Oct 20, 2025
·Mary Callahan
The Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, is one of the most iconic sports and entertainment venues in the world. Known as the home of the annual Rose Bowl Game and a frequent site of college football’s biggest matchups, the historic stadium has also hosted Super Bowls, FIFA World Cup matches, Olympic events and legendary concerts. Whether you’re heading there for a major football game, a blockbuster concert or a community event, SeatGeek has everything you need to make your visit unforgettable.
About Rose Bowl Stadium
Address: Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103
Nestled in the Arroyo Seco area of Pasadena, just 10 miles northeast of downtown Los Angeles, the Rose Bowl is a National Historic Landmark with a capacity of about 88,500 fans. The stadium is best known for hosting the Rose Bowl Game every New Year’s Day—often referred to as the “Granddaddy of Them All”—and is a regular site for College Football Playoff semifinals.
Beyond football, the Rose Bowl has become a premier concert and event destination. It has welcomed superstar performers like U2, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and The Rolling Stones and is also home to popular local events like the monthly Rose Bowl Flea Market.
A Look Back at Rose Bowl Stadium’s History
The Rose Bowl first opened in 1922, originally built to host the annual Rose Bowl Game, which had previously been played at nearby Tournament Park. Designed by architect Myron Hunt, the stadium has undergone numerous expansions and renovations over the years while retaining its historic charm.
Over the decades, the Rose Bowl has been the site of many unforgettable moments:
Five Super Bowls (including Super Bowl XXI and XXVII)
The 1984 Summer Olympics soccer competition and the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games
The 1994 FIFA Men’s World Cup Final and the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final
Numerous concerts and cultural events that have cemented its global reputation
Its rich history and scenic location against the San Gabriel Mountains make it one of the most beloved stadiums in the world.
How to Get to Rose Bowl Stadium
Driving: The Rose Bowl is accessible from the 210, 134, and 110 freeways. Parking is available in lots surrounding the stadium and on the Brookside Golf Course adjacent to the venue. Pre-purchasing parking passes through SeatGeek or the stadium’s official site is recommended, as traffic can be heavy on event days.
Public Transit: The Metro Gold Line (now the L Line) connects Pasadena to Los Angeles, with shuttle services available from Memorial Park Station to the stadium on game days and major events.
Shuttles & Rideshare: Event-day shuttles from Old Pasadena, along with designated rideshare pickup zones, provide additional convenience.
Accessibility: ADA parking is available in multiple lots, and accessible shuttles run between lots and stadium gates.
Plan Your Visit to Rose Bowl Stadium
Opening Times: Parking lots generally open 6 hours before major events, with stadium gates opening 2 hours prior to kickoff, kickoff or showtime.
Event Duration: College football games typically last around 3.5 hours. Concerts and other events vary in length.
Ticketing Types: Mobile tickets are preferred, though printed tickets and will-call are also available.
Food & Beverages: The Rose Bowl offers classic stadium fare such as hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn, alongside Los Angeles-inspired bites like tacos, gourmet burgers and craft beer. Many vendors spotlight local food trucks and regional flavors.
Amenities: Restrooms, guest services, family areas and medical stations are located throughout the stadium. Premium club seats and suites offer upgraded amenities.
Accessibility Services: Accessible seating, elevators, ramps, assistive listening devices and ADA restrooms are available throughout the venue.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: The Rose Bowl enforces a clear bag policy—bags must be transparent and no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small clutch bags and medically necessary items are permitted.
Security: All guests must pass through security screenings, including metal detectors and bag checks.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and drink (except sealed water bottles), umbrellas, professional cameras, coolers and noisemakers are not permitted.
Alcohol Policy: Guests must present a valid photo ID for alcohol purchases. Limits and last-call times vary by event.
Re-Entry: Re-entry is not permitted once you leave the stadium.
Inside Rose Bowl Stadium
The Rose Bowl’s atmosphere is unlike any other. On New Year’s Day, the stadium comes alive with tradition, pageantry and the roar of college football fans from across the country. The panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and Pasadena skyline create one of the most picturesque settings in sports.
For concerts, the stadium transforms into a massive outdoor stage, offering both intimate vibes for floor seats and sweeping views from the upper decks. Whether you’re watching a championship game, an Olympic match or a superstar performance, the energy inside the Rose Bowl is unforgettable.
Make the Most of Your Visit to Rose Bowl Stadium
Best Value Seats: Upper-level sideline seats provide excellent views at more affordable prices for football games.
Premium Experience: Club seating and suites offer luxury amenities, great views and upgraded dining.
Concert Tips: Floor seats provide an up-close experience, while sideline and corner bowl seats balance view and comfort.
Arrive Early: Traffic in Pasadena can be heavy, so arriving early allows time to enjoy tailgating, the Fan Fest or a stroll through Old Pasadena.
Legacy at Rose Bowl Stadium
Few venues in the world carry the prestige of the Rose Bowl. From Super Bowls and World Cup finals to unforgettable concerts and the timeless Rose Bowl Game, the stadium has hosted some of the most important moments in sports and entertainment history. It’s not just a venue—it’s a living piece of American culture.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
The Rose Bowl offers one of the most legendary live event experiences anywhere. Whether you’re cheering on your team, seeing a world-famous artist or experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime event, SeatGeek makes it easy to find the best tickets, compare seats, and plan your perfect trip to Pasadena.