With this week’s temperatures soaring well above ninety degrees, here are a few ways to enjoy the summer season in Pasadena without feeling like you’ll melt into a puddle.
5. Sno-balls or Ice Cream, Anyone?
What’s summertime without a special trip out for ice cream or a sno-ball? Head over to Daily Scoop at 3201 Mountain Road for fresh-made ice cream in a variety of flavors such as Brookie Dough, Black Cherry, Black Raspberry Cheesecake, Apple Pie, Twix, Strawberry Shortcake, Salted Caramel, Cookie Jar, Birthday Cake, Cookie Dough, Peaches and Cream, Cake Batter, Grizzly Paws, Smurf, Boston Cream Pie, Butter Pecan, Snowflake, Toasted Coconut, Caramel Cashew, Banana Pudding, Cinnamon Buns, and more.
If you’re craving a snowball, you’re in luck – Pasadena is home to some of the top-tier snowballs and Hawaiian-style shaved ice. Snowball Dave’s Ice Shack on Mountain Road is a local favorite, offering a huge variety of flavors, fast friendly service, and classic egg-custard toppings that keep customers coming back.
Just about a third of a mile away, Kavern Snow Syrup on Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard dishes out vibrant syrup flavors —we even hear they’ve got over 30 flavor options and fun add-ons.
There’s also the Kona Ice Truck, which boasts a variety of flavors and concoctions, and can be found around town and at local parks. We recommend following their social media pages to track down where they’ll be and when.
For something a little different, check out Magothy Ice Co. on Fort Smallwood Road. They serve Hawaiian-style shaved ice with ultra-fine, fluffy texture that melts like freshly fallen snow—plus a wide range of classic and creative toppings. Whether you’re after nostalgia, variety, or that perfect shave, these three spots are must-visits this summer.
4. Catch A Movie at Marley Station Mall’s Horizon Cinema
While Marley Station Mall looks more like a ghost town every day, its movie theater – Horizon Cinema – is a bustling place during the summer months. The air-conditioned theater features new power-reclining chairs and reserved seating. The theater also offers a Summer Kid’s Series, where each day a different kids movie is featured. Movie tickets are just $6 each for the Summer Kid’s Series and include a snack pack.
3. Perfect Your Golf Swing – In The Air Conditioning
Nestled in Pasadena Crossroads between Pet Supplies Plus and Sprouts is X-Golf Pasadena, an indoor golf simulator that boasts eight top-tier bays equipped with infrared lasers, cameras, and impact sensors delivering super-realistic swing and ball data from world-renowned courses. It’s perfect for casual fun, serious practice, or friendly competition—whether you’re flying solo, with family, or in a full group of up to six per bay. They also host leagues, tournaments, private events, and parties, plus offer PGA‑certified lessons backed by advanced tech playxgolf.com. After your round, grab a bite from their bar menu—wings, pizza, pretzels, craft beers, and cocktails are all on offer at the full sports bar. Open daily, X‑Golf Pasadena blends high-performance golf, social vibes, and entertainment—all under one roof.
2. Get A Lesson In Local History
Two of our nearby parks – Downs Park and Historic Hancock’s Resolution – offer indoor Visitor’s Centers that feature a wealth of information on Pasadena history. These museum-like informational centers have a variety of exhibits and displays relating to local history, nature, farmland, businesses, prominent community members and more.
1. Get Your Creative Juices Flowing
Located at 3020 Mountain Road is Pic N Paint Pottery, a beloved studio that has been sparking creativity among local residents for years. With an extensive selection of pottery pieces to paint, this indoor, air-conditioned destination is perfect for artists of all ages, and was even voted “Best Indoor Entertainment Spot” in Real Pasadena’s “Best Of” poll. The private party room is a hit for special events, and their exceptional customer service keeps guests coming back.
