Operated by Caltech, JPL is NASA’s main center for robotic exploration of the solar system. It's about 7 miles north of the main Caltech campus. It’s best visited during public lectures in the annual open house (usually in May), or by requesting a tour well in advance.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Rose Bowl Stadium

0.64 MILES

One of LA’s most venerable landmarks, the 1922 Rose Bowl Stadium can seat up to 93,000 spectators and has its moment in the sun every New Year’s Day when…

3. Art Center College of Design

0.91 MILES

Overlooking the Arroyo Seco from its ridgetop perch is this world-renowned arts campus. Free tours for prospective students are offered during the school…

4. Kidspace Children's Museum

1.08 MILES

Kidspace is one of the best children's museums we've seen, with hands-on exhibits, outdoor learning areas and gardens luring the single-digit set. It…

5. Gamble House

1.36 MILES

This mansion in northwest central Pasadena has been called one of the 10 most architecturally significant homes in America. The 1908 masterpiece of…

7. Pasadena Museum of History

1.57 MILES

On the grounds of a palatial beaux-arts mansion that once housed the Finnish consulate, this interesting museum now presents changing exhibits on some…

8. Norton Simon Museum

1.75 MILES

Rodin’s The Burghers of Calais standing guard by the entrance is only a mind-teasing overture to the full symphony of art in store at this exquisite…