Rose Bowl Stadium is a historic outdoor sports venue in Pasadena, northeast of central Los Angeles. Opened in 1922 and designated a National Historic Landmark, it is home to UCLA Bruins football and the annual Rose Bowl Game. The horseshoe-shaped design and arched entrances give the stadium a distinctive profile, with the San Gabriel Mountains as a dramatic backdrop. You can visit for a game, concert or other event, browse the monthly flea market, or look into a guided tour that enters areas such as the locker rooms and press booth.
A Pasadena stadium since 1922
Rose Bowl Stadium opened in 1922 in Pasadena, within the Arroyo Seco. Architect Myron Hunt designed it with a horseshoe-shaped plan and arched entrances. Much of the original architecture remains, alongside later renovations that brought modern updates to the venue.
The stadium is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and a California Historic Civil Engineering landmark. Its identity is closely tied to college football: it is the home field of the UCLA Bruins and the site of the annual Rose Bowl Game, traditionally held around New Year’s Day after the Rose Parade. The venue has also hosted international soccer, including the 1994 FIFA World Cup Final and the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final, as well as the 1984 Olympic soccer gold-medal match.
Tours and areas to explore
A guided tour gives you a way to see the stadium beyond its exterior and event spaces. Tour routes can include areas such as the press booth, club house, locker rooms and memorabilia rooms. Some tours also visit the original 1922 locker room and the Loge Lounge. Routes and access can depend on the tour, so check what is included when planning.
The stadium is a large venue, with capacity reported at more than 90,000. Even without a game ticket, a tour can help you understand its layout and history. Public tours have been listed on the last Friday of the month, but schedules can change, so confirm current arrangements before travelling.
Games, concerts and the flea market
Football is only one reason the Rose Bowl fills its calendar. Concerts, festivals and other large events have used the stadium and its grounds, drawing crowds for very different kinds of gatherings. Check the event schedule to see what coincides with your visit; the experience and access vary by event.
The Rose Bowl Flea Market takes place on the second Sunday of each month around the stadium perimeter. Hundreds of vendors sell vintage clothing, antiques, jewellery and other goods. It can take time to browse such a large market, so plan your visit around the stalls you most want to explore. For major events, arriving early helps you allow time for entry. If you are travelling back to Pasadena after an event, arrange transport ahead of time, since shuttle options may be limited.
FAQ
Where is Rose Bowl Stadium?
It is at 1001 Rose Bowl Dr in Pasadena, northeast of central Los Angeles.
What is Rose Bowl Stadium known for?
It is the home field of the UCLA Bruins and the annual Rose Bowl Game. The 1922 stadium has also hosted major soccer matches, concerts and other events.
Can you tour Rose Bowl Stadium?
Guided tours are available and may include spaces such as the locker rooms, press booth and memorabilia rooms. Check the current schedule and route before visiting.
When is the Rose Bowl Flea Market?
The market is held on the second Sunday of each month around the stadium perimeter.
