Best Family-Friendly Activities in Pasadena, CA

Nestled in the San Gabriel Valley, Pasadena, CA, offers a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. From enchanting gardens to interactive museums, this charming city provides endless opportunities for memorable family outings. Amy Engler presents some of the best family-friendly activities in Pasadena, CA, that promise fun and learning for everyone.

For a more hands-on experience, the Kidspace Children's Museum is a perfect destination. Located near the Rose Bowl, this museum offers interactive exhibits designed to engage children in science, art, and nature. The Arroyo Adventure section invites kids to climb, dig, and create in a natural setting, while the Imagination Workshop allows budding engineers to build and experiment with various materials.

Indoor exhibits include the Physics Forest, where children can explore the principles of motion and energy through playful experiments. The museum frequently hosts special events and workshops, making it a dynamic place to visit multiple times throughout the year.

The Norton Simon Museum, known for its impressive art collection, also caters to younger audiences with its engaging programs and family-friendly activities. The museum offers Family Day events, where children and parents can explore art through hands-on activities and guided tours. The Sculpture Garden provides a serene outdoor space where families can enjoy the artworks amidst beautifully landscaped grounds.

Just a short drive from Pasadena, Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge offers another beautiful outdoor experience. This 150-acre garden features a variety of themed areas, including the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and Ancient Forest. The Enchanted Railroad, a 1/8th-scale replica of a diesel train, is a hit with children, offering rides through scenic parts of the garden.

Families can also enjoy bird-watching, picnicking, and exploring the interactive exhibits in the Sturt Haaga Gallery. Special events, such as the Enchanted Forest of Light during the holiday season, provide unique and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

For families who enjoy outdoor adventures, Eaton Canyon Natural Area offers miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a nature center. The easy, family-friendly trails lead to the picturesque Eaton Canyon Falls, a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. The nature center provides educational exhibits about local wildlife and plants, and offers guided nature walks and junior ranger programs for kids.

This natural escape is perfect for a day of exploration and learning about the local environment. The trails are suitable for all ages, and the scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains make for a delightful family outing.

Introduce your family to the world of theater at the Pasadena Playhouse. This historic venue offers a range of productions, including family-friendly shows that cater to younger audiences. The Playhouse's youth programs and workshops provide opportunities for children to engage with the performing arts, both on and off the stage.

Attending a performance here is a wonderful way for families to bond over the magic of live theater, and the varied programming ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Step back in time with a visit to The Gamble House, a stunning example of American Arts and Crafts architecture. This historic home offers guided tours that provide insight into its design and history. The tours are engaging for older children and teenagers, highlighting the craftsmanship and artistry of the early 20th century.

Special events and family tours make The Gamble House accessible and interesting for younger visitors as well. Exploring this architectural gem offers a unique educational experience for the entire family.

For families fascinated by space and science, a tour of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is an unforgettable experience. Located near Pasadena, JPL offers public tours that include a look at mission control, the Spacecraft Assembly Facility, and other key areas where groundbreaking space research and exploration take place.

These tours provide an in-depth understanding of space missions and the technology behind them, inspiring future scientists and engineers. Note that reservations are required and tours can fill up quickly, so planning ahead is essential.

No visit to Pasadena would be complete without mentioning the iconic Rose Bowl. While best known for the annual New Year's Day football game, the Rose Bowl Stadium also hosts a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year. The monthly Rose Bowl Flea Market is a popular attraction, offering a vast array of antiques, collectibles, and unique finds.

Additionally, the stadium grounds include a family-friendly 3.3-mile loop for walking or biking, with scenic views and ample space for picnics. Special events, such as outdoor concerts and movie nights, provide entertainment options that the whole family can enjoy.

Pasadena, CA, is a city rich with diverse and engaging activities that cater to families. From the educational and interactive exhibits at Kidspace Children's Museum to the serene beauty of Descanso Gardens and the cultural offerings at the Pasadena Playhouse, there is no shortage of options for a fun-filled family day out. Whether exploring nature, enjoying the arts, or diving into local history, Pasadena provides a wealth of opportunities to create lasting family memories.

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_{*Header photo courtesy of Kidspace Museum}