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Family-Friendly Hotels in Pasadena: A Review of The Westin

Westin Pasadena Family friendly hotel

Finding a family-friendly hotel for your Pasadena getaway can be tricky, but The Westin Pasadena provides a welcoming and convenient stay for guests of all ages. In this review of The Westin Pasadena, we’ll explore why it stands out among Family-Friendly Hotels in Pasadena.

Nestled in the heart of Pasadena, this stylish yet family-friendly hotel combines modern amenities with easy access to some of the city’s best attractions.

Situated in the heart of Pasadena and near Old Town, The Westin offers families the perfect base to explore the interactive exhibits at Kidspace Children’s Museum, wander through the charming streets of Old Pasadena, or unwind by the hotel’s outdoor heated pool.

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Prime Location for Family Adventures

The Westin Pasadena location is one of its best features. Families will find it easy to experience the city’s top attractions. Just a short drive away, the Kidspace Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits that spark creativity and curiosity, perfect for young explorers.

If your family enjoys ice skating, the Pasadena Ice Skating Center provides a fun indoor activity, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater.

If you have a teen, consider the Pasadena Prowl Scavenger Hunt activity.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Brookside Park—Pasadena’s largest public park—features a playground, picnic areas, and plenty of space for kids to run around. With so many family-friendly destinations within reach, The Westin Pasadena serves as an ideal home base for a well-rounded, adventure-filled getaway.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Pasadena Ice Skating Rink
  • Kidspace Children’s Museum
  • Norton Simon Museum
  • Pasadena Children’s Museum
  • USC Pacific Asia Museum

Comfortable and Spacious Family Accommodations

Having stayed at The Westin Pasadena for the past four weeks, I’ve had the chance to experience a King room and a Double room, each offering comfort and modern amenities.

While no hotel room is perfect, The Westin does a great job of providing clean and well-maintained accommodations that cater to both solo travelers and families.

The beds are comfortable, making relaxing after a long day of sightseeing easy. One hotel feature I like is that the windows open, allowing for fresh air—something not always common in hotels.

Families will appreciate:

  • Cribs available upon request
  • In-room refrigerator (it’s actually pretty large in comparisons to other hotel rooms)
  • In-room TVs allow guests to log into their own Prime Video and Netflix accounts
  • Outdoor heated pool
  • Location of hotel
  • Many restaurants nearby

My Recommendation:

For the quietest stay, I highly recommend requesting a corner Double room on the Euclid St. side of the building. It’s farther from street noise on Fair Oaks and Walnut and offers a more peaceful atmosphere. A corner room is also slightly larger than a non-corner room.

The Westin Hotel Pasadena King Room


On-Site Family-Friendly Amenities

The Westin Pasadena does not have an on-site playground, but families can walk to Playhouse Village Park on Union Street in 8 minutes. This small but cute park has a playground, open green space, and seating areas for kids to burn off some energy.

Back at the hotel, the outdoor heated pool is an excellent relaxing spot for families. Whether it’s a morning swim before heading out for the day or an evening dip after exploring Pasadena, the pool is open year-round. Parents will also love that pool towels are provided, so you don’t have to pack one.

There are also tables and chairs to eat at on the deck, so consider picnicking one day.

The Westin Pasadena Hotel Pool Family
Westin Hotel Pool in February

Tip: If you can, plan your pool time right at sunset. The view is magnificent!

Sunset image from The Westin Pasadena Pool deck


Dining Options for All Ages

When it comes to dining, The Westin’s on-site options aren’t kid-focused, but families won’t have to go far to find a kid-friendly restaurant. Next to The Westin is California Pizza Kitchen, which has a kid’s menu with cheese and pepperoni pizza, pasta, and chicken bites. A convenient and easy option for families looking for a casual meal in a friendly environment

Ventanas Restaurant is the hotel’s on-site restaurant. They offer a limited menu, but still delicious options for guests. They also offer a Happy Hour M-F and a Wine Down Wednesday featuring a musical performer.

Room Service is available as well.

Other Family Friendly dining Options Nearby

There are several other restauants located near The Westin. Take a walk down Colorado Street or Union Street and you will find a ton of great places to eat. You will also find many spots to grab a coffee and pastry if your family prefers.

Here are some family-friendly options  I recommend.

  • Setabello’s on Lake (Easy walk from the hotel)
  • Yard House
  • Prince St. Pizza
  • Nine and Nine Thai Kitchen
  • Europane Pasadena

Proximity to Educational and Fun Attractions

One of the best things about staying at The Westin Pasadena is its proximity to some of Southern California’s educational and entertainment attractions.

Families can explore the California Science Center, and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles. These museums are located in downtown Los Angeles. The drive takes about 20-25 minutes depending on traffic. Consider taking the Pasdena Metro. You can catch the train on Holly Street station which is about a 5 minute walk. Trip time to downtown is about 25 mins.

Another fantastic destination, and a short walk from the hotel, is The Pasadena Playhouse. This place is a must-visit for those who love live performances. Check their schedule to see what shows are live.


Tips for a Memorable Family Stay

To make the most of your family-friendly stay at The Westin Pasadena, consider a few key tips:

  • Book the Best Room for Families: Request a corner Double room on the Euclid side of the building for a quieter and more spacious stay.
  • Families traveling with young children may also want to request a crib in advance.
  • Pack Smart: Bring essentials like a portable stroller, snacks, and refillable water bottles to make exploring Pasadena more convenient.
  • Check for Seasonal Events: Pasadena hosts family-friendly events year-round, including holiday parades, outdoor movie nights, and farmers’ markets. If visiting during the summer, check for free concerts in the park or special museum exhibits tailored for kids.

Conclusion

After spending the past four weeks at The Westin Pasadena, I can confidently say it’s a great option for families. Its family-friendly amenities and prime location provide easy access to Pasadena’s best attractions, from museums and theaters to parks and restaurants. Family-Friendly Hotels in Pasadena: A Review of The Westin Pasadena

The hotel offers clean, well-maintained rooms with incredibly comfortable beds. I appreciate that the windows open for fresh air. While no hotel is perfect, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. For the best stay, I highly recommend requesting a corner Double room on the quieter Euclid St. side of the building.

Whether you’re exploring the city or unwinding after a fun-filled day, The Westin Pasadena strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure for travelers of all ages.

Check pricing for the Westin Hotel Pasadena here.

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