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

Should you visit Miami or Pasadena?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Pasadena can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a high energy, glamorous, and exciting beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and beaches.

Pasadena

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

Miami and Pasadena: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Miami or Pasadena?

You'll generally find more things to do in Miami than Pasadena. Miami is bigger than Pasadena, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Pasadena is more popular for its museums. Miami is more touristy than Pasadena and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Pasadena is well known for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl.

How is Miami different from Pasadena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Miami
Pasadena

Pasadena is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Pasadena specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Miami, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Pasadena. 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 Miami or Pasadena Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami or Pasadena Better for Music?

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its music scene. However, Pasadena is not a live music destination.

In Miami you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Pasadena is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or Pasadena Better for Resorts?

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its resorts. However, Pasadena is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Miami for its luxury resorts. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Pasadena is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Pasadena Better for Beaches?

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for the beach. However, Pasadena is not a beach destination.

Miami offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Pasadena is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Pasadena?

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Miami is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Pasadena. Old Pasadena is where you'll find some of the best shopping. It's filled with a charming atmosphere and interesting boutiques.


Is Miami or Pasadena Better for Families?

Miami
Pasadena

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

Miami is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Pasadena is a family-friendly beach 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 Miami or Pasadena Better for Couples?

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is notable for couples. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Miami is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Pasadena is a nice destination for couples. 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 Miami or Pasadena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Pasadena

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

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 Miami or Pasadena Better for Students?

Miami
Pasadena

Miami is a good destination for students. However, Pasadena is not popular with students.

Miami is a good beach city to visit for students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Pasadena is not popular with students.

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

Miami
Pasadena

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Miami and Pasadena.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

While Pasadena offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses and light rail offer local transit and connect the city to nearby Los Angeles.

Is Miami or Pasadena a more walkable city?

Miami
Pasadena

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

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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 Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Pasadena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pasadena or Miami?

How long in Miami or Pasadena?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Miami and Pasadena. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pasadena than in Miami. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pasadena.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami 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 Miami.


  • How many days in Miami or Pasadena? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Pasadena 1-3

One day in Miami or Pasadena?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In Pasadena, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Miami or Pasadena?

Miami is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pasadena. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Pasadena?

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pasadena is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Pasadena. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Miami or Pasadena?

Miami is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Pasadena. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pasadena or Miami?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $206, while the average daily cost in Pasadena is $62. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Miami and Pasadena in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Pasadena $25
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Pasadena $50
Compare Hotels in Miami and Pasadena

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Pasadena? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Miami


Hotels in Pasadena


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Miami Hotel Prices and Pasadena Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Pasadena $21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • Train Transfer to South Florida Cities: $10
  • Miami International Airport: One-Way Transfer to Miami: $24
  • Private Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel or Port of Miami: $35
  • Miami or Ft Lauderdale: Train Transfer to Orlando Airport: $39
  • From Everglades Wildlife Show, Airboat & Bus Transfer: $40
  • Miami Int'l Airport: Private 1-Way Transfer to Miami Port: $48
  • The Ultimate Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show and Transfer: $49
  • From Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show & Bus Transfer: $55
  • Private One Way Transfer: Miami Airport (MIA) to/from Miami: $55
  • Key West Transfer with Hotel Pickup and Upgrades: $60
  • Miami & Key West: One-Way Transfer by Motor Coach Bus: $62
  • Private Transfer in Miami (MIA) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Pasadena?

Prices for flights to both Pasadena and Miami change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Miami $41
    Pasadena $19
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Miami.

  • Little Havana- Family Friendly Walking Food Tour : $52
  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • Wynwood Street Art, Culture, Donuts & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Little Havana Street Food Tour with Enthusiastic Guide: $69
  • Cuban Food Tour Of Little Havana: $70
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Taste of Little Havana Food Tour in Miami with Cuban Street Food: $75
  • Little Havana Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Food Tour of Miami's South Beach: $79
  • South Beach Miami Food & Fun Art Deco Food Tour : $79
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100

Typical Food Prices in Pasadena

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pasadena are as follows:


  • Casual Dinner Out (family of 4)
    $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Pasadena -

Tours and Activities in Miami

Here are a few actual costs in Miami for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Haunted a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour : $6.05
  • Haunted Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $7.33
  • Miami Beach: Self-Guided Walking Tour With Audio Guide: $7.33
  • Sights of Downtown a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Miami: $8.82
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Little Havana: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Miami by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Audio Tour of Downtown, South Beach, and Wynwood: $11
  • Miami Marlins Baseball Game Ticket at loandepot Park: $11
  • Giant Fish Feeding Experience: $12
  • Wynwood Walls Admission Ticket : $12
  • Wynwood Walls Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $13

Tours and Activities in Pasadena

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pasadena are as follows:

  • Old Pasadena Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49
  • LA: East Side Guided Film Locations Tour: $350

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Pasadena -
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Miami Bar Crawl: $25
  • Miami Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Miami Beach Bar Crawl: Art Deco & Neon Lights with Historian: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Miami and Pasadena, we can see that Miami 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 Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami 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 Miami Expensive? and Is Pasadena Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Miami or Pasadena?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Pasadena. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Pasadena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Pasadena. Many visitors come to Miami in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pasadena for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Miami is generally a little warmer than Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Miami usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Pasadena 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Miami or Pasadena in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Miami as well as Pasadena. Most visitors come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Pasadena because of the shopping scene.

Miami is a little warmer than Pasadena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Pasadena fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Miami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Pasadena. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Pasadena 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Miami or Pasadena in the Winter?

Both Pasadena and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Miami because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pasadena this time of year.

In the winter, Miami is a little warmer than Pasadena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Pasadena averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Pasadena. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Pasadena 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Miami or Pasadena in the Spring?

Both Pasadena and Miami during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

In April, Miami is generally a little warmer than Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Pasadena. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Pasadena 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Pasadena and Miami

Miami Pasadena
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (16°C) 1.6 inches (42 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)