How to Get a Good Spot to Watch the Tournament of Roses Parade

The Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena is a New Year's Day tradition for football fans and Americans in general. Though many people dream of seeing the parade in person, most are content just watching it from the comfort of their living rooms. For those hardy souls who travel to Pasadena, there are a few ways to get a good spot to watch the Tournament of Roses Parade.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Buy grandstand tickets to guarantee a spot. Tickets are available to purchase from February 1st to December 31st, or buy a Rose Parade tour package from a vendor which includes transportation.

2. Take public transportation to the Parade route. This will eliminate the pesky parking dilemmas so common in Southern California. The Gold Line subway now runs to Pasadena not far from the Colorado Boulevard Parade route so you can scope out a good spot.

3. Line up early. People can "camp out" after noon on December 31st according to the official Rose Bowl website. If you decide to do this, bring comfortable chairs, blankets, a radio, sandwiches and whatever else you may need to pass the time.

4. Bring your RV or camper to Pasadena. Parking is allowed December 29th and later until all spaces are filled. Check with the city of Pasadena or Rose Parade organizers for details.

5. View the floats up close and personal after the parade at Washington Boulevard and Sierra Madre. If you're in town prior to the Tournament of Roses Parade, volunteer to help decorate a float.

Tips & Warnings

• While waiting for the Parade or watching it, be courteous of your fellow Parade watchers and refrain from obstructing their view or getting too rowdy.

Resources

• Check out the Pasadena Convention & Visitors Bureau website.