Central Park Pasadena
A beloved urban oasis in Old Pasadena, offering expansive lawns, a playground, and a vibrant community hub for events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Central Park Pasadena
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved urban oasis in Old Pasadena, offering expansive lawns, a playground, and a vibrant community hub for events.
"Great spot for a picnic, walk, or just sitting on a bench to unwind. Definitely a nice place to visit!"
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic on the expansive lawns. :picnic_table:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Utilize nearby garages or metered street parking. Have quarters or the parking app ready. :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sprawling Green Spaces
Main Lawn
Vast open fields perfect for picnics, playing catch, or simply unwinding under shady trees.
Playground Fun
Playground Area
A medium-sized playground offering a fun spot for children to explore and burn energy.
Jackalope Art Fair
Throughout the Park
A vibrant artisan market featuring local handmade goods, food trucks, and a lively community feel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Etiquette & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic on the expansive lawns. :picnic_table:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Utilize nearby garages or metered street parking. Have quarters or the parking app ready. :parking:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Seek shade under the mature trees, especially during warmer California afternoons. :sunwithface:
🎨 Art Fair Fun
Check the Jackalope Art Fair schedule for unique handmade treasures and local artisan finds. :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Bring a blanket and snacks for a delightful picnic on the expansive lawns. :picnic_table:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Utilize nearby garages or metered street parking. Have quarters or the parking app ready. :parking:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Seek shade under the mature trees, especially during warmer California afternoons. :sunwithface:
🎨 Art Fair Fun
Check the Jackalope Art Fair schedule for unique handmade treasures and local artisan finds. :art:
👟 Comfortable Stroll
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the park's walkways and open spaces. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Central Park Pasadena is appreciated for its ample green space, playground, and relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for picnics and casual outings. While some reviews mention concerns about homeless individuals and restroom conditions, many still find it a welcoming and enjoyable park, especially during daytime visits and special events like the Jackalope Art Fair.
"cute BIG park with lots of field space and a medium sized playground. better for a picnic or playing catch than playing."
charisma barriger
"The Central Park in Pasadena is a great spot. I love the open green space, the shady trees, the play ground and the relaxing vibe. It’s perfect for a picnic, walk, or just sitting on a bench to unwind. Definitely a nice place to visit while in the city!"
Carlo R. Carranza
"For being a Pasadena park this place is a disappointment. Restrooms look like something out of south La. All dirty and full of graffiti. Homeless people in large groups almost starting a mini encampment. Grass looks dead and dry most of the park. This place needs an over haul. I get it homeless people have no where to go. But they should at least leave during the day at least try to get a job or offer to volunteer on the park upkeep to earn your stay."
Daniel Olvera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Central Park Pasadena is conveniently located in Old Pasadena. You can reach it by car, with parking available in nearby garages and metered street spots. Public transportation options are also accessible in the Old Pasadena area.
Yes, there are several parking options. Nearby garages and metered street parking are available. Remember to have quarters or use a parking app for street meters.
Old Pasadena, where Central Park is located, is well-served by public transportation. Check local transit schedules for bus routes that stop near the park.
The park generally offers accessible walkways and amenities. Restrooms are available, though some reviews mention their condition.
Use GPS navigation to 'Central Park, Pasadena, CA'. It's a well-known landmark in the Old Pasadena area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Central Park Pasadena is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to visit and enjoy the open spaces.
As a public park, Central Park Pasadena is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary, but it's typically accessible throughout daylight hours.
There are no entrance fees to access Central Park Pasadena. It's a free public amenity for residents and visitors.
Yes, the Jackalope Art Fair held at Central Park Pasadena is free to attend for all visitors. 
While specific leash laws can vary, many public parks allow dogs on leashes. It's always a good idea to check local Pasadena park regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy picnics, play catch on the open lawns, use the playground, or simply relax on a bench. The park also hosts events like the Jackalope Art Fair.
Yes, it has a medium-sized playground that kids enjoy. The open green space is also great for them to run around.
Restrooms are available within the park. Some reviews mention their condition, so manage expectations.
It's described as a cute, big park with a relaxing vibe, offering open green space and shady trees. It's great for picnics and unwinding.
Some reviews mention the presence of homeless individuals, particularly in larger groups. However, many still find the park welcoming and great for daytime visits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the park itself doesn't have permanent food vendors, events like the Jackalope Art Fair often feature food trucks.
Central Park is located in Old Pasadena, which is packed with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. You'll find options for every taste and budget.
Absolutely! Central Park Pasadena is a perfect spot for picnics. Bring your own food and enjoy it on the lawns or at picnic tables.
Yes, the park has picnic tables available for visitors to use.
The Jackalope Art Fair typically includes a variety of food trucks offering diverse culinary options.
📸 📸 Photography
The open green lawns with mature trees offer beautiful natural light for photos. The playground area can also be fun for candid shots.
One user shared a drone video of the park, suggesting it offers scenic aerial views of the green spaces and surrounding area.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, will provide the most flattering light for photography. Midday can be harsh.
Yes, you can take photos of the artisan booths and the general atmosphere of the Jackalope Art Fair.
While not a single iconic landmark, the park's mature trees and expansive lawns provide a picturesque backdrop for various types of photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider bringing a picnic basket filled with their favorite snacks and drinks. The park provides picnic tables, making mealtime easy. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience for families. Remember to check for any local events, like the Jackalope Art Fair, which can add an extra layer of fun and discovery for the whole family.
+1🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Instead of paid attractions, focus on the simple pleasures: a leisurely stroll, people-watching, or enjoying the natural surroundings. If visiting during an event like the Jackalope Art Fair, you can browse the unique artisan goods without pressure to buy, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. Parking in nearby garages or on metered streets is also relatively affordable compared to other city parking options.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Jackalope Art Fair Experience
+6Attending the fair is a fantastic way to support small businesses and discover one-of-a-kind items. It's a family-friendly event with free admission, encouraging a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone. The fair's presence significantly boosts the park's vibrancy, drawing crowds eager to explore the handmade treasures.
+1When planning your visit for the Jackalope Art Fair, be sure to check the specific dates and times as it's not a permanent fixture. It's often held on weekends, typically in the spring, and is a highlight for many visiting Old Pasadena.
+1Park Amenities and Atmosphere
Reviews often highlight the park's suitability for picnics and casual recreation like playing catch. The open lawns are a major draw, offering plenty of room to spread out. While generally well-maintained, some visitors have noted the presence of homeless individuals, though many still find the park welcoming and enjoyable during daylight hours.
For those seeking a tranquil spot to unwind or a place for kids to play, Central Park Pasadena delivers. Its location in Old Pasadena also means it's easily accessible and close to other attractions and dining options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit