first time in the United States at this theater with a seating capacity of 686 people.

There have been at least 300 performances yearly since then, and they’ve maintained their excellent standards.

A wide range of cultural and artistic events, as well as professional gatherings and exchanges, are held here every year.

The Pasadena Playhouse is California’s official State Theatre, so don’t miss out on a play!

Address: 709 E. Colorado Blvd. Suite 160 Pasadena, CA 91101

St. Andrew Catholic Church

If you’re a Catholic, you must see St. Andrew Catholic Church.

One of the oldest Catholic parishes in Los Angeles County, Pasadena’s St. Andrew Church, was founded in 1886.

The campanile bell tower, one of Pasadena’s most famous landmarks, can be seen from miles away.

The church’s interior was inspired by the early Christian basilica of Santa Sabina in Rome.

St. Andrew Church has been added to the National Register of Historic Places because of its impressive reproduction of Romanesque architecture.

A series of earthquakes in the 1970s and 1980s severely damaged St. Andrew’s Church, necessitating extensive repair and restoration work.

It was in 1897 that the church established what was to become St. Andrew Catholic School in its residence on North Fair Oaks Avenue.

St. Andrew’s has a slew of costly maintenance and repair concerns. An autumn concert in the church was held to help fund the project.

Consider the Church’s artwork and interior to be well worth your time.

Address: 311 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States

Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden

Where else but in Pasadena, California, can you experience the tranquility of the Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden?

It was between 1935 and 1940 that Charles and Ellae Storrier Stearns employed Japanese landscape designer and craftsman Kinzuchi Fujii to develop and build the Japanese garden.

It was created on the site of a former tennis court, Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden.

Japanese culture in the United States has never looked better than in this garden.

It was also established before World War II, making it the only big Japanese-style garden in Southern California.

This pond-themed walk garden has a traditional teahouse and a fifteen-foot waterfall on around two acres of area.

The park hosts a variety of activities, including musical concerts, seasonal festivals, meditation sessions, art demonstrations, and tea ceremony demonstrations.

Overall, the garden offers a tranquil setting to relax and enjoy natural splendor.

If you’re looking for a quiet retreat, go no further than this spot!

Address: 270 Arlington Dr, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States

USC Pacific Asia Museum

Learn about Asian art and culture at the United States’ first university museum dedicated only to Asian art and culture.

For the preservation of Asian culture and art, the USC Pacific Asia Museum was created in 1971.

More than 15,000 works of art from Asia and the Pacific Islands are housed there, many rare and representative.

Many cultural groups in Pasadena found a home in this structure, which became a hub for the arts.

The galleries on the first floor included American Indian and Oriental antiquities and the work of famous local, national, and worldwide living artists.

A vast auditorium on the second level is featured for educational purposes, presentations, and exhibitions.

Through its educational and outreach initiatives, the museum has reached a diverse group of visitors, including schoolchildren, families with older children, and academics.

In addition, the museum offers tai chi and yoga classes for visitors, as well as workshops in haiku poetry and calligraphy.

Visit the USC Pacific Asia Museum while you’re in town to learn about Asian culture and take in the artwork of Asian immigrants.

Address: 46 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, United States

Vroman’s Bookstore

In Pasadena, California, Vroman’s Bookstore is a terrific place to relax and decompress from the hustle and bustle of the city.

At Vroman’s Bookstore, Adam Clark Vroman opened in 1894. It’s the state’s first and oldest bookshop.

Mr. Vroman relocated to Pasadena, California, in the late 1800s for his wife Esther’s health.

His valued book collection was sold two years after Esther’s death to fund the construction of a new bookshop.

Photo studio meets bookshop, at least on the surface, at The Bookstore.

Additionally, Vroman’s is renowned for its world-class literary events and book signings. The store hosts almost 400 free community events each year.

Vroman also offers summer reading programs, author visits, and book groups for teens and children, among other things.

Southern California’s oldest and largest independent bookstore, The Bookshop, has stayed in business.

The perfect book is waiting for you at Vroman’s Bookstore!

Address: 695 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101, United States