Plan the Perfect Family-Friendly Vacation in Pasadena

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Pasadena

Pasadena is the ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories together. With its vibrant mix of interactive activities, outdoor adventures, and hands-on creative experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From exploring beautiful gardens and hiking trails to crafting personalized keepsakes, Pasadena offers countless opportunities for fun and bonding. Get ready to discover why this charming city is a top pick for family-friendly getaways!

Interactive Adventures for Curious Minds

Pasadena boasts several attractions that invite kids (and kids at heart) to learn through play and exploration.

Kidspace Children’s Museum: Dive into a world of discovery with interactive exhibits like the rock climbing wall, physics forest, and Arroyo Adventure.
Neon Retro Arcade: Step back in time at the Neon Retro Arcade, where modern kids and nostalgic parents can bond over classic arcade games and pinball machines.
USC Pacific Asia Museum: Introduce your family to the art and culture of Asia and the Pacific Islands with interactive opportunities during special family programs and create crafts inspired by traditional Asian art forms.

Creative Experiences for the Whole Family

Pasadena is full of hands-on creative activities that spark imagination and let families take home something special from their trip.

Hello Pottery DIY Studio: Choose from acrylic pours, phone case decorating, jewelry box customization, Swedish lamp making, and more. There's something for every interest!
Banter and Bliss: Every member of the family can create their own custom candles. Choose from an array of scents and colors, and let the experts guide you through the candle-making process.
Plushumi: Make plushies entirely made from scratch. Their beginner-friendly workshops guide visitors step-by-step as a simple yarn ball is transformed into a handmade plushie.

MUSE/IQUE is a member-supported, nonprofit performing arts organization making radically engaging live music experiences accessible for all. Built on a...

Neon Retro Arcade is a "new" entertainment concept that celebrates the history of video games. Proudly featuring 40+ classic arcade games and pinball machines...

Known around the world as one of the most remarkable private art collections ever assembled, industrialist Norton Simon spent over 30 years amassing an...

World's 1st permanent ""polehole"" disc golf course. Directions From the 210 Fwy, exit Berkshire Dr., turn east off ramp to a left at stop light. Go past La...

Classic Theater. Parson's Nose Theater is a classical comedic theater company that established a new permanent home in Pasadena, California. Parson's Nose is...

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Historic Venue. This 3,000-seat theater was dedicated in 1932, and it is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Civic—as it is colloquially...

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Campus-style Convention Center. The Pasadena Convention Center is located near City Hall, Central Library, Police Department and other civic buildings that...

"The Pasadena Croquet Club shares clubhouse facilities with the Pasadena Lawn Bowling Club (hyperlink business listing), located in Pasadena's Central Park....

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The Pasadena Ice Skating Center facility features an NHL regulation size rink with 4 team rooms, skate rental, party room, vending machines, pro shop, and...

The Pasadena Lawn Bowling club is located at the clubhouse at Central Park. Established in 1921, the club is older than the Rose Bowl Stadium and was built...

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Preserving Pasadena's Legacy. Pasadena Museum of History is the only museum and research library dedicated solely to preserving and sharing the history, art,...