Pasadena is a separate city northeast of downtown Los Angeles that the City of Pasadena describes as best known for the annual Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game. Metro's A Line runs from downtown LA toward Pasadena, with Memorial Park Station serving the Norton Simon Museum and USC Pacific Asia Museum (Discover Los Angeles). Choose it for a calm, walkable day trip.
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Best for | Museums, a walkable downtown, Rose Bowl events |
| Trade-offs | Away from the beach; events can affect traffic and prices (our assessment) |
| Getting around | Metro A Line from Union Station; Memorial Park Station serves museums |
| Key places | Rose Bowl, Norton Simon Museum, USC Pacific Asia Museum |
| Nearby | Downtown LA, Griffith Park |
What to see and do
Visit Pasadena describes a lush and walkable cityscape and lists the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game among year-round events. Check the Tournament of Roses and Rose Bowl Stadium sites for current dates.
Practical notes
Pasadena sets its own hotel tax; ask your hotel to itemize it. See hotels.
Our assessment
Pasadena is an easy rail-based day trip from Downtown LA.