A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Pasadena for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boston or Pasadena?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and Pasadena. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Pasadena

Pasadena is a charming, picturesque, and quaint city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston and Pasadena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Pasadena?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boston than Pasadena. Boston is bigger than Pasadena, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pasadena is more popular for its shopping. Boston is more touristy than Pasadena and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Pasadena is well known for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl.

How is Boston different from Pasadena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pasadena and Boston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Pasadena?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Pasadena offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a good number of museums around town that include kids' museums, art museums, and local museums. Popular museums include the USC Pacific Asia Museum, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Pasadena Museum of History. Many people also enjoy touring the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Theater?

Boston is notable for its shows and theatre. However, Pasadena is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Pasadena is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Pasadena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Pasadena can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Pasadena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local restaurants feature southern California cuisine as well as international flavors. Dishes often use local ingredients that are fresh and seasonal. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are excellent in both Boston and Pasadena.

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Pasadena has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Much of the nightlife scene is concentrated around Old Pasadena. You'll find clubs, bars, and lounges that begin the evening with Happy Hours and then become more party-focused as the evening progresses.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Music?

Boston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Pasadena is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Pasadena is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Beaches?

Boston is a moderate city for the beach. However, Pasadena is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Pasadena is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Pasadena does not have a historic old town.

Boston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Pasadena does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Pasadena?

Pasadena is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Pasadena is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Old Pasadena is where you'll find some of the best shopping. It's filled with a charming atmosphere and interesting boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Christmas?

Boston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Pasadena does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Pasadena does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Pasadena does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Boston offer plenty to see during the holidays. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Pasadena does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Families?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Pasadena is a family-friendly city. There are a number of kid-friendly museums around town including Kidspace Children's Museum. There are also nature centers, playgrounds, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Couples?

Boston and Pasadena both notable destinations for a couple.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Pasadena makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a bit of a European vibe and plenty of outdoor activities. Fine dining and interesting shopping make this a nice weekend destination.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a good destination for backpackers. However, Pasadena is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Pasadena is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Students?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Pasadena is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Pasadena is not popular with students.

Is Boston or Pasadena Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Boston is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Pasadena has some public transit options. Buses and light rail offer local transit and connect the city to nearby Los Angeles.

Is Boston or Pasadena a more walkable city?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Pasadena is somewhat walkable. Most people head to Old Pasadena, which is the most concentrated and walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Pasadena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pasadena or Boston?

How long in Boston or Pasadena?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Pasadena. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Pasadena. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pasadena.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Pasadena. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boston than Pasadena. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boston that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Pasadena if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Boston.

One day in Boston or Pasadena?

Boston is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pasadena. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Pasadena?

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Pasadena is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Pasadena?

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pasadena. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Pasadena?

Boston is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Pasadena. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Pasadena, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Pasadena much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pasadena would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pasadena and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Pasadena.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boston Expensive? and Is Pasadena Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Boston or Pasadena?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pasadena. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Pasadena, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Boston or Pasadena?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Boston or Pasadena in the Summer?

Both Pasadena and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pasadena this time of year.

In July, Boston is generally around the same temperature as Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 73°F (23°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, Boston usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boston or Pasadena in the Autumn?

Both Pasadena and Boston during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pasadena for the shopping scene.

Boston is much colder than Pasadena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Pasadena fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in October than Pasadena. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Pasadena in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Pasadena. Many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Pasadena in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. In the winter, Boston is much colder than Pasadena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Pasadena averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In January, Boston usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Boston or Pasadena in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boston as well as Pasadena. Many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Boston is generally much colder than Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in April than Pasadena. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pasadena and Boston