Rose Parade & Bowl Game

Question

I’m trying to figure out the best way to get around Pasadena to see it all - the rose parade, the decorating sites, and the bowl game. Walking a few blocks is fine, but walking a few miles is not an option. Should I rent a car? Is Uber an option with the road closures for the event? Has anyone utilized the Metro/Rail system? Thanks

Answer

The Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game in Pasadena are extremely popular events with massive crowds and significant road closures. Driving and parking can be very challenging, so careful planning is essential. For your needs—seeing the parade, visiting decorating sites, and attending the bowl game—there are several transportation options to consider.

Renting a car is generally not recommended for parade day. Streets around the parade route are closed hours in advance, and parking near the parade or stadium is extremely limited and expensive. If you do have a car, expect to park far away and walk a significant distance, which you mentioned you prefer to avoid.

Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services are operational during the parade and game, but pick-up and drop-off zones are heavily regulated. You may face long waits, detours, or difficulty finding a driver due to street closures and high demand. If you plan to use rideshares, study the official Rose Parade and Rose Bowl websites for designated rideshare zones.

The Metro/Rail system is a viable option and can help you avoid traffic and parking headaches. The Metro Gold Line light rail has a stop at Memorial Park, which is about a 15–20 minute walk from the parade route and within reasonable distance to shuttles for the Rose Bowl. Many attendees use Metro combined with shuttles or walking to get around Pasadena efficiently.

Other options include using local shuttle services and buses provided specifically for parade and game days. These are often the easiest way to reach the Rose Bowl from parking areas outside the immediate area or from nearby hotels.

Summary of transportation options:

Walking: Feasible for a few blocks around parade floats and decorating areas, but not ideal for the Rose Bowl unless staying very close.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Works but may involve long waits and requires using official pick-up/drop-off zones due to street closures.
Metro Gold Line: Recommended; get off at Memorial Park or Del Mar station and walk or take shuttles to key sites.
Shuttles and Event Buses: Many hotels, park-and-ride locations, and official venues offer shuttle services directly to the Rose Bowl and parade areas.
Rental Car: Not recommended for parade day unless necessary, due to closures and limited parking.

Tips for managing your day:

Plan to arrive early at the parade route or stadium to secure good viewing spots and avoid last-minute transit stress.
Check the official Rose Parade and Rose Bowl websites for maps of shuttle zones, rideshare locations, and street closures.
If you want to see decorating sites, consider visiting them the day before the parade when streets are open and crowds are lighter.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking even if using public transit or shuttles, as short walks are unavoidable.

In summary, the combination of Metro Gold Line plus official shuttles, or carefully using rideshares within designated zones, is the most efficient way to enjoy the Rose Parade, decorating sites, and the Rose Bowl Game without needing a rental car on event day.

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