USA will begin their FIFA World Cup 26 campaign as hosts in Los Angeles and will remain on Pasadena home soil for all three group games.
Pasadena is a fantastic location for family-friendly hikes and activities during the FIFA World Cup 2026. Here are some suggestions to help families make the most of their stay in the area:
Family-Friendly Hikes in Pasadena
Eaton Canyon Natural Area
Why It’s Great for Families: Eaton Canyon offers an easy, flat hike that’s perfect for kids, leading to a small waterfall. It’s just a short drive from Pasadena and has scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Adventure Tip: Take the littles on a waterfall adventure, offering nature facts about local wildlife and safe tips for kids crossing streams.
Descanso Gardens (La Cañada Flintridge)
Why It’s Great for Families: Though not a traditional hike, Descanso Gardens offers beautifully maintained trails and a kid-friendly nature walk. There’s even a small train ride for young children, which families will love.
Adventure Tip: Lead kids on a scavenger hunt through the gardens, finding hidden treasures like colorful flowers, sculptures, and maybe even a magical fairy garden.
Hahamongna Watershed Park
Why It’s Great for Families: This park offers easy trails, lots of shade, and space to run around or have a picnic. Families can enjoy bird watching and scenic views of the nearby reservoir.
Adventure Tip: Guide families to the disc golf course or the picnic areas, sharing tips for spotting birds and wildlife along the trails.
Fun Family Activities in Pasadena
Kidspace Children’s Museum
Why It’s Great for Families: This interactive museum has a range of exhibits and outdoor play areas designed specifically for children. Families can explore science, art, and nature through hands-on learning.
Adventure Tip: Help kids discover exhibits like the Physics Forest, where they can try their hand at fun experiments or explore the Butterfly Gardens for some quiet downtime between games.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Why It’s Great for Families: Though it’s known for its art and literary collections, the Huntington has vast gardens that are perfect for wandering and exploring. The Children’s Garden is designed with little ones in mind, featuring interactive water elements and fun pathways.
Adventure Tip: Create a special garden adventure map for the littles, where they visit the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden, stopping to enjoy picnic spots along the way.
Outdoor Activities and Exploration
Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Area
Why It’s Great for Families: The Rose Bowl area offers multiple activities, including a Family Fun Zone during major events and a Kids’ Space. Families can also walk or bike the scenic loop around the stadium, or visit the Rose Bowl Aquatic Center for some poolside fun.
Adventure Tip: Navigate the Rose Bowl area, guiding them to the best kid-friendly spots for games, food, and relaxation. Mo can offer some post-game stretching or fitness tips by the Aquatic Center!
Brookside Park
Why It’s Great for Families: Right next to the Rose Bowl, this park has an extensive playground, picnic areas, and lots of green space for children to run around and play. Families can enjoy a post-hike picnic or spend an afternoon at the park’s splash pads.
Adventure Tip: Organize a family-friendly field day at Brookside Park, with activities like soccer, sack races, and Frisbee.
Day Trips and Nearby Adventures
Mount Wilson Trail
Why It’s Great for Families: For families with older kids or those looking for a more adventurous hike, Mount Wilson Trail offers sweeping views of the San Gabriel Valley. The trail is long but can be done in sections, making it flexible for families.
Adventure Tip: Tackle the first portion of the trail, teaching kids about local plants and geology as they climb toward the lookout point.
Arroyo Seco Park
Why It’s Great for Families: This park offers bike trails, picnic areas, and access to gentle hiking trails that are easy enough for little ones. Families can enjoy the lush scenery and explore the historic Arroyo Seco Bridge.
Adventure Tip: Lead a bike adventure along the scenic bike path, stopping for family picnics and photo opportunities at the bridges.
These hikes and activities in Pasadena can offer a fantastic mix of adventure, relaxation, and education for families attending the FIFA World Cup 2026.