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Pasadena & The Rose Bowl: Where to Stay and How to Get Around

The Rose Bowl will host football (soccer) knockout rounds and major ceremonies, drawing massive crowds to Pasadena. This guide helps you arrive on time, stay comfortably, and enjoy the foothill charm between matches.

Rose Bowl basics#

• Gates open two hours pre-kickoff. Expect full bag checks and metal detectors.
• The bowl sits in a recessed valley—prepare for an uphill walk when leaving.
• Official shuttles depart from Old Pasadena, Parsons Engineering, and Pasadena City College. Buy shuttle wristbands in advance.
• Weather swings: warm afternoons, cool evenings. Bring layers and sunscreen.

Where to stay#

• Old Pasadena hotels: The Westin, Courtyard, and Residence Inn keep you close to shuttle pickup points and dining.
• Boutique inns: The Langham Huntington (luxury) offers resort amenities; The Pasadena Hotel & Pool blends historic charm with modern comfort.
• Budget options: Best Western Pasadena Royale, Hilton Garden Inn Arcadia, and hotels near the Sierra Madre Villa Metro station offer free parking.
• Split your trip: Combine Pasadena nights with a DTLA stay (see our best areas to stay guide) if you plan back-to-back events at different venues.

Getting there#

• Metro A Line: Ride to Memorial Park Station and walk to shuttle pickup at Parsons. Trains run until at least 1 a.m. on match nights.
• Driving: Pre-purchase parking (Lot H or Brookside Golf Lot) and arrive early—roads close 90 minutes before kickoff.
• Rideshare: Use designated zones on Arroyo Boulevard north of Seco Street—see our rideshare guide for quick reference.
• Bikes & scooters: Pasadena deploys secure racks near Lot I; no riding inside the stadium loop.

Eat & explore between matches#

• Coffee: Copa Vida, Jones Coffee Roasters, and Union Artisan Roasters fuel early arrivals.
• Meals: Grab tacos at King Taco, ramen at RAKKAN, or plant-based plates at Sage Bistro.
• Culture: Visit the Norton Simon Museum, Descanso Gardens, or take an architecture walk through Bungalow Heaven.
• Nightlife: Old Pasadena’s Colorado Boulevard hosts outdoor patios, wine bars, and dessert spots open late during the Games.

FAQs#

Q: How early should I arrive for shuttle departures?
A: Plan to board 90 minutes before kickoff. Shuttles run continuously but queue times spike within an hour of match time.

Q: Can I tailgate in the parking lots?
A: Charcoal grills are prohibited. Gas grills are allowed in select lots—check posted signage and dispose of coals responsibly.