Outdoor Activities
Push your outdoor activity to the limits with some of the most fun outdoor activities in Pasadena, CA. Explore our famous nature areas on foot or by bike, stroll our tree-lined streets, or make a splash at our world-class aquatic center. Make sure you bring the proper gear and plenty of water when touring Pasadena’s outdoor attractions.
Eaton Canyon
This nature area features a waterfall and has easy trails for beginners that are dotted with stepping stones across the creek, as well as equestrian trails and wildlife.
Walking Tours
Stroll the streets of historic Pasadena to take in the area’s iconic architecture.
Arroyo Seco
Just a mere 1/2 mile from us, this famous park features stunning rock formations, plus provides opportunities for archery, horse stables, tennis courts, fly fishing and bouldering spots.
Rose Bowl Aquatic Center
Swim at multiple Olympic-size pools at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center. Day passes are available on-site.
Botanical Gardens
The Huntington Library and Gardens | 3.2 miles
The Huntington Library and Gardens is a renowned cultural institution in California, featuring stunning gardens and a collection of rare books and art.
Descanso Gardens | 8.2 miles
Descanso Gardens is a serene botanical oasis in California, offering picturesque landscapes, diverse plant collections, and peaceful walking trails.
LA Arboretum | 8.4 miles
The LA Arboretum is a lush sanctuary in California, showcasing a rich tapestry of plant life, tranquil pathways, and captivating botanical displays.
Museums
Discover remarkable private art collections featuring Van Gogh, Picasso, Rodin, and Degas, and admire carefully preserved architecture at some of Pasadena’s most beloved museums.
Pasadena Museum of History
The Pasadena Museum of History is a captivating cultural center, preserving and showcasing the rich heritage and stories of Pasadena and its surrounding region.
Huntington Library and Gardens Museum
The Huntington Library and Gardens is a renowned cultural institution in California, featuring stunning gardens and a collection of rare books and art.
Norton Simon Museum
The Norton Simon Museum is a prestigious art museum in California, housing a remarkable collection of European and Asian artworks spanning centuries.
Gamble House
The Gamble House is an architectural gem in California, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and design as an iconic example of the Arts and Crafts movement.
Local Events
Tournament of Roses Parade
The annual Tournament of Roses Parade is one of the most popular bucket list experiences for guests who come from around the globe! Our excellent location cannot be matched! We are 1 mile south of the start of the parade on Orange Grove and guests can view floats set up the night before right at our corner and enjoy the 2nd largest New Year’s Eve celebration by walking the boulevard with thousands of visitors.
We are the only lodging on Orange Grove below Colorado Blvd. and guests can purchase stand seating or walk up to the parade.
Rose Bowl
Attend one of the most popular college football games and the Rose Bowl after the annual Tournament of Roses Parade! Our B&B’s excellent location places guests right at the start of the parade, and just a short drive or walk from the stadium. It’s one of the most popular things to do in South Pasadena and any event there is always a memorable time.
The Rose Bowl is home to year-round and seasonal events, like concerts, a flea market, UCLA football games, other sporting events, and much more!
Old Town & Tours
Old Town Pasadena
Wander down the tree-lined streets of Pasadena’s historic downtown and business district! Visit over 200 local boutiques and hundreds of world-class restaurants and cafés. It’s easy to fall in love with Pasadena’s small-town charm, making the area a popular choice for filming within Hollywood. You won’t want to miss Colorado Street and the Rose Bowl Flea Market.
There are several ways to see the things that Pasadena is famous for. We’ll be happy to send you in the right direction, you can take a self-directed tour, or you can sign up to join local tour guides for these unique attractions.
From Old Town Pasadena, get to downtown LA and the surrounding area via the Metro Gold Line light rail.
Restaurants
Ask us for our top recommended restaurants in South Pasadena, CA during your stay at The Bissell House. It’s our pleasure to recommend our favorite places to eat during your stay in our historic lodgings. Join us for a fresh lacto-ovo-vegetarian breakfast each morning before heading out to explore Old Town Pasadena and downtown LA, just a 15-minute drive away.
The Raymond Restaurant | 11-minute walk | $$$
Enjoy a refined menu of steak and seafood at this New American restaurant. An elevated and unique dining experience, this elegant steakhouse is housed inside a delightful cottage with a garden patio.
Aro | 13-minute walk | $$
Boasting a wide selection of vegetarian and meat options, Aro’s specialty is an Oaxacan menu complete with bar and outdoor seating.
Bistro de la Gare | 14-minute walk | $$
This charming bistro offers seating in their petite dining room, the mahogany bar and open-air sidewalk seating. Taste authentic French cuisine in the midst of Old World ambiance.
Mike & Anne’s | 15-minute walk | $$
Sit outside on the expansive patio of this contemporary bistro. Featuring a menu of comfort foods and healthy options, this casual restaurant is the perfect place to meet up with friends.
Communal | 15-minute walk | $$
Tucked beneath twinkling outdoor lights is this rustic beer and wine garden. Order a selection of pub bites to pair with your local craft beer.
Shiro | 3-minute drive | $$$
Discover the combination of French and Japanese cuisine at this understated place to eat in Pasadena, CA. An unexpected choice for dinner with coworkers, this fusion restaurant is sure to strike the perfect balance.
Gus’s BBQ | 5-minute drive | $$
Ever since its opening in 1946, Gus’s BBQ has been a community staple. Come for Happy Hour drinks and stay for barbeque slow-cooked over pecan logs.
Gale’s | 6-minute drive | $$
Everyone’s family at Gale’s, where Italian pasta, roasted meats, and fresh bread with balsamic and olive oil keep coming out of the kitchen door. Come in and eat up.
