Pasadena, California

When most people hear the name Pasadena, they think of one thing: the Rose Bowl! While the Tournament of Roses may be the event that Pasadena, California is best known for, the city has so many other great things to offer. Aside from the amazing southern California weather (all swimming pools and sunglasses!), there’s a thriving arts community, fabulous spots for your inner outdoor adventure seeker, a cool downtown area, and so much more. It’s close to Los Angeles and all of the surrounding towns (including Anaheim and Disneyland), yet far enough away to have a vibe all its own. Next time you’re RVing through Southern California, roll through in an RV rental Pasadena CA and check out these spots!

Popular Tourist Attractions

Norton Simon Museum

Pasadena’s Norton Simon Museum houses an impressive collection of Asian and European art and sculptures. However, perhaps its biggest draw is the absolutely stunning outdoor sculpture garden, where visitors can simultaneously see great art and take advantage of the warm, dry climate. It’s open every day except Tuesday, and admission is $12 for adults, $9 for seniors, and free for everyone else. And if seeing art makes you hungry, the museum’s Garden Cafe has you covered.

Eaton Canyon Natural Area

Featuring hiking and nature trails, a nature center, and tons of great sightseeing opportunities, Eaton Canyon natural area is where you want to go when you want to get away from it all. Its 190-acres are situated at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains, and visitors are welcome every day from dawn until dusk. Take some time to explore this geological, botanical, and zoological treasure.

Pasadena Museum of California Art

You won’t find a museum like the PMCA anywhere else, as it houses rotating exhibits of California art and design. Discover the true meaning of California Dreaming, and see the real effect that Manifest Destiny has had on our creative psyche. It’s open afternoons Wednesday through Sunday, and admission is $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.

Campgrounds and State/National Parks

Chilao Campground

Located in the Angeles National Forest, the Chilao Campground is a bit primitive as far as RV camping goes, but that’s a small price to pay for being able to fall asleep in the mountains. No hookups are available, only vault toilets are available, and your RV can’t be longer than 40 feet. Wake up to great hiking trails, lots of wildlife (watch out for bears!), and some of the best views you’ve ever seen. The Chilao Campground is perfect for your camper rental Pasadena CA!

East Shore RV Park

Just east of Pasadena in San Dimas is this awesome RV resort. It’s got over 500 paved spots with full hookups, and guests have access to restrooms with showers, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, a playground, and much more. There’s even a fishing lake stocked with trout, bass, and catfish. Rates are based on season as well as what type of view you’d like. East Shore is a great RV park for RV rentals near Pasadena CA!

Soledad Canyon RV and Camping Resort

This one’s in Acton just north of town and also on the northern edge of the Angeles National Forest. If you value amazing views and lots of accommodations, though, you may find it worth the trip. Full hookups and all the amenities are here, mini golf is on site, and if you want a swimming pool, you’re in luck: they’ve got the largest one in the west. Don’t want to be bothered by small kids? You’ll find peace and quiet at the adults-only area with its own pool.

Events

Tournament of Roses

If you’re a college football fan, we probably don’t have to tell you twice that this is the event you should get to! Celebrate New Year’s Eve and then get to bed so you can enjoy America’s New Year Celebration: the Rose Parade, and of course, the Granddaddy of them All, the Rose Bowl itself. Plan early, as the event is hugely popular and tickets are in demand.

Pasadena Strawberry Festival

For over 40 years, springtime in Pasadena has meant strawberry time. These fruits show up early in the season, and they’re celebrated in the middle of May at the Pasadena Strawberry Festival. The atmosphere is more like a county fair: you’ll find carnival rides, live musical entertainment each night, a parade, a BBQ cook-off, a kids area, and more. And, don’t miss out on a helping of the world’s largest strawberry shortcake.

If you’re looking for a destination where the breezes are always warm, the views are always gorgeous, and there’s always something interesting to see or do, you’re going to love Pasadena. Even if you’re not there on the first of the year for the big famous football bash, it’s not hard to find something to pique your interest on the other 364 days on the calendar.

Safe travels from all of us here at RVshare in your RV rental Pasadena!