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Pasadena is a vibrant city nestled in the San Gabriel Valley. It's home to a wide range of attractions including the world-famous Rose Bowl Stadium, Colorado Boulevard, The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, and the breathtaking Gamble House. With fascinating art tours, a plethora of shopping opportunities, and lush gardens, you've got an unbeatable day out. Have a look at the best attractions in Pasadena that you can't miss!
7 Fun Things To Do In Pasadena: Top Places To Visit
Old Pasadena
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The historic Old Town Pasadena consists of 22 blocks and is home to over 300 businesses. It's the ultimate shopping and dining destination with entertainment for all ages. Moreover, the famous street called Colorado Boulevard runs through the lively district and features open-air plazas and fantastic restaurants.
You can visit museums and galleries, attend live music events, or relish a cup of coffee at one of the cozy outdoor cafes. The historic Pasadena Playhouse, a state theater of California with a 686-seat auditorium, and Norton Simon Museum are also located in the heart of Pasadena.
Address: 1 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105, United States
Pasadena City Hall
Pasadena City Hall was completed in 1927 and features both Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival style architecture. If you're close to Old Town Pasadena, take the opportunity to walk around this beautiful building and snap some photos.
Address: 100 Garfield Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, United States
Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
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Only an 8-minute drive from Old Pasadena, Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens houses beautiful art galleries and features lush gardens. The world-class gem offers a range of tours — Specialty Tours, Group Tours, Free Garden and Art Tours (available with general admission or membership), School Tours, and Takeaway Tours (for example the Centennial Family Tour).
Explore the exquisite botanical gardens with rare and endangered plants, admire European paintings, and browse rare books. The library also contains a Gutenberg Bible and the first edition of Shakespeare, the largest collection of 18th-century art in the Americas, and a stunning children’s garden.
Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, United States
The David B. Gamble House was designed by Charles & Henry Greene in 1908. It's famous for being the finest example of early 20th-century Craftsman architecture. The home was originally built for David and Mary Gamble, the heirs of the Procter & Gamble Company. Today it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and owned by the City of Pasadena.
You can tour this architecturally significant home on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Sundays. There are various tours available including One-Hour Docent-Guided Tour, Gardens & Gables, Behind The Velvet Ropes, and Fire & Art.
Address: 4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States
Located at 24 Mentor Avenue, The Ice House is a long-standing comedy club. Some of the most famous comedians have performed here: Jim Carrey, Howie Mandel, Jerry Seinfeld, and Steve Martin. Whether you want to see an up-and-coming comedian or a big-name act, this legendary place won't leave you disappointed!
Address: 24 N Mentor Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106, United States
Eaton Canyon Nature Center
Photo Credit: Eaton Canyon Nature Center
Take a break from bustling tourist spots and visit Eaton Canyon Nature Center at the base of the gorgeous San Gabriel Mountains. The zoological, botanical, and geological nature preserve offers picnic tables, equestrian trails, and hiking trails. Additionally, you can visit the Center which contains live animals, displays, and an auditorium.
Address: 1750 N Altadena Dr, Pasadena, CA 91107, United States
Rose Bowl Stadium
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Rose Bown Stadium is a world-famous outdoor athletic stadium. It has hosted two FIFA World Cup Finals, five Super Bowls, numerous concerts, and the annual Rose Bowl Game. Visitors are welcome to hike The Rose Bowl Loop Trail around the stadium or take a tour of the original 1922 Locker Room and get an up-close look at the field.
Address: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States
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