Discover Pasadena's Best Family-Friendly Secrets!
Secret Los Angeles
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms are turning heads from San Francisco to New York, and we’re lucky to have two of them available to visit for free right here in LA. Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away: An enclosed mirror-lined space filled with flashing LED lights that visitors physically step into. Since guests enter the space one group at a time, The Broad requires that you make a timed reservation to foster the best possible experience. Find it on the first floor of The Broad. Longing for Eternity: A mirrored chamber filled with pulsating neon lights that guests peer into one by one. There’s no need to make a reservation for this, so just join the line on the third floor. 🎟️ Tickets: Free to visit at The Broad, but a reservation is required for Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away. 🗓️ Dates: Ongoing
Time Out LA
Old Pasadena Thanks to plenty of trees, a half-dozen Metro stops and relatively dense clusters of businesses, Pasadena as a whole is pretty walkable. But Old Pasadena, the San Gabriel Valley city’s historic downtown area, just might be the most pedestrian-friendly spot in the county. The shops along Colorado Boulevard are largely the same ones you’d find in an upscale mall, but they’re certainly more pleasant to peruse when housed inside remarkably well-preserved old buildings, some of which date back to the late 1800s. Even the alleyways and courtyards here—lined in brick or cobblestone and dotted with restaurants and pubs—are worth a detour. On parallel roads, Union Street has become a proper culinary destination in the last few years thanks to spots like Union and Perle, as has Green Street, a tree tunnel of a road home to Agnes and Copa Vida. You’ll find a bunch of museums on the district’s periphery: the excellent Norton Simon, with its impressive collection of Old Masters and French impressionists; a centuries-spanning mix of traditional and contemporary works at the Pacific Asia Museum; and, about a mile outside of the area, the Arts and Crafts masterpiece Gamble House. Make sure to pass by the Moorish-meets-Victorian Castle Green and walk underneath the massive dome of Pasadena City Hall.
Secret Los Angeles
14. The Art of Movie Making: The Godfather The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures presents an array objects and artifacts from The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather Part II (1974), an opportunity for film buffs to learn about the making of one of Hollywood’s most storied film franchises. See costumes, props, scripts, and equipment, many of which have never been presented to the public, and all of which provide valuable insight to the process of filmmaking in the ’70s. 🎟️ Tickets: Viewable with general admission tickets to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Jan. 5, 2025
Kathy
MUN PATIO is my fav K-BBQ spot in Koreatown, and I’m starting to get a little worried that this place is getting way too popular these days😂💞 ✻ Pork Shoulder, Pork Jowl, Pork Belly with Fried Rice ⤷I absolutely love their thick and juicy pork😣👍 They also provide ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce), wine salt, and wasabi for pairing with the meat. We ended the meal with fried rice and added cheese because who doesn’t love cheese?💛 ✻ Cold Radish & Cucumber Buckwheat Noodles ⤷Not in the video, but PLEASE try this and thank me later❤️🔥 Bursting with flavors, it pairs amazingly with the meat. I’m not a huge fan of cold noodles, but this one really hits the spot 🫶 ✔️My two friends and I were so stuffed after the meal that we couldn’t even finish the fried rice😂 ✔️ Every time I recommend this place to my friends, I always receive positive feedback :) So I hope y’all will try it out too when you’re in the area❣️
Los Angeles4 everybody
Exciting news! Just discovered a hidden gem – Trail Canyon in LA County! 🌟 It’s not your average hiking spot; here, you can immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty for free. 🌲 Imagine trekking through rugged canyons, listening to the gentle whispers of the wind, and feeling the thrill of conquering challenging terrain. 💧 It’s an adventurer’s paradise! Can’t wait to explore this scenic trail with you! 🤩
Secret Los Angeles
Eyes on the Road: Art of the Automotive Landscape In the early 20th century, automotive designs and highway systems reached a level of standardization that most drivers take for granted these days. In this exhibition, The Petersen Museum presents a collection of oft-overlooked automobiles designed by visual artists. These weird and wonderful designs include the spaceship-like 1955 Chrysler Ghia Gilda; the three-wheeled 1933 Dymaxion, which looks like a submarine; and the 1956 American Motors Astra-Gnome with a cartoonish clear bubble body. 🎟️ Tickets: Eyes on the Road is viewable with general admission tickets to the Petersen Museum. 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Nov 2024
Los Angeles magazine
Beyond Fest Horror, Sci-Fi and "genre" film have the ultimate showcase at this popular cinema fest, which this year, includes 82 features and 16 world premieres. This 12th edition presented by Neon, takes place at the Egyptian Theatre, Aero Theatre, Los Feliz 3, and Vista Theatre and features appearances by big names, including Al Pacino during a Scarface screening, Kiyoshi Kurosawa after a 7-film retrospective, plus Sam Raimi, Tarsem Singh, Kyle MacLachlan, Sarah Paulson, Ron Perlman, and Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock for the 30th Anniversary Speed. Other anticipated movies and stars: Gary Dauberman’s take on Stephen King’s Salem's Lot, Brady Corbet's The Brutalist (in 70mm); the 35mm debut of Sean Baker's Anora (with star Mikey Madison); Marielle Heller’s Nightbitch starring starring Amy Adams, Steven Soderbergh’s Presence; Barry Keoghan and Christopher Abbott’s Bring Them Down and Damien Leone’s Terrifier 3 (read our interview with the latter here next week). Sept. 26-Oct. 9
See also
Top Anonymous Recommendations in Fairfax - Discover Trending Suggestions & Local Reviews Near LA
Time Out LA
Founders Ale House What: $6 well drinks, $7 cocktails, $5 wines, $6 beers; $7–10 bar bites; $3.50 sliders, taquitos and meatballs When: Mon–Thu 4–7pm, 10pm–close; Fri 3–7pm, 10pm–close; Sat, Sun 1–7pm, 10pm–close Why we love it: Filled to the brim every weekend, this longtime Pico-Robertson bar offers casual neighborhod pub atmosphere (and prices). Board games, dart boards and arcade fun upstairs keep locals occupied most evenings and weekends, but Founders Ale House turns into a party on game nights, when the bar breaks out a large-scale projector. Founders Ale House’s newer happy hour menu bucks the trend of rising prices with a selection of affordable bites priced by the item, including $3.50 sliders with vegan options, a $10 smashburger and $7 nachos.
Food Baby
Used jetlag to our advantage today to line up before the opening of FONDRY, easily one of the best bakeries in LA, including some of the very best croissants. 👶🏽🥐 👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽👌🏽 They proudly introduce two new offerings: - Brown Butter Financier 🧈 - The Hazelnut 🌰 Enjoy 😋
Secret NYC
Reframing Dioramas: The Art of Preserving Wilderness The Natural History Museum is famous for its life-size diorama halls, displaying over 75 different habitats representing global ecosystems including the Arctic tundra, the jungles of Tanzania, and the Great Plains of North America. To honor the 100th anniversary of the dioramas, the NHM will reopen a diorama hall that has been closed for decades. See newly restored dioramas that showcase this unique union of art and science. 🎟️ Tickets: Reframing Dioramas is viewable with general admission tickets to the Natural History Museum. 🗓️ Dates: Sept. 15, 2024 – Sept. 15, 2025
Los Angeles Fun Events
Hiking + Speed Dating - Baldwin Hills (Ages 30+) Join our group hike where we will rotate hikers through a series of 1:1 speed dates on the trail! Date: Saturday, July 6th Time: 10 AM: Meet at Boneyard Dog Park on Duquesne for a warm welcome and check-in to speed dating program (no downloads required!, but you will need a smartphone!) 10:30 AM: We will explain how we will be using the speed dating program and introduce you to your first date before we begin the hike. - 10:35AM - 1:30PM : Our hike will commence, as we climb to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, you will be paired 1:1 for dates, along with breaks and mixing/mingling.
Secret Los Angeles
Expansive Presentation of Andy Warhol The Broad presents a showcase of work by legendary American artist Andy Warhol, who is best known as a leading influence in the pop art genre. This installation takes the viewer through 26 of Warhol’s works, eleven of which are on view for the first time at The Broad. The major artwork to seek out is Liz [Early Colored Liz], which is a silkscreened image of Elizabeth Taylor from 1963. Other items on display include Warhol’s iconic Campbell’s Soup Can (Clam Chowder – Manhattan Style) [Ferus Type] and 40 Gold Marilyns. 🎟️ Tickets: Expansive Presentation of Andy Warhol is free to visit at The Broad. 🗓️ Dates: Ongoing Whether you’re an art lover, hosting visitors, or just want to change up your weekend plans, we love the Los Angeles exhibitions for a chance to experience the city’s thriving arts and culture scene.
Kathy
If you’re on a mission to find an aesthetic coffee shop that actually serves quality coffee, then you should put LOQUAT COFFEE on your list💛🖤 ✔️I absolutely LOVE their mascarpone🖤 Not only does the drink has the perfect amount of sweetness, the cream also doesn’t overpower the flavor of espresso✨ ✔️My friend got the iced ceremonial matcha and she also enjoyed her drink 🍵 ✔️Street parking only but I never had trouble finding one 🚙
Secret Los Angeles
Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms are turning heads from San Francisco to New York, and we’re lucky to have two of them available to visit for free right here in LA. Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away: An enclosed mirror-lined space filled with flashing LED lights that visitors physically step into. Since guests enter the space one group at a time, The Broad requires that you make a timed reservation to foster the best possible experience. Find it on the first floor of The Broad. Longing for Eternity: A mirrored chamber filled with pulsating neon lights that guests peer into one by one. There’s no need to make a reservation for this, so just join the line on the third floor. 🎟️ Tickets: Free to visit at The Broad, but a reservation is required for Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away. 🗓️ Dates: Ongoing
See alsoSocializing in Fairfax Near LA: Local Community Interactions & Anonymous Discussions
Secret Los Angeles
The Art of Movie Making: The Godfather The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures presents an array objects and artifacts from The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather Part II (1974), an opportunity for film buffs to learn about the making of one of Hollywood’s most storied film franchises. See costumes, props, scripts, and equipment, many of which have never been presented to the public, and all of which provide valuable insight to the process of filmmaking in the ’70s. 🗓️ Dates: On view now through Jan. 5, 2025
Secret Los Angeles
Best in Low This new Petersen Museum exhibition takes us through the craft of lowrider culture, including paint, metal finishings, interiors, and hydraulics. Now that cruising bans have been lifted in California, lowriders are rolling into a new era on local streets. Learn all about the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating these immaculate vehicles. 🎟️ Tickets: Best in Low is viewable with general admission tickets to the Petersen Museum 🗓️ Dates: Open now through April 2025
Time Out LA
Nossa Caipirinha Bar What: $10–11 cocktails and wines, $5–8 beers, discounted food items When: Daily 4–6pm Why we love it: After a short stint as a sit-down restaurant, this Brazilian eatery in Los Feliz flipped into a neighborhood watering hole inspired by the country’s botecos. Now, Nossa Caipirinha Bar offers five well-balanced renditions of its namesake drink—Brazil’s national cocktail—as well as a host of traditional bar snacks like cheese bread and coxinhas (chicken and paprika croquettes). At happy hour, snack on discounted bites like $9 chicken heart skewers, $14 fried calamari and $13 coxinhas.
Time Out LA
Maple Block Meat Co. Barbecue What: $9 five-piece wings, $10–12 nachos, $10 sliders, BOGO drinks When: Mon 5–9pm, Tue–Fri 5–6pm Why we love it: Meat butchered on premise, brisket smoked over peach wood logs, a pitmaster from Texas—this Culver City barbecue joint checks all the right boxes, including an excellent happy hour menu. Steeply discounted bar bites are available before 6pm, including nachos topped with your choice of smoked brisket or pork belly, a set of smashburger sliders and smoky, juicy wings with house white barbecue sauce or honey Sriracha. Best of all, it's available all night on Mondays. For drinks, there's a buy-one-get-one free deal on nearly all drinks, which you can also get the last hour of service any day of the week. (Some top shelf label exceptions do apply.)
Secret Los Angeles
Fulfill your cravings at Grand Central Market! Nothing beats soaking up the city vibes like going out to eat, right? While Los Angeles offers dining options for every taste, from Michelin-starred restaurants to food trucks, you don’t need to explore the whole city to find them. At Grand Central Market, you’ll find countless affordable choices, from seafood to tacos. Almost every one of the more than 35 vendors has menu items priced below $15, making it one of the best cheap activities in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that the place can be packed, so it’s best to go early and be patient.
Los Angeles4 everybody
Enchant LA! Sometimes pretty places aren’t equally tasty but I would say this place has both down. I got to dress and have some sweet quality time over good korean flavors (kim chi pasta & bulgogi quesadillas were really good!) 🌸Garden Style Brunch&Bar🌸 ☕Modern Asian Fusion🥂Wine🍸Cocktail Kept things light w a citrus shrimp salad but then indulged in other great menu items. We went for lunch but it’s good for dinner dates tooooo 🤓
Secret Los Angeles
Explore your creativity at Remainders! This second-hand, sustainable craft store in Pasadena offers a wide range of items for your next craft adventure, whether solo or with friends. From yarn and fabric to picture frames, you’ll find everything at very affordable prices. The store is dedicated to giving donated items a second life, making art more accessible to everyone. In addition to shopping, you can also join classes and workshops on sewing, crochet, and embroidery. It’s a perfect budget-friendly plan for your next weekend!
See alsoNightlife in Fairfax near LA: Discover Local Hotspots, Trending Bars & Rooftop Fun
Kathy
Ramen Akira is a newly opened modern ramen spot in Koreatown that brings amazing flavors in a bowl 🍜 ✔️The server recommended the yuzu ramen, and I decided to be adventurous and try it. I was a bit worried it would be too citrusy, but the broth was super creamy with a subtle hint of yuzu 🍊 I definitely recommend trying it if you want to experience something different! :) ✔️I wanted to eat outside cause of their super cute patio, but it was way too hot 😭 I’ll be definitely back to enjoy the patio 👀🌸
Secret Los Angeles
Hike your way up to the Hollywood Sign Whether you’re looking for a way to work out, explore nature, or simply enjoy stunning sunset views over the city, a quick hike to the Hollywood Sign is always a great idea. If you’re already familiar with the area or prefer to make plans on your own, just lace up your sneakers and head up there, which is free. If you enjoy socializing with others and you’re new in town, you might want to book a ticket to join a group hike.
megan li
I was on a coffee streak during this trip. Apparently Maru has the best matcha in LA? I didn’t get to try it 🤣 their barista recommended the cream top, and it was delicious. I’d already had three cups of coffee by this point so the tiny cup was the perfect size. Such a cute space and I’ll definitely try their matcha next time 🤩
Los Angeles4 everybody
The nations largest hawker stall = Smorgasburg LA! I like to come here bc it’s always summer vibes and you get all of LA’s most viral food trucks in one place. Gives a major platform to small businesses and gives me a unique experience every time. I come for food, beverages, local artistry and sun. Bring water and hats for sun protection bc it’s a large parking lot and all the asphalt makes it hot there ☀️ 🧢 🧴 💦
Happening in DTLA
We are excited to highlight the vendors that will be located at Artisan Alley this upcoming Art Night! Explore some amazing vendors featuring a variety of goods to shop from 🎨🌮☕️ We look forward to seeing you there! 📍Located at 4th and Main Artisan Alley 🗓️September 5 ⏰6-10 PM
Kathy
The art room DTLA is a hidden gem located in DTLA where you can enjoy some artworks while sipping on amazing cocktails. 🖼️🍸 ⤷ I got the coconut and my friend got Margo’s, and we both loved our drinks 💗 If you’re looking for a summer drink, I highly recommend the Fridas Coconut 🥥 ✔️ They have many pieces of artwork hanging around, so be sure to check them out while enjoying your drinks 👀✨ ✔️ I think their menu is fairly priced considering their location and that tax is included in all menu prices 👍
Rachael Brandon
The most eye-catching and unique #icecream spot I’ve ever seen: AWAN Awan serves up non-dairy ice creams made from a coconut base and uses Indonesian ingredients. This was one of the creamiest non-dairy ice creams I’ve ever tried and you’re truly transported to another world with the aesthetic cavernous ambiance! I couldn’t resist a saffron pistachio date rose water and the Gula Jawa with unrefined Indonesian coconut palm sugar, both of which were delicious! 🥥
See alsoExperience Fairfax: Top Local and Trending Insights near LA
Los Angeles4 everybody
Here’s a reminder to go dancing in LA, it’s an experience. SIP Boba Lounge! Why? Bc people here are talented. Like, just got off the stage performing with Beyoncé talented and show up to dance floors for a night out just like everyone else. It always end up being such an impromptu show, all levels all talents and random fun for everyone!
Secret Los Angeles
Have a martini at Musso & Frank Cinephiles, this one’s for you. Pretend it’s the 1920s and take your date out for a romantic night of Old Hollywood charm at the legendary Musso & Frank. Known as the oldest restaurant in Hollywood and often referred to as the “genesis of Hollywood,” this iconic steakhouse in LA, feels like you’ve stepped back into a bygone era. The restaurant was known as the go-to spot for the Hollywood elite, even boasting a secret back room for industry insiders. It’s been memorialized in countless films, most notably Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Cozy up in one of the old-school wooden booths and order their world-famous martini for a night to remember.
Discover Family-Friendly Hidden Gems in Pasadena Near LA
Explore the Enchanted Gardens at Arlington Garden
If you're searching for some peace and relaxation, Arlington Garden provides a family-friendly oasis right in Pasadena. This public garden is one of the local family-friendly spots that appeals to children and adults alike. With its themed sections like the Butterfly Garden and the Mediterranean Garden, families can explore its winding paths and enjoy a leisurely day outdoors. It's also a great spot for some quality family time, offering shaded areas with benches where you can rest and take in the beautiful surroundings.
Fun and Learning at Kidspace Children's Museum
Located near the Rose Bowl, Kidspace Children's Museum is a favorite among local parents. It's a treasure trove of interactive exhibits that engage kids of all ages. Unlike more traditional museums, Kidspace focuses on hands-on learning—perfect for kids who like to explore and interact. It includes outdoor climbing structures, water play areas, and even a nature garden. If you're looking for trending family activities, this museum continually introduces new exhibits and events.
Family Picnics and Play at Brookside Park
Brookside Park is another must-visit for families in Pasadena. Adjacent to the Rose Bowl, this expansive park has something for everyone. Playgrounds, picnic areas, and grassy fields make it ideal for family outings. You can set up a picnic near the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, where children can splash in the kids’ pool. Additionally, the Jackie Robinson Field is a historic site perfect for teaching kids about local heroes and sports legends. Brookside Park is a staple in community gatherings, making it an insightful stop for those wanting to experience local family-friendly activities.
Cultural Exploration at The Norton Simon Museum
For families who appreciate art and culture, The Norton Simon Museum offers an enriching experience. While art museums might seem too sophisticated for young children, this museum could pleasantly surprise you. The sculpture garden is a standout area where kids can roam freely, soaking in the outdoor art installations. Inside, the museum often hosts family art-making workshops where children can channel their creativity. It’s a fantastic way to introduce the younger generation to the world of art and culture.
Hidden Trails at Eaton Canyon Natural Area
For families that love outdoor adventure, Eaton Canyon Natural Area provides the perfect setting. Known for its family-friendly hiking trails, Eaton Canyon offers an opportunity to connect with nature without straying too far from the city. The trails are relatively easy, making them suitable for children of varying ages. The highlight is the waterfall at the end of the main trail, which serves as a rewarding destination for young hikers. This spot epitomizes the spirit of exploration and offers ample opportunities for family bonding.
Community Relaxation at Victory Park
Another gem in Pasadena is Victory Park. Known for its community vibe, the park features expansive lawns, sports fields, and walking paths. Every Saturday, the Pasadena Farmers Market sets up here, providing a great opportunity for families to enjoy fresh produce and local goods. Kids can relish the playground while parents explore the market offerings. Victory Park is a hub of local family-friendly spots, perfect for those seeking a more community-centered experience.
