“Parades are the hearts of traditions, full of life and color.”
The Rose Parade draws millions of viewers every year. For families, it can be magical, but also a little tricky. If you’ve been asking what is the best way to see the Rose Parade? The answer starts with smart planning, especially when kids are involved. Arrive early, choose a comfortable viewing spot, and pack snacks and essentials. These small steps can go a long way in making the experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone.
Choose the Right Viewing Spot
Kids need space to move and good views. Long hikes along the route can tire them out quickly. So find a location with seating access or open grass areas. Bring fold‑up chairs and picnic blankets. In some spots, you might even sit on low stools. These work wonders for little legs!
Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Getting there late means crowded sidewalks and stressed kids. It’s best to arrive at least one hour before the parade starts. This gives time for setup, bathroom breaks, or finding your spot. Plus, you can enjoy the calm before the floats roll by.
Pack Kid-Friendly Essentials
Kids can get sleepy or fidgety. Help them stay happy with:
- Water bottles and light snacks
- Hats and sunscreen to protect from sun
- Small toys or coloring pads to pass time
These simple items keep kids busy while they wait.
Dress for Changing Weather
Morning can be cool, but midday often warms up fast. Dress kids in layers like t‑shirts, sweaters, or light jackets. That way, they stay warm at first but can remove layers as the sun comes out. Don’t forget sunglasses and caps to reduce glare.
Plan Quiet Moments
The parade is colorful but loud with bands and cheering. Kids may need a break. Plan short walks between floats. Use those moments to stretch, browse vendors, or grab a snack. These breaks help avoid meltdowns and keep the experience positive.
Keep Kids Safe and Close
Many hands and noise can confuse children. Use these safety ideas:
- Write your phone number and name on an ID tag
- Establish a basic plan if someone gets lost
- Hold their hand or use a wrist link in crowded spots
Simple measures go a long way for peace of mind.
Involve Kids in the Experience
Make the parade more than just watching:
- Teach them to wave at marching bands
- Let them count floats or spot horses
- Encourage them to cheer or clap at their favorite parts
This keeps them active, excited, and part of the event.
Capture the Moments
Taking photos or videos helps remember the day. But don’t overdo it. Sometimes just watching the live show matters most. Let kids decide when to smile or wave for a picture. That makes photos more natural and fun.
Use Breaks to Talk and Reflect
After a few floats, talk with your kids:
- Ask what they liked or disliked
- Discuss the colors or flowers on floats
- Ask how they felt about the music
This builds connection and makes the parade more meaningful to them.
End with a Treat
After the finale, treat kids to a special dessert or a small toy. It wraps up the day on a happy note and gives them something to look forward to after the excitement.
Plan Smarter: Rose Parade Packages by A la Carte Tours
Planning your Rose Parade visit with kids? It doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. A la Carte Tours offers simple, family-friendly packages that take care of everything, so you can focus on the fun.
You can choose from two main options. The Signature Tour Package includes round-trip transportation to/from the parade, Reserved Premium seating for the parade, a 4-star stay at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, meals, local sightseeing activities, and access to both pre- and post-parade events. It’s a complete experience designed to keep your holiday stress-free and enjoyable.
The Rose Parade ONLY Package is perfect if you just need parade access without the extras. Both options are built to make your parade day easier, smoother, and more memorable. After your tour, we also offer luxury cruise options to warm and sunny destinations, ideal for relaxing after the parade excitement. With thoughtful planning and comfortable options, A la Carte Tours helps turn your Rose Parade visit into a fun, relaxing, and memorable experience.
Lasting Impressions
Bringing kids to the Rose Parade is fun with some smart planning. Start early, choose easy seats, bring essentials, and build in quiet moments. By focusing on comfort and their pace, you can make a loving memory in Pasadena.
Curious how much does it cost to go to the Rose Parade? Tickets range upwards from $80 minimum for Grandstand seats and Premium Seats as high as $325.00 per seat. With groups, add-ons, hospitality options, and hotel stays, costs can change. Still, this memorable day is worth the spending. For more, contact us today.