カリフォルニア州パサデナで絶対に外せない30以上のアクティビティ

30+ Unmissable Things to Do in Pasadena, California – A Local’s Guide | Tasty Itinerary Skip to content Share and save: X Facebook Email Flipboard Pinterest SMS Looking for things to do in Pasadena, California? Plan a day trip, spend a weekend, or stay longer in this City of Roses—it’s a place full of charm and surprises. Pin Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our full disclosure for details. One evening, while enjoying dinner on a patio at one of Pasadena’s amazing restaurants , we realized something: you don’t need to leave Pasadena to feel like you’re on vacation. After 10 years of calling this city home , we’ve found it has everything—history, culture, nature, and some of the best food in Southern California. Pasadena is packed with attractions. Think museums, theaters, botanical gardens , parks, hiking trails, and two true national treasures: the iconic Rose Bowl and the world-famous Rose Parade. Its beautifully preserved architecture, from Craftsman-style homes to historic landmarks, adds a unique charm you’ll notice wherever you go. The dining scene is equally exciting, from food trucks and hidden gems to Michelin-recognized restaurants. While Pasadena doesn’t have a beach, it makes up for it with local spots like Eaton Canyon Falls , where you can enjoy a refreshing hike, and the aquatic center at the Rose Bowl, which offers community pool access and more. This guide covers some of the best things to do in Pasadena. It’s not every single thing—you don’t need an overwhelming list to start planning—but these are the highlights we think you’ll love. After years of visiting Pasadena before making it home, these are the activities and spots that keep us coming back. Bookmark these other related reads in Pasadena: Our Go-To Places to Eat in Pasadena Restaurants for Date Night in Pasadena Fun Facts About Pasadena Pasadena has its fair share of claims to fame! Here are just a few fun facts that make this city even more unique: The Rose Bowl and the Rose Parade are two of Pasadena’s most iconic attractions, with the parade drawing national attention every New Year’s Day (or the following day if it falls on a Sunday). Many movies and TV shows , including Father of the Bride and The Big Bang Theory, have been filmed or set in Pasadena . Julia Child , the famous chef, was born and raised here. Trader Joe’s was founded in Pasadena, opening its first store in the city. The cheeseburger was invented right here in Pasadena. Van Halen emigrated to and lived in Pasadena, where the band began its journey to stardom. Explore Historic Old Town Pasadena Old Pasadena, or “Old Pas” as locals call it, is the heart of the city. Spend the day exploring its charming streets, shopping at unique boutiques, or savoring delicious food at a variety of restaurants. This historic district blends a rich past with a lively mix of modern spots to discover. 1. Explore Old Pasadena Pin Pin Pin Pin Old Pasadena, often considered the city’s heart, is a must-visit for anyone exploring Pasadena. Spanning 22 blocks and home to over 300 businesses, it offers endless shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities. Start your walk on Colorado Boulevard, part of the historic Route 66 and the iconic route of the Rose Parade. Along the way, you’ll find shops, restaurants, and bars nestled in beautifully preserved brick buildings. Don’t miss the alleys off Colorado Boulevard for a more authentic Old Pasadena experience—they’re perfect for uncovering hidden gems, from street art to unique shops and cozy eateries. Take time to look up and down as you explore. Architectural details and historical markers around town tell the story of Pasadena’s rich past, blending history with its vibrant present. Parking Tip: Parking can be tricky in Old Pasadena. Expect to pay up to $10 in garages or use street parking for a lower hourly rate—if you can find a spot. Download the Passport Parking app to make paying easy. Top Foodie Pick: Stop by Russell’s for an unbeatable breakfast or brunch. For dinner, Union serves incredible pasta, and Perle offers French-inspired cuisine that’s a local favorite. 2. Check out One Colorado Pin Pin Pin Pin Notice the historical ghost sign on the white structure of Olune’s Pasadena Theatre. These are the kind of details that are easily missed. One Colorado is a slightly hidden gem in Old Pasadena in a lovely courtyard. To find it, walk through the alley by Sephora or Miller Alley, and you’ll discover an inviting outdoor space. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a cup of coffee and good company when events aren’t happening. This courtyard is home to al fresco dining at restaurants like Sage Vegan Bistro and Il Fornaio. It also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including silent discos, live music, outdoor movies, and games, making it a vibrant hub of activity. While you’re there, don’t miss Coffee and Plants , one of the prettiest cafés in Pasadena. Their iced matcha is a must-try! 3. Walk Down Green Street Pin Green Street Green Street is one of our favorite spots for a stroll, especially at night. The trees wrapped in blue lights create a beautiful, inviting atmosphere, perfect for an evening walk. Along the way, you’ll see people dining al fresco or enjoying the charm of Old Pasadena as they wander through the area. Top Foodie Pick: Some of our favorite restaurants on Green Street are Entre Nous, a cozy French bistro, and Agnes, known for its delicious farmhouse-inspired dishes. 4. Find Big Bang Theory Way Pin Fans of The Big Bang Theory will love this nod to the hit TV show, which was set in Pasadena. To celebrate the show’s 200th episode, the city named an alley in its honor: Big Bang Theory Way . Pasadena also declared February 25th as Big Bang Theory Day to commemorate the milestone. Fun Fact: Real-life locations in Pasadena were featured in The Big Bang Theory! For more details, check out this article by LAist.com . 5. See a Movie at iPic Theater 42 Miller Alley, Pasadena Google Map It If you’ve never treated yourself to a luxury movie experience, iPic Theater is a must. This upscale theater features soft leather recliners, cozy blankets, and the option to enjoy dinner service right at your seat. It’s so comfortable that you might even find yourself nodding off during the film. While tickets can be pricey, signing up for their free Silver membership is worth it—members get discounts on regular-priced tickets. Be sure to book your tickets and select seats in advance, as showtimes often sell out quickly. Keep in mind that food and beverages are an additional cost, but the experience is well worth it for a special movie night. 6. Play Classic Arcade Games at the NEON Retro Arcade 28 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena Google Map It Pin Step into nostalgia at the NEON Retro Arcade in Old Town Pasadena. This vintage arcade features over 40 classic games and pinball machines, including timeless favorites like Tetris, Donkey Kong, and Pac-Man. For those who grew up with these games, it’s a fun trip down memory lane. It’s also a fantastic spot for family fun. Spend an hour or two playing at the arcade, then head over to Wanderlust Creamery for some ice cream to round out your day or evening. Pricing: $15 for one hour or $25 for all-day gaming. Reservations are available to secure your spot. 7. Stop by Amara’s Cafe for Spanish-Style Churros 55 S Raymond Ave, Pasadena Google Map It Pin For freshly made Spanish-style churros, head to Amara’s Cafe on Raymond Avenue. These churros are made to order and perfect for any churro lover. Take them to go as you explore Old Pasadena, or sit down and enjoy them with a cup of their rich hot chocolate or freshly brewed coffee. Don’t forget to try the dipping sauces for an extra treat! Amara’s isn’t just about churros—their Venezuelan breakfast menu is just as enticing. The breakfast arepas and cachapas are so good, they’ll win you over at the first bite. 8. Visit Pasadena City Hall 100 Garfield Ave, Pasadena Google Map It Pin Pin Pin Pin Pasadena City Hall is a must-see landmark in Old Pasadena. While the city is full of beautiful architecture, this 1927 masterpiece stands out as an iconic symbol of Pasadena and houses the city’s government offices. To fully appreciate its charm, visit during the week when it’s less likely to be crowded with weddings or special events. You might even recognize it from a few films and TV shows, including Truth Be Told on Apple TV. Take some time to wander inside and explore the serene courtyard—a perfect spot for a meet-up or some time to reflect. And don’t miss seeing the building at night, when it’s beautifully lit. Our favorite time to visit is during the holidays, when Pasadena City Hall is adorned with festive decorations, including a Christmas tree that adds an extra touch of magic. 9. Visit Plaza de Las Fuentes 135 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena Google Map It Pin Pin Pin Pin Just beyond Pasadena City Hall, past the fountain, and through the back entrance, you’ll find Plaza de Las Fuentes across the street on South Euclid Avenue. Translated as “Plaza of Fountains,” this beautifully designed courtyard features serene pools and stunning tiled artwork. The plaza is part of the complex that houses the Westin Pasadena and is surrounded by a mix of office buildings and lush landscaping, making it a surprisingly peaceful spot in the middle of a bustling area. It’s also a short walk from the Pasadena Playhouse District, giving you easy access to theaters, shops, and more dining options nearby. Tip: Dine in the outdoor area of California Pizza Kitchen for a fantastic view of Plaza de Las Fuentes and city hall. 10. Take a Pasadena Walking Tour View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kathy | Cruise. Food. Travel. (@tastyitinerary) Want to dive deeper into Pasadena’s history, architecture, and even its spooky side? Book a guided tour with Pasadena Walking Tours , which offers one to two differe