Best of Pasadena 2024: Top Spots to Explore

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Descanso Gardens

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A trip to La Cañada’s lush attraction ($15) feels like dropping into a fairytale amid ponds with goslings and turtles, and gardens of unforgettable tulips, camellias, and roses. Mini train rides and seasonal events—including the can’t-miss, holiday-pegged Enchanted Forest of Light, add to the magic. descansogardens.org

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

This San Marino institution has 16 pristinely manicured gardens, from the otherworldly Desert Garden to the arresting Chinese Garden. ($25–$29). Enjoy the recently renovated Rose Garden Tea Room, and check out the abundance of rarities at the art museum and library. huntington.org

Chantry Flats

This easily accessible recreation area in Big Santa Anita Canyon has winning views of the San Gabriel mountains, making it a prime spot for picnics. Visitors can also take nearby trails to Sturtevant Falls. fs.usda.gov

Cherry Canyon

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La Cañada’s “urban rustic” canyon has several trails that are beloved by runners, cyclists, birders, horseback riders, and hikers. Neophytes can enjoy the 3/10-mile-long Sister Cities Friendship Path right beside Descanso Gardens, and maximalists can take the 12-mile City Loop. There are also plenty of other trails of different levels of difficulty. lcftrails.org

Rose Bowl Riders

On six oak-sheltered acres within Hahamongna Watershed Park, this almost 80-year-old social club can accommodate affordable horse-riding dreams. Members ($310 per year) can enroll in jumping classes, challenge themselves in adjudicated shows, and ride trails in the Arroyo Seco and Angeles Forest. rosebowlriders.org

Eaton Canyon

The main trail of this rugged canyon leads to a 40-foot waterfall in the Angeles Forest—a picturesque, roughly three-mile round trip best enjoyed on a less-crowded weekday. For the curious explorer, Eaton’s Nature Center has free exhibits on the surrounding flora and fauna, including terraria with live snakes and lizards. ecnca.org