If you are looking for AAA 5-star lodgings, stay in the Oak Knoll-area of Pasadena. Check into the Langham Huntington, a historic hotel built in 1906 with mountain views. While here, treat yourself to a day at the on-site spa, which is open following a massive refurbishment. Its on-site restaurant, The Dining Room, offers Michelin-rated fine dining. Luxury room amenities include Frette bedding, an Italian marble bathroom and a fully stocked honor bar. Check out the bungalow-style mansions for an architectural sightseeing treat.
The neighborhood of Old Town Pasadena is one of the city's best areas for shopping and walking. Although it was plagued with urban decay for many years, it has turned around in the last decades and is now a bustling commercial hub. Make reservations at the Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Pasadena/Old Town. The hotel offers the typical amenities along with plush bedding and in-room tea-making facilities. Starbucks coffee is available on-site. At night, stroll over to the Levitt Pavilion in Pasadena Memorial Park for a free concert.
If you are in town for a conference, show or seminar at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, you will want to stay at a hotel within walking distance. The Hilton Pasadena is located just two blocks from the auditorium. East-facing rooms offer views of the San Gabriel Mountains. Grab a bite to eat at Trevos Restaurant located inside the hotel. Amenities include striped sheets with a down comforter, down pillows and Hilton-exclusive Crabtree & Evelyn toiletries.
If you are coming to Pasadena on a limited budget, you can find a comfortable room at the Saga Motor Hotel, a pet-friendly place to stay with a bit of Route 66 flair and a year-round heated pool. The Super 8 Hotel has a pool and some of the best rates in town within walking distance of the Rose Bowl Parade. Finally, the Vagabond Inn is central to almost any local landmark, including the California Institute of Technology, known locally as Cal Tech, and restaurants such as the Parkway Grill and Green Street.
