Pasadena(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For prime access to the Rose Bowl Stadium, stay at Hotel Pasadena or The Westin Pasadena. Both are within a 10-minute walk of the stadium and offer convenient parking, event concierge services, and special packages during Rose Parade season. The Westin also features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the stadium and surrounding hills, ideal for pre-game gatherings. These hotels blend historic charm with modern amenities, making them perfect for sports fans and cultural travelers alike.

The best area for first-time visitors is Downtown Pasadena, centered around Colorado Boulevard. It’s home to iconic landmarks like the Pasadena City Hall, Norton Simon Museum, and Eaton Park. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Staying here ensures easy access to public transit, including the Pasadena Metro Rail, and proximity to Rose Bowl events. Plus, the district hosts seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and live music—perfect for immersing in local culture from day one.

Yes, The Westin Pasadena offers a dedicated Family Fun Package featuring kids’ welcome gifts, supervised activity rooms, and a complimentary breakfast buffet with healthy options. The hotel is steps from Pasadena Children’s Museum and San Gabriel River Trail, making it ideal for families. Some suites even include bunk beds and mini-fridges stocked with snacks. Additionally, staff can arrange guided nature walks or museum scavenger hunts, ensuring children stay engaged and entertained throughout the stay.

Many hotels near the Rose Bowl provide exclusive Rose Parade viewing packages. Stay at Hotel Pasadena or Pasadena Plaza Hotel, which offer reserved bleacher seats, early access passes, and shuttle services directly to parade routes. Guests also receive event guides, behind-the-scenes insights on float design, and themed cocktails at on-site bars. Some hotels host pre-parade parties with live music and local vendors, giving you a full immersion into this world-famous tradition.

Beyond the Rose Parade, explore the Norton Simon Museum for its exceptional collection of Impressionist art and Indian sculpture. Visit the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) for free public lectures and campus tours showcasing cutting-edge science. For a quieter experience, stroll through the Pasadena City College Botanical Garden, where over 3,000 plant species thrive in lush landscapes. These sites reflect Pasadena’s identity as a hub of art, innovation, and natural beauty.

Yes, several hotels provide complimentary shuttle services to key destinations. The Westin Pasadena operates a daily shuttle to the Rose Bowl, Norton Simon Museum, and downtown shopping areas. Hotel Pasadena partners with local ride-share providers and offers HopeGoo assistance via their app. Many hotels also have partnerships with Pasadena Transit and Metro Rail, providing real-time schedules and route planning tools to help guests navigate easily without a car.

Hotel prices in Pasadena vary by season and location. Mid-range options like Hotel Pasadena cost between $180–$250 per night during off-peak times, while luxury stays such as The Westin Pasadena range from $280–$400. During peak events like the Rose Parade, rates can exceed $450. For budget-conscious travelers, consider boutique B&Bs or apartment-style rentals near Caltech, starting at $150 per night, offering more space and kitchen access.

Yes, Old Oak Manor Bed & Breakfast is a hidden gem nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. This turn-of-the-century Victorian mansion offers personalized service, homemade breakfasts, and a private garden. Guests can join monthly Stargazing Nights led by amateur astronomers, complete with telescopes and local wine. Located just 15 minutes from downtown, it’s perfect for those seeking tranquility, history, and a deeper connection to nature and community.

Absolutely. Downtown Pasadena is compact and walkable, with most attractions—including Pasadena City Hall, Norton Simon Museum, and Eaton Park—within a 10-minute radius. Hotels like Hotel Pasadena offer express check-in/out and flexible cancellation policies, ideal for last-minute trips. Enjoy a morning coffee at a local café, an afternoon at the botanical gardens, and a sunset view from the Rose Bowl. With vibrant street life and seasonal events, Pasadena delivers rich experiences in just 48 hours.

Yes, The Westin Pasadena and Pasadena Plaza Hotel hold Green Key Certification and implement sustainable practices such as energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and zero-single-use-plastic policies. They source ingredients locally for breakfast buffets and use solar panels for hot water. Guests can participate in on-site recycling programs and community clean-up events. These initiatives align with Pasadena’s broader commitment to becoming a green city, offering environmentally conscious travelers a meaningful stay.