Any person planning a visit to Pasadena, California, will immediately have to think about how they are going to get there. For most people, flying is the easiest way of doing so. But which airport should you fly to? In this blog, we will look at the closest airport to Pasadena, California and outline all you need to know to make your journey as seamless as possible.
Hollywood Burbank Airport
If one is targeting the closest airport to Pasadena, then it has to be the Hollywood Burbank Airport, formerly called Bob Hope Airport. This becomes the most accessible airport for those who are visiting Pasadena. The domestic and very few international flights carried out at this airport make it easier for access to Pasadena and other areas within Los Angeles.
Location and Distance
- Located in Burbank, California
- Distance from Pasadena: About 16 miles northwest
- Estimated drive time: 25-30 minutes by car (depending on traffic).
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
LAX is the biggest and busiest airport which is situated in the westside of Los Angeles. It may not be the closest airport to Pasadena, but it provides the biggest choice of domestic and international flights. LAX has several terminals and most of the leading airline companies are available here. This provides passengers with ample opportunities to choose from when flying down to Southern California. LAX definitely offers a greater variety of flight choices, which is why it is preferred by many people among all the airports of the area.
Locations and Distances
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Distance from Pasadena: About 30 miles southwest
- Estimated drive time: 45-60 minutes driving (vary traffic dependent)
Long Beach Airport (LGB)
Compared to larger airports, Long Beach Airport (LGB) offers a different traveling experience. With an open-air concourse and its historic Art Deco terminal building, the atmosphere is very resort-like while passengers wait in the facility. LGB primarily serves domestic markets. With convenient amenities, local restaurants, and an easy layout to navigate, Long Beach Airport provides a great beginning and ending for any type of trip.
Location And Distance
- Location: Long Beach, California
- Distance from Pasadena: About 30 miles south
- Drive time: approximately 45-60 minutes by car (depending on traffic)
Ontario International Airport (ONT)
Located in the Inland Empire area, Ontario International Airport is medium-sized and serves domestic and international flights. It is one of the closest airports to Pasadena, this does make easy access to the eastern parts of the Los Angeles metropolitan area for visitors.
Location And Distance
- Location: Ontario, California
- Distance from Pasadena: About 35 miles to the east
- Travel time by car estimated: 40-50 minutes with varying traffic
Options for Transportation from the Closest Airport to Pasadena, California
The following are some transportation options available from the Closest Airport to Pasadena, California –
1. Taxi/Ride-hailing: Taxi or ride-hailing is the quickest way to travel. On average, this takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
2. Shuttle Services: There also exists a good number of private shuttle services between the airport and Pasadena that charge less and may turn out to be more pocket-friendly for travelers.
3. Car Rental: If you will be driving yourself, you can rent a car at the airport. All major car rental companies are represented at the airport closest to Pasadena.
4. Public Transport: To reach Pasadena from the airport using public transit, take the Metro Bus 222 from the airport to the North Hollywood Station. At the North Hollywood Station, transfer to the Metro Red Line and take that to Union Station. Lastly, transfer to the Metro Gold Line at Union Station and take it to Pasadena.
Conclusion
Pasadena, California is a vibrant and charming city that attracts visitors from all around the world. If you are going to plan a visit, then you should choose your target airport wisely. The closest would be the Hollywood Burbank Airport, located 16 miles to the northwest and convenient for both domestic and international flights with a drive time of 25-30 minutes.
The more extensive Los Angeles International Airport lies 30 miles to the southwest, with more flights but a longer 45-60 minute commute. Other options include Long Beach Airport, 30 miles to the south, and the medium-sized Ontario International Airport, 35 miles to the east. Whichever airport you use, Pasadena has a range of transport options to help ensure smooth passage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hollywood Burbank Airport is closest to Pasadena, California. It’s located 16 miles northwest of Pasadena and takes around 25-30 minutes to get there by car.
In general, Burbank Airport is better to go to Pasadena from. It’s much closer and offers shorter travel times, will have less crowded facilities, and cheaper ground transportation.
The best options to get to Pasadena from the Hollywood Burbank Airport are:
Taxi/Ride-share fastest.
Airport shuttles good for groups
Car rental to explore
Public transport is cheapest
For flights departing Hollywood Burbank Airport, the airport closest to Pasadena, allow a minimum of 1.5 hours before any domestic flight and 2 hours before any international flight.
The closest airport to Pasadena, is the Hollywood Burbank Airport which offers limited flights. It is primarily a domestic facility with a few flights to Mexico.
