A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pasadena vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Pasadena or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver. 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Pasadena travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a friendly, outdoorsy, and scenic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Vancouver travel costs.

Pasadena and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pasadena or Vancouver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Vancouver than Pasadena. Vancouver is bigger than Pasadena, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Vancouver is more touristy than Pasadena and is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. Also, Vancouver is famous for Stanley Park. Pasadena is well known for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl.

How is Pasadena different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Vancouver on the map. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Pasadena and Vancouver can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Dining out in Pasadena is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Pasadena or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are excellent in both Pasadena and Vancouver.

Pasadena has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Vancouver has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Pasadena or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Pasadena is not a hiking destination.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Pasadena is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pasadena or Vancouver?

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

Vancouver is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

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 Pasadena or Vancouver More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Pasadena is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pasadena or Vancouver Better for Families?

Vancouver 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.

Vancouver is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Pasadena is a family-friendly 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 Pasadena or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Vancouver is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is notable for backpackers. However, Pasadena is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Vancouver is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

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 Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is notable for students. However, Pasadena is not popular with students.

Many students visit Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Pasadena is not popular with students.

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

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Vancouver is top-notch. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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

Is Pasadena or Vancouver a more walkable city?

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

It is easy to get around Vancouver on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Pasadena Worth Visiting? and Is Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Pasadena?

How long in Pasadena or Vancouver?

In either Pasadena or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver than Pasadena because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Pasadena, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

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

One day in Pasadena or Vancouver?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Pasadena. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pasadena has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vancouver is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Vancouver?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Pasadena. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Vancouver is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Five days in Pasadena or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque city of Pasadena. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Pasadena or Vancouver?

Pasadena is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Vancouver 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 city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Pasadena or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pasadena. When comparing the sizes of Pasadena and Vancouver, 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 Pasadena or Vancouver?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pasadena or Vancouver in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pasadena as well as Vancouver. The summer months attract visitors to Pasadena because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

In the summer, Pasadena is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pasadena in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Pasadena usually gets less rain in July than Vancouver. Pasadena gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pasadena or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and Pasadena are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Pasadena this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pasadena is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Pasadena average around 68°F (20°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. In October, Pasadena usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Pasadena gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pasadena or Vancouver in the Winter?

Both Vancouver and Pasadena during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Pasadena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Vancouver in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vancouver can get quite cold in the winter. Pasadena is much warmer than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Pasadena averages around 56°F (13°C) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pasadena usually gets less rain in January than Vancouver. Pasadena gets 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pasadena or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pasadena and Vancouver. Also, most visitors come to Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Pasadena is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pasadena in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pasadena usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Pasadena gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Pasadena