nearest airport to pasadena

2 min read 09-03-2025

Meta Description: Planning a trip to Pasadena? Find the closest airport, compare travel times and options from LAX, Burbank, and Ontario, and make your journey smooth. We cover transportation options, distances, and tips for getting to Pasadena from each airport.

Finding the Best Airport for Your Pasadena Trip

Pasadena, California, a city known for its iconic Rose Bowl, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, doesn't have its own airport. This means travelers need to fly into a nearby airport and then continue their journey to Pasadena. But which airport is best? Let's explore the options:

1. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Distance: Approximately 12 miles (19 km) from downtown Pasadena.
Travel Time: Expect a 30-45 minute drive in light traffic, but significantly longer during rush hour.
Transportation Options:
- Rental Car: The most convenient option, offering flexibility.
- Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Readily available, though potentially more expensive than a rental car, especially during peak hours.
- Taxi: A readily available option, but typically more expensive than ride-sharing.
- Public Transportation: A less convenient but cost-effective option involving a combination of buses and possibly a Metro Rail line. This will extend travel time considerably.

2. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)

Distance: Approximately 18 miles (29 km) from downtown Pasadena.
Travel Time: Around 30-45 minutes without traffic, potentially much longer during peak travel times.
Transportation Options:
- Rental Car: Convenient, offering a quicker and more direct route to Pasadena than public transportation.
- Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Easily accessible at BUR.
- Taxi: Available but might be more expensive compared to ride-sharing.
- Public Transportation: Similar to LAX, public transport is an option but less direct and time-efficient.

3. Ontario International Airport (ONT)

Distance: Approximately 35 miles (56 km) from downtown Pasadena.
Travel Time: A drive of about 45-60 minutes in ideal conditions, considerably longer during rush hour.
Transportation Options:
- Rental Car: Most convenient, offering flexibility and speed.
- Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Available, though the distance means higher fares.
- Taxi: Available, but expect higher costs due to the distance.
- Public Transportation: More complicated and less efficient compared to LAX and BUR.

Which Airport is Right for You?

Choosing the best airport depends on several factors:

Budget: LAX generally offers more affordable flights, but transportation costs might be higher depending on your chosen mode of transport. BUR and ONT sometimes offer cheaper flights, but travel time to Pasadena should be considered.
Time: LAX and BUR are closer, resulting in shorter travel times to Pasadena. However, traffic congestion can significantly impact all three.
Flight Availability and Price: Compare flight options and prices from all three airports to find the most cost-effective and convenient solution.

Tips for Getting to Pasadena from the Airport

Book Transportation in Advance: Especially during peak seasons or busy travel times, pre-booking a rental car or ride-sharing service is highly recommended.
Check Traffic Conditions: Before you leave the airport, check real-time traffic updates to estimate your travel time and avoid potential delays.
Consider Public Transportation Costs and Time: Factor in the extra time required when choosing public transport.
Use GPS Navigation: A GPS navigation system can help you avoid getting lost and find the most efficient route to your destination in Pasadena.

Conclusion

While Pasadena itself lacks an airport, LAX, BUR, and ONT provide convenient access. By considering the distance, travel time, transportation options, and your budget, you can choose the airport that best suits your travel needs and makes your trip to beautiful Pasadena as smooth as possible. Remember to factor in potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours. Happy travels!