Pasadena, California is a charming city located just north of Los Angeles, in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. I would recommend:
2 days: A quick weekend getaway to Pasadena is enough to see some main highlights. On Day 1, visit Old Pasadena with shopping, dining and cultural attractions like the Pasadena Museum of History and Castle Green. In the afternoon visit the Norton Simon Museum, a world-class art museum. On Day 2, tour the 100-room Fenyes Mansion and its tranquil gardens. After lunch at a cafe along Colorado Blvd, visit the Huntington Library and its stunning themed gardens. 2 days lets you experience Pasadena’s essence but at a very fast pace.
3 days: For a more well-rounded experience of Pasadena that avoids feeling rushed, 3 days is recommended. In addition to the suggestions for 2 days, you can:
-Relax on Day 1 and only see part of Old Pasadena, with extra time at the Norton Simon. Explore the rest of Old Pasadena on Day 2.
-Visit other cultural attractions like the Pacific Asia Museum or do a Rose Bowl tour on Day 3.
-Stroll through the Perry House and Gardens for beautiful themed terraces and mountain vistas.
-Shop along Lake Ave and Colorado Blvd at a leisurely pace. Both are lined with independent boutiques.
-Dine al fresco in the courtyard at La Grande Orange Gastropub or Green Street Restaurant. Pasadena has amazing food!
•Beyond 3 days: If you want to fully immerse yourself in Pasadena’s culture, nature and architecture without feeling pressed for time, 4 days or longer is ideal. Additional activities could include:
-Hiking in Eaton Canyon Natural Area or at a higher elevation in the San Gabriel Mountains.
-Visiting the Gamble House, a well-preserved Arts & Crafts masterpiece.
-Exploring the Santa Anita Race Track, a historic LA landmark open since 1907.
-Some more unusual museums like Bunny Museum or the Pasadena Model Railroad Museum.
-Relaxing at your hotel pool or taking a yoga class – Pasadena has a sunny Mediterranean climate!
-Day trips to Hollywood, LA’s museums or Disneyland, all about 30 minutes from Pasadena.
Itineraries
1. Itinerary
Sure, I can act as a travel guide for you. Here is a sample 3-day itinerary for Pasadena, CA, based on some of the information I found online.
Day 1: Experience the art and culture of Pasadena
- Start your day with a yummy breakfast at Russell’s, a classic diner that serves dishes like eggs benedict, French toast, pancakes and more¹.
- Head to the Huntington Library, a museum and botanical garden that features a collection of rare books, manuscripts, art and plants. You can see works by Shakespeare, Chaucer, Gutenberg and more; paintings by Gainsborough, Turner, Hopper and more; and gardens like the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden and the Desert Garden.
- For lunch, head to Julienne, a charming bistro that serves salads, sandwiches, soups and desserts. You can also shop for gourmet items at their market.
- After lunch, visit the Norton Simon Museum, which showcases a collection of European and Asian art from the Renaissance to the present. You can see works by Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso and more; sculptures by Rodin, Moore and more; and artifacts from India, China, Japan and more²³.
- Next, explore the Old Pasadena, a historic district that features shops, restaurants, bars and attractions. You can stroll along the Colorado Boulevard or visit the Pasadena Museum of History.
- For dinner, enjoy some Mediterranean cuisine at Bistro 45, an elegant restaurant that serves dishes like lamb chops, salmon, risotto and pasta. You can also enjoy a wine pairing from their extensive list.
- End your day with some entertainment at The Ice House, a comedy club that hosts stand-up comedians every night. You can also grab a drink at their bar or watch a movie at their cinema.
Day 2: Enjoy the nature and adventure of Pasadena
- Have a light breakfast at Urth Caffé, a cafe and bakery that offers pastries, sandwiches, salads and coffee¹.
- Drive to the Angeles National Forest, a vast wilderness area that offers hiking, biking, camping and wildlife watching. You can also visit the Mount Wilson Observatory or the Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area.
- For lunch, stop by Newcomb’s Ranch, a rustic restaurant that serves burgers, sandwiches, wraps and salads. You can also enjoy the views of the mountains and the forest from their patio.
- After lunch, drive to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a NASA center that designs and operates robotic spacecrafts. You can take a guided tour of the facility and see models of Mars rovers, satellites and rockets.
- For dinner, savor some Thai food at Daisy Mint, a cozy restaurant that serves dishes like pad thai, curry, noodles and soup. You can also order vegan or gluten-free options.
- End your day with some fun at Pasadena Playhouse, a historic theater that hosts plays, musicals and concerts. You can also take classes or workshops if you want to learn how to act or sing yourself.
Day 3: Experience the history and architecture of Pasadena
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Marston’s Restaurant, a family-owned restaurant that serves dishes like cornflake French toast, huevos rancheros, omelets and more.
- Join a Pasadena Heritage Tour and learn about the city’s historic landmarks and neighborhoods. You can choose from different themes, such as Craftsman homes, Victorian mansions or Art Deco buildings.
- For lunch, head to The Raymond 1886, a fine dining restaurant that serves seasonal dishes made with local and organic ingredients. You can choose from dishes like duck breast, scallops, pork chop or gnocchi.
- After lunch, visit the Gamble House, an architectural masterpiece designed by Greene & Greene in 1908. You can tour the house and its gardens, which are examples of the Arts & Crafts movement.
- Next, explore the South Lake Avenue District, a shopping and dining area that features boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants. You can shop for clothes, books, jewelry or art.
- For dinner, treat yourself to some steak at Alexander’s Steakhouse, an upscale restaurant that serves prime cuts of meat, seafood and sides. You can also enjoy a cocktail at their bar or lounge.
- End your day with some comedy at The Ice House Annex, an intimate venue that hosts improv shows every Friday and Saturday night. You can also watch stand-up comedians at their main stage or lounge.
2. Itinerary
Day 1: Uncover the History and Culture of Palm Springs
Morning: Begin your day with breakfast at Cheeky’s, a popular restaurant known for its fresh, locally-sourced menu. After breakfast, take a tour of Palm Springs’ iconic mid-century modern architecture. You can either take a guided tour or explore at your own pace.
Lunch: Have lunch at Sherman’s Deli & Bakery, a Palm Springs staple known for its delectable sandwiches and hearty salads.
Afternoon: Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum, which features a sophisticated collection of art, a compelling theater program, and a cultural museum.
Dinner: Dine at Le Vallauris, which offers a wonderful fusion of French and Californian cuisine in an elegant setting.
Day 2: Experience the Natural Beauty of Palm Springs
Morning: Enjoy breakfast at the Palm Greens Café, offering organic, vegan, and gluten-free options. Next, head to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Aboard the world’s largest rotating tramcar, you’ll experience a breathtaking journey up the cliffs of Chino Canyon to Mt. San Jacinto State Park.
Lunch: Once you’ve explored the park, have lunch at Peaks Restaurant at the top of the Tramway. It offers stunning views and a variety of dishes.
Afternoon: After descending back into Palm Springs, head over to the Indian Canyons for a hike. These beautiful canyons are great for bird watching, hiking, or horseback riding.
Dinner: Visit Workshop Kitchen + Bar for a farm-to-table dining experience with a menu that changes with the seasons.
Day 3: Discover Unique Attractions and Leisure Activities
Morning: Start your day with breakfast at King’s Highway at the Ace Hotel. Following breakfast, visit the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium, a unique garden specializing in desert plants.
Lunch: For lunch, head to El Mirasol, which serves some of the best Mexican food in Palm Springs.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon shopping and exploring the unique stores and art galleries along Palm Canyon Drive.
Dinner: For your final dinner, head to Copley’s on Palm Canyon, a renowned restaurant located in part of Cary Grant’s former estate, offering innovative American cuisine.
This 3-day itinerary offers a mix of Palm Springs’ rich history, natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. Enjoy your trip to this desert oasis!
I hope this itinerary gives you an idea of what to do in Pasadena for three days. There are many more things to see and do in this city that I couldn’t fit in this sample itinerary. If you want more information or suggestions for your trip planning,
you can check out these websites:
- https://www.visitpasadena.com/
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-guide/pasadena
Tips
Some additional tips for your trip:
- The best time to visit Pasadena is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild.
- Pasadena is a very walkable city, so you can easily get around on foot. However, if you plan on doing any hiking or exploring the mountains, it’s a good idea to rent a car.
- Pasadena is a very affordable city, so you can easily find great deals on hotels, restaurants, and activities.
- Pasadena is a very diverse city, so you’re sure to find something to eat that you’ll love. Some popular local dishes include tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
- Pasadena is a very friendly city, so be sure to say hello to the locals and ask them for recommendations. They’ll be happy to help you make the most of your trip.
My favorite restaurants in Pasadena:
- The Raymond: This restaurant is known for its French cuisine and elegant atmosphere.
- The Bazaar by José Andrés: This restaurant is a Spanish tapas bar with a lively atmosphere.
- The Grill on Colorado: This restaurant is known for its steaks and seafood.
My favorite activities in Pasadena:
- Visiting the Norton Simon Museum: This museum has a large collection of art from around the world.
- Visiting the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens: This estate is home to a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a desert garden, and a rose garden.
- Taking a walk through Old Pasadena: This historic district is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Visiting the Rose Bowl Stadium: This stadium is home to the annual Rose Bowl Game and is also a popular spot for concerts and other events.
- Catching a show at the Pasadena Playhouse: This historic theater hosts a variety of plays, musicals, and concerts.
- Hiking in the Arroyo Seco: The Arroyo Seco is a beautiful canyon that runs through Pasadena.
- Visiting the California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Caltech is a world-renowned university with a beautiful campus.
- Enjoying a leisurely stroll through Brookside Park: The park is home to a variety of gardens, a lake, and a playground.
In summary, Pasadena offers something for all tastes. You can see the main attractions on a quick 2 to 3 day trip, but its lush gardens, shopping, dining, culture and recreational activities make it easy to linger longer to embark on a more immersive 4 to 7 day escape from Los Angeles. Enjoy your trip!