Smell The Roses And See The Stars With These 10 Tours In Pasadena, CA

pasadena tour
Navraaz
Navraaz 
Updated

With the sunshine, the culture, the food, LA and Hollywood nearby, Pasadena is a hotspot for tourists. But with the vast amount of options available as to what to do and how to do it, there are high chances of simply getting lost in the crowds and not getting the most out of each experience. That is why it is a wise decision to book a tour while visiting Pasadena so that you can make the most out of your stay and enjoy each moment doing activities you choose with a guide to show you how it’s done. Check out these 10 great tours that take you through Pasadena so that your memories here are well worth your time and money!

1. Rose Parade Tour (from 159 USD)

Java Float in the Rose Parade 2013_fused_Crop
Source: Photo by user Scrubhiker (USCdyer) used under CC BY 2.0

This is a tour that you have to book well in advance but will give you the opportunity of a lifetime to experience the infamous Rose Parade close up and personal. This eight hour tour will take you from San Diego to the streets of Pasadena on New Years Day where you get reserved seats to witness the parade and all the excitement around it.

Rose Parade Tour

Price: from 159 USD

Website:

2. Pasadena Museum of California Art Docent Tour

Pasadena Museum of California Art (covered in vinyl)
Source: Photo by user Kevin Stanchfield used under CC BY 2.0

The Pasadena Museum of California Art is a wonderful place for you to experience the artistic history of California and its artists. This unique museum highlights the work of local artists and their influence on the culture of the region. There are free tours available once a month or you can book a private tour for a fee. This is a great way to explore Californian culture and history.

Pasadena Museum of California Art Docent Tour

Address: 490 E Union St, Pasadena, CA 91101

Website: Pasadena Museum of California Art

3. Fenyes Mansion Tours

Pasadena Museum of History - main building
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jllm06 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

As the home of Dr. Adalbert and Eva Fenyes this beautiful example of lavish architecture in Pasadena is a must see. The furnishings, the art collection and the landscaping are all something to marvel at as you tour this home and get a view of the luxurious lifestyles of the wealthy in Pasadena.

Fenyes Mansion Tours

Address: 164-198 N Orange Grove Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91103

Price: from 15 USD

Website: Fenyes Mansion Tours

4. Old Pasadena Food Tasting Walking Tour

Pasadena
Source: Photo by user Passion Leica used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Follow your guide through a delicious tour of Old Pasadena that will let you taste what the locals call their favorite haunts. This tour is given by experienced guides that know all about Pasadena’s past and how it developed as well as the evolution of Old Pasadena into a foodie town.

Old Pasadena Food Tasting Walking Tour

Website: Old Pasadena Food Tasting Walking Tour

5. Gamble House Tour

The Gamble House, Pasadena, California
Source: Photo by user Ken Lund used under CC BY-SA 2.0

For all the architecture buffs out there this is one stop you will definitely want to make. The Gamble House is an architectural gem as well as a National Historic Landmark. It is well known for its flowing aesthetic from the outdoors to the indoors as well as the unique elements of construction.

Gamble House Tour

Address: 4 Westmoreland Pl, Pasadena, CA 91103

Website: Gamble House Tour

6. Norton Simon Museum Tours

The Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, California
Source: Photo by user SupportPDX used under CC BY 2.0

This museum began as an art institute and has now expanded to a vast collection and an amazing landscape. Come explore the international as well as local art displays that highlight the great affair between Pasadena and the art world. With various options available for the tours you’ll be able to either enjoy the museum while a solo walk through or join a group.

Norton Simon Museum Tours

Address: 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105

Website: Norton Simon Museum Tours

7. The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens Tours

Huntington Library and Gardens
Source: Photo by user Joe Flood used under CC BY-ND 2.0

This expansive institution is a must see while you are visiting Pasadena. With an incredible amount of resources within its library, art collection and garden grounds, you are bound to spend the day here. Enjoy one of the tour options as you explore one of California’s treasures.

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens Tours

Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108

Website: The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens Tours

8. Pasadena Walking Tours

The Shops on South Lake Avenue
Source: Photo by user Zeetz Jones used under CC BY 2.0

If you’re short on time or just prefer a more one on one experience in experiencing Pasadena, then consider taking this tour. This is a private tour that will allow you to see Pasadena at your own pace while asking questions and gaining all the knowledge you desire while walking through the beautiful streets. The guide is at your disposal as you relish the architecture and history of Pasadena.

Pasadena Walking Tours

Website: Pasadena Walking Tours

Witness the merging of old culture and new art in Pasadena, California

This beautiful city is a haven for luxury architecture, sprawling gardens and trendy art. If you are looking to spend some time in the city made famous by its treasure trove of museums, mansions, The Rose Parade and eateries then consider taking one of these tours that will maximize your good times in Pasadena, California.

Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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