Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the charming city of Pasadena, California, a place rich in history and modern appeal. Known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage, Pasadena is also an ideal travel destination. From beautiful parks and museums to luxurious shopping centers and unique restaurants, the city offers a variety of attractions. However, one of the most important aspects of any trip is choosing the right place to stay, especially in a city with so many options.
In this blog, I will share how to choose the most suitable hotel in Pasadena. I will provide detailed reviews of several hotels, focusing on their locations, prices, amenities, and performance on booking platforms. I hope this information will help you make an informed decision when planning your stay in Pasadena.
1. Accommodation Features in Pasadena
Pasadena is a city that combines history, culture, and art, offering a wide range of accommodation options. From luxury five-star hotels to budget-friendly options and unique bed-and-breakfasts, there’s something to suit every traveler’s budget. The majority of accommodations are located in and around the downtown area, making it easy to access restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Particularly, the area near Old Pasadena and Caltech (California Institute of Technology) is highly favored by tourists.
2. Accommodation Choices in Pasadena
1. The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, Los Angeles
Location: Situated on the outskirts of Pasadena in a quiet neighborhood near San Marino, The Langham Huntington is a luxurious hotel about 5 kilometers from downtown Pasadena, roughly a 15-minute drive. The hotel is surrounded by expansive gardens and green spaces, making it an ideal retreat.
Amenities: The Langham Huntington offers world-class facilities, including multiple restaurants, a luxury spa, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and more. The rooms are elegantly designed, with some offering beautiful garden or mountain views. Business travelers will appreciate the hotel’s comprehensive meeting facilities and efficient workspaces.
Cost: Room rates typically range from $350 to $500 per night, depending on the season and time of booking. Booking in advance through the hotel’s website or third-party platforms may offer discounts or added perks, such as free breakfast or parking services.
Booking Platforms: You can book directly through the hotel’s website or use third-party platforms like Booking.com or Expedia, which often provide more flexible cancellation policies and exclusive offers.
2. Hyatt Place Pasadena
Location: Hyatt Place Pasadena is located in downtown Pasadena, just a few steps away from Old Pasadena. This mid-range hotel is perfect for tourists, as it’s within walking distance to major shopping areas, restaurants, and transportation hubs.
Amenities: The hotel offers modern facilities, including a 24-hour fitness center, business center, and an outdoor swimming pool. The rooms are spacious, featuring a kitchenette and sofa bed, making it ideal for families or long-term stays. The hotel’s breakfast is highly praised, offering a variety of fresh foods and hot dishes.
Cost: Rates typically range from $150 to $250 per night. For budget-conscious travelers, Hyatt Place offers a comfortable and affordable accommodation option.
Booking Platforms: You can book through Hyatt’s official website, and it is also available on platforms like Booking.com and Hotels.com, which often have promotional deals.
3. Hotel Constance Pasadena
Location: Located in the heart of downtown Pasadena, Hotel Constance Pasadena is close to shopping districts and restaurants, only about a 10-minute walk away. Its central location makes it a popular choice for both tourists and business travelers.
Amenities: This hotel boasts chic design and high-end amenities, including a rooftop swimming pool, fitness center, and a variety of unique restaurants. The rooms feature modern technology and stylish decor, catering to travelers who seek a fashionable and comfortable stay.
Cost: Room rates typically range from $250 to $400 per night, with prices varying depending on the season and booking time. Rates may increase on weekends or during holidays.
Booking Platforms: You can book directly through the hotel’s website, or find it on platforms such as Expedia and Agoda.
4. Courtyard by Marriott Old Pasadena
Location: Courtyard by Marriott Old Pasadena is just a few minutes’ walk from the historic Old Pasadena district, a vibrant area known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife. Its prime location makes it a great choice for tourists who want to explore the city’s highlights.
Amenities: The hotel offers a 24-hour fitness center, a restaurant, meeting rooms, and free Wi-Fi. The rooms feature comfortable beds and work desks, making it a good option for both business and leisure travelers.
Cost: Rates typically range from $150 to $220 per night, offering a mid-range option with good value. It’s ideal for travelers with a moderate budget.
Booking Platforms: You can book through Marriott’s website or platforms like Booking.com. They frequently offer discounts and loyalty points for members.
5. The Westin Pasadena
Location: The Westin Pasadena is located in downtown Pasadena, surrounded by gardens and parks, and is within walking distance to both Old Pasadena and Caltech. Its central location makes it a great choice for families and business travelers alike.
Amenities: The hotel offers a modern fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, and upscale dining options. Its rooms are known for their exceptional comfort, especially the signature Westin Heavenly® Bed. The hotel is also pet-friendly, making it a good choice for those traveling with pets.
Cost: Rates typically range from $200 to $350 per night, which is on the higher end but still offers good value considering its location and amenities.
Booking Platforms: Book directly through Westin’s website or on platforms like Expedia and Booking.com, where prices may vary depending on the season. Early bookings often come with discounts.
3. How to Choose the Right Hotel for Your Stay?
When selecting a hotel, the first step is to assess your needs: Do you want to stay near the business district, shopping area, or a more peaceful suburban location? Additionally, factors such as hotel price, amenities, transport convenience, and guest reviews are important considerations.
- Budget: If you’re on a budget, hotels like Hyatt Place Pasadena offer comfortable accommodations at a more affordable rate. The location is also convenient, with many dining and entertainment options nearby.
- Location: For those coming to Pasadena for shopping and sightseeing, staying in the downtown area is highly recommended. Hotels like Hotel Constance Pasadena are close to Old Pasadena and allow for easy walking access to major attractions.
- Amenities: If you require more luxurious amenities, like a spa, fitness center, or swimming pool, hotels such as The Langham Huntington or The Westin Pasadena would be great choices.
- Guest Reviews: Reading reviews from past guests on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews can provide valuable insights into the hotel’s cleanliness, service quality, and comfort level.
4. Best Booking Platforms
When booking a hotel in Pasadena, using the right platform is crucial. Here are some of the best booking sites:
- Booking.com: Offers a wide variety of hotels and often features real guest reviews, which can help you make a more informed decision.
- Expedia: A comprehensive platform that allows you to book hotels, flights, car rentals, and more, making it convenient for travelers who want to organize everything in one place.
- Hotels.com: Great for frequent travelers as it offers a rewards program where you can earn free nights after multiple bookings.
- Agoda: Particularly popular for travelers from Asia, Agoda often offers exclusive discounts and deals for hotel bookings.
Pasadena is a city full of charm, offering a wide variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly choices. By considering your budget, location preferences, amenities, and guest reviews, you can make an informed decision and choose the best hotel for your needs. I hope that my personal experience and detailed recommendations will help you select the perfect place to stay and enjoy an unforgettable trip to Pasadena.
