11 Free Things To Do In Pasadena

When you're near Los Angeles, but don't want to go to the big city. Also, your wallet doesn't want to join in on the fun.

1. Walk the Streets of Old Town

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Although all of the shops are a temptation to your wallet, you can also have a great time just people watching. From early morning to late night, Colorado Boulevard is always busy.

2. Hike to Eaton Falls

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It's an easy hike to a beautiful waterfall in the mountains. Start early in the day to avoid the hot weather you'll find the perfect little getaway.

3. See a Concert at Levitt Pavilion

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Concerts are Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the summer months. Thursday concerts are usually for the children, but the Levitt brings in concerts of every genre, including Jazz, Americana, and Latin.

4. Walk the Labyrinth in Arlington Garden

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Although it can be easily overlooked, Arlington Garden is a beautiful public garden with many hidden treasures. Follow the paths of the labyrinth, sit and relax on one of the benches, or meditate surrounded by a Mediterranean landscape.

5. Walk a 5K Around the Rose Bowl

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The loop around the Rose Bowl is perfect practice for a 5K. Run, walk, or bike around the stadium and the neighboring golf course. There are also adjourning trails to extend your workout.

6. Go See Pawnee City Hall

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Okay, it might not be Pawnee, but it's the famous city hall used for Parks and Recreation. Walk the hallways, gaze upon the fountain, and just gawk at the sheer beauty of Pasadena City Hall.

7. Read or Attend an Event at a Pasadena Public Library

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The central library in the heart of Pasadena has four floors and numerous nooks and crannies to hide and read. There are nine branch libraries throughout Pasadena, each with their own free programs and events everyday.

8. Peruse a Pasadena Farmers Market

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There are farmers markets almost every day of the week in the Los Angeles area, but Pasadena has a large market every Saturday in Victory Park. Free samples and entertainment await you from 8:30-12:30.

9. Attend a Signing or Event at Vroman's Bookstore

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Vroman's is an independently owned bookstore with two locations in Pasadena. With events such as literary trivia, book clubs, and book signings, there is always something happening and most events are free.

*Book must be purchased at Vroman's to be signed during book signings.

10. Explore Under the Colorado Street Bridge

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Hike the Lower Arroyo and cross the flood channel under the historic Colorado Street Bridge. The trail is surprisingly woodsy for being in the middle of the city, stretching over 22 miles for walkers, hikers, joggers and equestrians to use.

11. See the Turtles and Frogs at Caltech

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California Institute of Technology has a beautiful campus. Spend the day wandering around, taking in the architecture and grounds and make sure to stop at the ponds to see the turtles, frogs, and lilypads.