Summary
Pasadena is the queen of the San Gabriel Valley, sitting at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains next to a dry riverbed known as the Arroyo Seco. Some Angelenos perceive the city merely as another LA suburb; however, it is closer to Downtown Los Angeles than many actual suburbs. Pasadena stands as a vibrant city in its own right, having become the second incorporated city in Southern California after Los Angeles in 1886. Consequently, it is now the 6th largest city in Los Angeles County, with an estimated population of around 145,000 in 2005. Its valley location provides a climate approximately 20 degrees warmer than beach communities during summer months.
The name Pasadena translates to “in the valley” in the Minnesota Chippewa language, which raises the question of why that language was chosen over the local Tongva Indian language. The answer appears to be connected to historical relationships among early settlers.
Pasadena is renowned for its upscale community, thriving arts and cultural scene, and a plethora of dining and shopping options. These are primarily centered around Old Town Pasadena and extend into the Theatre District.
Additionally, Pasadena is best known for the Tournament of Roses, which features both the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl Game that take place every New Year’s Day.
Getting to Pasadena by Air
The Bob Hope Burbank Airport is the most convenient airport for reaching Pasadena. While Ontario Airport is somewhat farther than LAX, it is a smaller facility, making it easier to navigate and faster to process through. Moreover, driving from Burbank is generally more manageable than traversing the busy Los Angeles International Airport, unless you are traveling during the late night when traffic is less of an issue. For travelers interested, further details about flying into the LA area can be explored via external sources.
Driving to Pasadena
Main travel routes into Pasadena include the 110 Harbor Freeway, which concludes in Pasadena and transforms into Arroyo Parkway as you head north into downtown. Another important route is the 134/210 Freeway, which merges and traverses the northern part of Pasadena from west to east.
Beware: The 710 Freeway, often referred to as the Pasadena Freeway, does not actually lead into Pasadena. While it heads north from Long Beach in that general direction, plans to extend the freeway into the city have been stalled due to the inability to acquire the necessary neighborhoods. Consequently, drivers taking the Pasadena Freeway to its northernmost point will still need to navigate surface streets through Alhambra and South Pasadena before finally reaching Pasadena. Although the signs indicate “Pasadena,” it’s important not to rely solely on them. From the 710, taking the 5 north will lead you over to the 110 and directly into the city.
By Train or Long Distance Bus
Pasadena does not currently offer an Amtrak Station; however, Amtrak buses from select destinations do stop at the Pasadena Hilton Hotel located at 150 S. Los Robles Ave. Additionally, there is a Greyhound Bus Terminal positioned at 645 E. Walnut Street for convenient access.
Taking Public Transportation to Pasadena
The Metro Gold Line commences at Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles, traveling to the far edge of Pasadena at Sierra Madre with six designated stops throughout the city. Bus service is provided by the MTA and the Foothill Transit Authority. Furthermore, an Arts Bus operates, shuttling passengers between various arts and shopping destinations in Pasadena for a nominal fare of $0.50. Exploring options for riding the MTA Metro provides valuable insights for those relying on public transport.
