Rose Bowl Stadium

The basics

The natural grass field opened for its first season in 1922, and has since been named a National Historic Landmark and a California Historical Civil Engineering Landmark. The Pasadena-based stadium can seat more than 92,000 people at any of its sporting or musical events.

The stadium offers two regularly scheduled public tours on the last Friday of every month, where guests get to explore spaces such as the original 1922 locker room, the current UCLA visitors’ locker room, and the field.

Things to know before you go

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and allow at least 2 hours for tours of the stadium, part of which is outside.

• Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour departure.

• The Rose Bowl has additional public tours offered during the holiday season.

• The stadium complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act’s Standards for Accessible Design.

How to get there

The Rose Bowl Stadium is located in the heart of Pasadena, about a 15-minute drive northwest from the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens. Visitor parking is in Lot F outside of Gate A on non-event days.

When to get there

Monthly tours run mid-morning and around midday on the last Friday of the month. If you are headed to the Rose Bowl for a special event, check your ticket for the appropriate entry time.

The Rose Bowl Flea Market

On the second Sunday of every month, the stadium opens its doors to the legendary Rose Bowl Flea Market. More than 2,500 vendors set up their stalls, packed with everything from jewelry to clothing to memorabilia, ready to sell their wares for the day. In addition to flea-market finds, food and drinks are available for purchase.

Can I visit the Rose Bowl?

Yes, you can visit the Rose Bowl. There are public, VIP tours for less than 20 people and educational tours available through the stadium. You can book a larger group private tour for groups with 20 or more. All guided tours include a visit to the original 1922 locker room.

How long does it take to tour the Rose Bowl?

Plan on around two hours or more to thoroughly experience the Rose Bowl. There are a few top spots to check out, like the press box, UCLA and visitor’s locker rooms, the luxury suites, the Court of Champions, the 1922 Locker Room, and the field. Tour stops may change.

Who plays at the Rose Bowl?

The UCLA Bruins play football at the Rose Bowl every year. There are also annual games, like the Tournament of Roses Football Game and the AmericaFest Fourth of July Celebration. Concerts and religious events are held here, along with a huge monthly flea market.

What is the history of the Rose Bowl?

Designed by Myron Hunt as a horseshoe shape, the Rose Bowl was built in 1922. The first game was played on New Year’s Day in 1923, and it became a tradition every year after the parade. Over time, the horseshoe shape has morphed into an oval or bowl.

What’s the best way to get to the Rose Bowl?

To get to the Rose Bowl via public transportation, take the Metrolink to Union Station and then ride the Metro Gold Line to the stadium. Or, try the shuttle, which connects the Rose Bowl to Parsons Engineering complex in Old Town. Rideshares and driving are options, too.

Is the Rose Bowl in Los Angeles?

No, the Rose Bowl isn’t in Los Angeles. It’s in Pasadena, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) from LA’s downtown. Pasadena is next to the San Gabriel Mountains. It’s relatively easy to get to from LA, but make sure you leave plenty of time on game day.