Each New Year’s Day, millions gather to watch the iconic Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California. With breathtaking floats and lively performances, this event is a visual feast. To make the most of your experience, knowing where to watch the parade is key. For those looking to enhance their experience, consider joining one of the Rose Bowl Parade Tours, which offer guided access to some of the best viewing spots. Here are some prime locations along the parade route and tips for getting there.
Colorado Boulevard
Colorado Boulevard is the main street for the Rose Bowl Parade. This area is famous for its grand floats and lively crowds. Watching from here gives you a front-row view of the stunning floral displays. It’s also near many local restaurants and shops, making it easy to grab a bite before or after the parade. Arriving early is essential, as it can get crowded very quickly. Many people set up their chairs overnight to secure the best spots.
Orange Grove Boulevard
For a different perspective, Orange Grove Boulevard is a good choice. This street provides a more relaxed atmosphere while still offering great views of the floats. It’s less crowded than Colorado Boulevard, because it is the main staging area for the parade. Arrive early to secure a good spot, and consider bringing blankets for comfort. The trees along this route provide pleasant shade.
TV Corner
The TV Corner, located at the intersection of Colorado Boulevard and Orange Grove Boulevard, is lively and energetic. This is where some televised segments are filmed, making it a great spot for photos as the floats turn the corner onto the main parade route. However, it can get very crowded, so be sure to secure your tickets early to enjoy the action while feeling the event’s buzz.
Pasadena City Hall
Viewing the parade from Pasadena City Hall offers a unique backdrop. The building’s stunning architecture adds to the event’s beauty, and this area is usually less crowded. Bring a camera to capture the floats against this iconic structure. Arriving very early in the morning will help you find the best viewing spots.
Tips for Getting There
- Plan Your Arrival: Traffic can be very heavy on New Year’s Day, so plan to arrive early. Most people start arriving before sunrise, so be prepared for a long wait.
- Public Transport: Using public transportation is highly recommended. The Metro Gold Line can take you close to the parade route. Parking can be challenging and expensive, so using local transit can save you time and stress.
- Stay Hydrated and Comfortable: Bring water and snacks, as it can be a long day. Dress in layers, as the weather can change, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses and possibly a hat for early morning.
- Consider Rose Parade Packages and Rose Bowl Parade Tours: These packages often include transportation, seating, and even meals. They make for a hassle-free experience so you can focus on enjoying the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game.
Takeaway Messages
It is important to note there are only 70,000 seats available along the parade route, and only 7,000 premium seats are at the start of the parade. Over 700,000+ guests are in attendance each year on parade day, with 90% of attendees having to negotiate for a position along the parade route starting at 12-noon on December 31st. There are NO standing room only spaces available at the start of the parade. Premium Seats are positioned at the ‘start of the parade‘ where the major networks TV cameras are located and where all the entertainment happens. Be cautious when looking at tours for the Rose Parade. Some tour companies will use term like ‘near the start of the parade‘ or ‘close to the start of the parade‘ or they may not even list the location of their seats at all in their description. If you are not at the ‘start of the parade‘ you will not have the same exciting and enjoyable experience.
Finding the best spots along the Rose Bowl Parade route makes your experience unforgettable. Whether you choose the bustling Colorado Boulevard or the serene Pasadena City Hall, each location offers a unique view of this spectacular event. For an even more seamless experience, check out A la Carte Tours for great Rose Bowl Parade Packages that can enhance your day at the parade.
A la Carte Tours has spent decades creating and perfecting their Rose Parade tours to accommodate the best elements for the Tournament of Roses Parade and the Rose Bowl Game. Their curated experiences from the 3-Day/2-Night – Rose Parade Only Tour to the ever popular Ultimate 5-day/4-night Signature Tour Package offer a relaxed and well organized event that will please the entire family. With Optional Add-ons for the Rose Bowl Game, Mexico Cruises, Theme Parks, Las Vegas Getaway and Catalina Island options that will elevate your Rose Parade Holiday Experience to the next level of enjoyment.
Choose the package that lets you be present for the event, and not busy managing it from the sidelines. Book your Rose Parade tour now with A la Carte Tours by calling 800.749.9342, or book online at alacartetours.net. The Ultimate New Year’s Day holiday is waiting for you and your family.