Things to do in Pasadena

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Pasadena

Types of activities

Pasadena travel guide

Norton Simon Museum featuring a statue or sculpture

Norton Simon Museum showing a statue or sculpture

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What to do in Pasadena

Popular places to visit

Universal Studios Hollywood

Go behind the scenes of one of Hollywood’s oldest studios and give yourself a starring role in the action adventure of a lifetime!

Long Beach Cruise Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Long Beach with a trip to Long Beach Cruise Terminal. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.

Staples Center which includes shopping, signage and a statue or sculpture

Crypto.com Arena

This multipurpose sports arena has hosted some of the world’s biggest musical acts and is home to two National Basketball Association teams.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Enjoy the excitement at Six Flags Magic Mountain and find out why this is a popular theme park in Stevenson Ranch. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Santa Monica Beach

Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.

Dodger Stadium

Catch an event at Dodger Stadium during your trip to Los Angeles. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.

University of Southern California

Enjoy the student vibe with a visit to University of Southern California, a top university in Los Angeles. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Los Angeles Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in Los Angeles Convention Center, a top convention centre in Los Angeles. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and great live music in this vibrant area.

Venice Beach

Tacky and wacky by turns, this sun-drenched strip of sand is a favourite playground for city-weary Angelenos.

Los Angeles

Glendale

Altadena

Frequently asked questions

Is Pasadena worth visiting?

One of the most common things to do in Pasadena is explore Griffith Observatory. Tick this major attraction off your itinerary, then experience more of this area's festivals and history.

How do I spend a day in Pasadena?

Griffith Observatory and Los Angeles Zoo are two excellent places to begin your holiday adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Pasadena while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Pasadena?

Griffith Observatory is one of the top tourist attractions in Pasadena and deserves a place on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Pasadena?

You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Norton Simon Museum, Pasadena Playhouse and Kidspace Childrens Museum with a three-day getaway in Pasadena. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and head to Los Angeles.

Is Pasadena a walkable city?

That depends on what you'd like to do and see in Pasadena. Several top attractions, including Norton Simon Museum and Pasadena Playhouse, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Pasadena's best neighbourhoods, Lamanda Park is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Old Pasadena is 0.48 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Pasadena with kids?

Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Pasadena with kids.

What to do in Pasadena for adults?

San Antonio Winery and Olvera Street are just a couple of the things to do in Pasadena. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Pasadena?

In Pasadena, Colorado Street Bridge is a popular spot for anyone wishing to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Pasadena.