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

Should you visit Key West or Pasadena?

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

Should I visit Key West or Pasadena? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a eclectic, bustling, and active town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Pasadena

Pasadena is a picturesque, quaint, and charming city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Pasadena travel costs.

Key West and Pasadena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Pasadena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Pasadena are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pasadena is known for its museums and attractions and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Pasadena and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also home to Duval Street. Pasadena is popular for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl.

How is Key West different from Pasadena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Pasadena?

Pasadena is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Key West and Pasadena.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Pasadena has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Key West or Pasadena Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Key West and Pasadena.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Pasadena Better for Resorts?

Key West is notable for its resorts. However, Pasadena is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Key West to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Pasadena is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Pasadena Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pasadena is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Pasadena is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Pasadena Better for Beaches?

Key West is notable for the beach. However, Pasadena is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Pasadena is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Pasadena Better for its Old Town?

Key West is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Pasadena does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Pasadena does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Pasadena?

Pasadena is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Pasadena is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Old Pasadena is where you'll find some of the best shopping. It's filled with a charming atmosphere and interesting boutiques.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Pasadena More Beautiful?

Key West is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Pasadena is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Pasadena is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Pasadena Better for Families?

Key West 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.

Key West is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Pasadena is a family-friendly town. 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 Key West or Pasadena Better for Couples?

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

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Pasadena Better for Students?

Key West is notable for students. However, Pasadena is not popular with students.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Pasadena is not popular with students.

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

Pasadena is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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 Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Pasadena a more walkable city?

Key West and Pasadena both are good when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Pasadena is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Pasadena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pasadena or Key West?

How long in Key West or Pasadena?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Pasadena. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Pasadena. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pasadena.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Pasadena?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. 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.

The city of Pasadena offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Pasadena?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pasadena, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Pasadena?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pasadena 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 Key West or Pasadena?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Pasadena is a great place to explore. 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.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Pasadena?

Pasadena has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Pasadena in the Summer?

Both Pasadena and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pasadena because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is a little warmer than Pasadena. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Pasadena averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In July, Key West usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Pasadena in the Autumn?

Both Pasadena and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Pasadena this time of year.

In October, Key West is generally a little warmer than Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Pasadena. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Key West or Pasadena in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Pasadena. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pasadena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Key West is much warmer than Pasadena in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Pasadena fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Pasadena. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Pasadena in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Pasadena. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Pasadena. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Pasadena averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Key West usually gets more rain in April than Pasadena. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Pasadena and Key West