Last updated on September 28th, 2025
From historic architecture to world-class museums and lush gardens, Pasadena offers an incredible array of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant food scene, immersing yourself in art and culture, or enjoying family-friendly attractions, these are the best things to do in Pasadena for an unforgettable Southern California experience.
Here are the top things to do in Pasadena for visitors and locals alike.
Why Visit Pasadena?
Pasadena’s top attractions offer:
🏨 Historic architecture and landmarks
🍽️ World-class dining and food tours
🚤 Beautiful botanical gardens and outdoor spaces
💆 Exceptional museums and cultural institutions
🌆 Family-friendly activities for all ages
Best Things to Do in Pasadena
1. Old Pasadena Food Tasting Walking Tour
The Old Pasadena Food Tasting Walking Tour is one of the most delicious things to do in Pasadena. Sample gourmet treats from local eateries while learning about the area’s history and architecture. The 3-hour tour includes enough food to make a meal, with stops at 6-7 family-owned restaurants and specialty food shops.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Highlights: Local specialties, historical insights, small group experience
- Perfect for: Foodies and first-time visitors
2. Norton Simon Museum
The Norton Simon Museum is one of the most impressive cultural things to do in Pasadena, housing an exceptional collection of European paintings, Asian sculptures, and modern art. The museum’s sculpture garden is particularly stunning, featuring works by Rodin and other masters.
- Location: Colorado Boulevard
- Highlights: Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Picasso works; peaceful gardens
- Perfect for: Art lovers and quiet contemplation
3. Kidspace Children’s Museum
Kidspace Children’s Museum is one of the top things to do in Pasadena with kids, offering hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play. The 3.5-acre space features interactive areas focused on physics, nature, and creativity.
- Location: Brookside Park
- Highlights: Climbing towers, water play area, seasonal events
- Perfect for: Families with children 1-10 years old
4. Pasadena Ghost Tour: Purgatory Phantoms
The Pasadena Ghost Tour offers one of the most unique things to do in Pasadena after dark. This 90-minute walking tour explores the city’s haunted history and paranormal hotspots with a knowledgeable guide sharing spooky tales and historical insights.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Highlights: Historic haunted locations, ghost stories, paranormal investigations
- Perfect for: Thrill-seekers and history buffs
5. Old Pasadena Historic District
Old Pasadena is one of the essential things to do in Pasadena, offering 22 blocks of historic buildings housing boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The district’s preserved early 20th-century architecture creates a charming atmosphere for shopping and dining.
- Location: Central Pasadena
- Highlights: Unique shops, great restaurants, historic architecture
- Perfect for: Shopping, dining, and people-watching
6. The Gamble House
The Gamble House is one of the most architecturally significant things to do in Pasadena. This 1908 Craftsman masterpiece designed by Greene and Greene offers docent-led tours that showcase its exquisite woodwork and innovative design.
- Location: West Pasadena
- Highlights: Original furnishings, intricate woodwork, architectural details
- Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts and history buffs
7. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington is one of the most magnificent things to do in Pasadena, combining art collections, rare books, and 120 acres of themed gardens. The Japanese Garden and Desert Garden are particularly stunning, while the library houses rare works like a Gutenberg Bible.
- Location: San Marino (near Pasadena)
- Highlights: Diverse gardens, art collections, tea room
- Perfect for: Nature lovers and culture enthusiasts
8. Griffith Observatory
While not technically in Pasadena, the Griffith Observatory is one of the most popular things to do near Pasadena, offering breathtaking views of Los Angeles and fascinating astronomy exhibits. The planetarium shows are particularly impressive, and the building itself is an Art Deco masterpiece.
- Location: Griffith Park (about 30 minutes from Pasadena)
- Highlights: LA views, planetarium shows, Tesla coil demonstrations
- Perfect for: Science enthusiasts and photographers
9. Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens is one of the most peaceful things to do in Pasadena, featuring 150 acres of cultivated gardens and natural oak woodlands. The Japanese Garden and Rose Garden are particularly beautiful, while the seasonal flower displays offer year-round color.
- Location: La Cañada Flintridge (near Pasadena)
- Highlights: Camellia forest, Japanese teahouse, seasonal blooms
- Perfect for: Nature lovers and romantic strolls
10. Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden
The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden is one of the most serene things to do in Pasadena, offering a traditional Japanese landscape with koi ponds, tea houses, and meticulously pruned plants. This hidden gem provides an authentic Japanese garden experience right in Pasadena.
- Location: Arlington Heights
- Highlights: Tea ceremonies (seasonal), koi ponds, authentic design
- Perfect for: Meditation and cultural appreciation
11. The Broad Modern Art Museum
While located in downtown LA, The Broad is one of the most exciting cultural things to do near Pasadena, housing an impressive collection of contemporary art. The museum’s innovative architecture and works by artists like Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama make it a must-visit for art lovers.
- Location: Downtown Los Angeles (about 30 minutes from Pasadena)
- Highlights: Infinity Mirror Room, postwar and contemporary collections
- Perfect for: Modern art enthusiasts
12. Pasadena Ice Skating Center
The Pasadena Ice Skating Center is one of the most fun things to do in Pasadena, offering year-round skating regardless of Southern California’s warm weather. The facility hosts public skating sessions, lessons, and hockey programs.
- Location: East Pasadena
- Highlights: Year-round skating, lessons available, family-friendly
- Perfect for: Families and active visitors
13. Grand Central Market
While located in downtown LA, Grand Central Market is one of the most delicious things to do near Pasadena, offering a diverse array of food vendors in a historic setting. The market has operated since 1917 and features everything from authentic Mexican food to artisanal coffee.
- Location: Downtown Los Angeles (about 30 minutes from Pasadena)
- Highlights: Diverse food options, historic atmosphere, local products
- Perfect for: Food lovers and quick bites
14. Jet Propulsion Laboratory
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory is one of the most fascinating things to do in Pasadena for science enthusiasts. While public tours are limited, the visitor center offers exhibits about space exploration and JPL’s role in planetary science and Earth observation.
- Location: North Pasadena
- Highlights: Spacecraft models, mission exhibits, science displays
- Perfect for: Space enthusiasts and STEM learners
FAQs About Things to Do in Pasadena
Final Tips for Visiting Pasadena
– Many attractions offer discounted admission on certain days or times
– Consider purchasing city passes if visiting multiple museums
– Parking can be challenging in Old Pasadena – use public transit when possible
– Book tours in advance for popular experiences like the food tour
Whether you’re interested in art and culture, outdoor activities, or culinary experiences, Pasadena offers diverse attractions that showcase Southern California’s rich history and vibrant present. These things to do in Pasadena promise memorable experiences for visitors of all ages and interests.
