A Travel Price Comparison for California Pasadena vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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 Pasadena and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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.

Pasadena

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Pasadena and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pasadena than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pasadena is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Pasadena is well known for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl. Also, Pasadena is famous for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Pasadena different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Pasadena is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pasadena. 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.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Pasadena is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Pasadena makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Pasadena is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Pasadena offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Pasadena is not a hiking destination.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Pasadena is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Pasadena is a well-known place for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Pasadena and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are notable family-friendly destinations.

Pasadena is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly city. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is notable for couples. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

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 Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is notable for backpackers. However, Pasadena is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular park for backpackers and budget travelers. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

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 Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Pasadena is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Pasadena
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Pasadena is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Pasadena Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Pasadena?

How long in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pasadena and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In our opinion, Pasadena has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pasadena than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Pasadena, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pasadena than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Pasadena.


  • How many days in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pasadena 1-3 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Pasadena, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Pasadena, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Pasadena, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this picturesque destination offers. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Pasadena. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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.


A week in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Pasadena is a popular choice for travelers. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Pasadena?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pasadena is $62, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126. 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 Pasadena and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pasadena $25
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pasadena $50
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Pasadena and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? 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 Pasadena


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


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: Pasadena Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pasadena $21
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Pasadena 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
    Pasadena $19
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30
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.
    Pasadena -
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Pasadena

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

  • Haunted Walking Tour: $33
  • Old Pasadena Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49
  • LA: East Side Guided Film Locations Tour: $350

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pasadena -
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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



When is the best time to visit Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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 Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Summer?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Pasadena are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Pasadena for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pasadena is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pasadena in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 83°F (29°C).

In July, Pasadena usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Pasadena gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pasadena 73°F (23°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Pasadena during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Pasadena because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

In October, Pasadena is generally around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Pasadena average around 68°F (20°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

Pasadena usually gets less rain in October than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Pasadena gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pasadena 68°F (20°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

Should I visit Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pasadena and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pasadena this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pasadena is much warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Pasadena averages around 56°F (13°C) in January, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Pasadena usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Pasadena gets 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pasadena 56°F (13°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

Should I visit Pasadena or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pasadena as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Additionally, many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pasadena is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pasadena in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 60°F (16°C).

Pasadena usually gets less rain in April than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Pasadena gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pasadena 62°F (17°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Pasadena

Pasadena Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 56°F (13°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 58°F (14°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 69°F (20°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (0 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 74°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 62°F (16°C) 1.6 inches (42 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


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