Pasadena is your starting point for several types of day trips and attractions. Begin your day retracing Rose Bowl parade routes, hike the San Gabriel mountains, or relax on sunlit beaches by afternoon, and as dusk settles, venture to the Griffith Observatory for a night of stargazing.
Cities and Attraction Near Pasadena
Los Angeles: Only 10 miles from Pasadena is Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, you can watch a show at the Pantages Theatre, visit The Getty Center’s art collections, take a tour of celebrity homes, hike to Griffith Observatory, and grab a meal at Grand Central Market.
Burbank
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Dive into the heart of film magic. Witness iconic sets, costumes, and maybe even a celebrity or two.
- NBC Studios: Secure a spot for a live taping. It’s a rare chance to see television in the making.
- Bob’s Big Boy Diner: Enjoy classic burgers and shakes in this historic fast-food restaurant. Every Friday from 4-7pm enjoy classic car shows.
- Magnolia Park: Browse boutique shops, vintage stores, and artisan cafes on this charming street.
San Marino
- Lacy Park: A beautifully maintained 30-acre park in the heart of San Marino. Lacy Park has walking loops, tennis courts, low-elevation hiking trails, a rose garden, and picnic areas. The park is a favorite spot for families, joggers, and anyone looking to relax in a calm environment. Entrance is free for everyone during he weekdays and $5 per person for non-San Marino residents on weekends.
- The Old Mill (El Molino Viejo): Built around 1816 as a gristmill for Mission San Gabriel, it’s one of the oldest structures in San Marino. Today, The Old Mill operates as a museum showcasing its history and construction.
Anaheim
- Disneyland Resort: Dive into the magic of two iconic theme parks – Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
- Anaheim Packing District: Enjoy a variety of delicious foods in this historic building, a former Sunkist citrus-packing facility built in 1919.
- Angel Stadium: Catch an Angels baseball game, or take a behind-the-scenes tour of Angels stadium.
- Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center: Unleash your inner pilot in thie flightdeck simulator. You can be a fighter pilot, rogue racer, or airline pilot.
Buena Park
- Knott’s Berry Farm: Have fun in one of America’s oldest theme parks. Take pictures with Snoopy, enjoy a funnel cake, ride the famous Calico River Rapids, and eat the famous Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner.
- Knott’s Soak City: Beat the Californian heat at this expansive water park filled with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
- Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: Step back in time and witness a two-hour jousting tournament. Six knights compete in games of skill, jousting matches, and ground battles. As the tournament unfolds, guests are treated to a “hands-on” medieval-style feast. The menu typically includes items like garlic bread, roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn, herb-basted potatoes, and a dessert, all served without silverware
- Pirate’s Dinner Adventure: At Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, you’ll eat inside a detailed replica of an 18th-century Spanish ship. It’s a dining experience that combines theater with history in an unforgettable way.
Universal City
- Universal Studios Hollywood: Experience the world of movies with movie-themed rides (Transformers, The Simpsons, The Mummy), stunt shows, and a behind-the-scenes studio tour. Each tour is slightly different depending on the time of day you take it.
- Universal CityWalk: Located next to Universal Studios Hollywood, offers a mix of dining, shopping, and live entertainment. Enjoy the latest films at Universal Cinema or unwind in one of its bars and lounges. On Friday and Saturday nights, you can see magicians, dancers, and street musicians performing. Tip: Parking is usually cheaper after 5pm.
Beaches within Driving Distance of Pasadena
Santa Monica Beach
About 30 miles south of Pasadena, Santa Monica offers a pristine beach alongside a bustling pier. Ride the Ferris wheel, explore the aquarium, ride your bike along the path or hang out on the coastline.
Malibu
Further up the coast, Malibu is a popular area for beach volleyball and RV camping. Surfrider Beach in Malibu, close to the Malibu Pier, is a well-known surfing location frequented by surfers from all over Southern California.
Long Beach
Long Beach, CA is a coastal city where modern skyscrapers meet historic landmarks like the Queen Mary. Its shores are perfect for biking, walking, or simply soaking up the sun. While in Downtown Long Beach, visit the Aquarium of the Pacific and its Arts District.
Dockweiler Beach
If you love bonfires, visit Dockweiler Beach. Dockweiler Beach is one of the few beaches in the area where you can have bonfires. Tip: reserve your firepit early. They are usually gone by 10am.
Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is big in the beach volleyball circuit. Manhattan Beach hosts the Manhattan Beach Open Volleyball Tournament annually.
Pasadena Weekend Getaway Ideas
Catalina Island
A short ferry ride from Long Beach or San Pedro will take you to Catalina Island. Dive into its clear waters, zipline, or hike its rugged terrains. History fact: Catalina Island was once owned by William Wrigley Jr and was the preseason home of the Chicago Cubs.
Palm Springs
Just under two hours from Pasadena, Palm Springs is a desert oasis known for its modernist architecture, therapeutic hot springs, and vibrant nightlife.
Santa Barbara
Drive up the coast for about two hours, and you’ll reach Santa Barbara. Renowned for its Spanish colonial-style architecture, wineries, and the scenic Stearns Wharf, it’s the ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a family weekend.
Joshua Tree
A drive of about two and a half hours southeast of Pasadena takes you to Joshua Tree National Park.
Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its unusual Joshua Trees and amazing starry nights, making it an ideal spot for those who enjoy nature, hiking, and stargazing. Tip: If you have a child who is a 5th grader, they will get free admission into Joshua Tree.
San Diego
San Diego, located about two hours south of Pasadena, has a good mix of attractions, including the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and the sprawling San Diego Zoo Safari Park. From the lively Gaslamp Quarter to the sun-soaked beaches of La Jolla, San Diego promises a packed weekend of excitement. Fun fact: San Diego is a few miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Cities and Attractions Near Pasadena FAQ
Q: How far is the drive from Pasadena to the closest beach?
A: The closest beach is Santa Monica, approximately 30 miles away, which takes around 40 minutes to an hour and a half depending on traffic.
Q: Are there any national parks near Pasadena?
A: Yes, the Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains is about 15 minutes from Pasadena.
Q: What’s the best time of year for a beach trip from Pasadena?
A: Summer months, from June to September, are ideal. However, the beaches in Southern California are beautiful year-round, with spring and fall offering milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Q: Are there any guided tours from Pasadena to nearby attractions?
A: Yep! Numerous companies offer guided trips to LA’s hotspots, studio tours in Burbank, and even get-aways to more distant attractions like Catalina Island or Santa Barbara.
Q: Which beach is best for a family day out?
A: Long Beach and Santa Monica are great for families due to their plethora of activities, including aquariums, piers, and bike rentals. However, all the beaches listed have unique offerings that families can enjoy.
Q: How far is Disneyland from Pasadena?*
A: Disneyland, located in Anaheim, is about a 30-minute drive from Pasadena without heavy traffic.*
Q: Can I reach these places using public transportation?
A: Yes, while driving is often more convenient, there are public transit options available. The Metro Gold Line can take you into LA, from where you can connect to other destinations. However, for some beaches or attractions, a combination of trains and buses might be required.
Q: Are there any seasonal events in Pasadena that I shouldn’t miss?*
A: Absolutely! Don’t miss Pasadena ArtNight held twice a year and the Tournament of Roses Parade held on New Year’s Day
Q: Which mountain trails are recommended for beginners?
A: In the San Gabriel Mountains near Pasadena, trails like the Eaton Canyon Falls Trail and the Cobb Estate trail offer moderate hikes suitable for beginners.
