Pasadena

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Top 10 attractions in Pasadena

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Universal Studios Hollywood
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Universal Studios Hollywood

10
4.8/5
8.2k reviews
Explore iconic movie scenes, join immersive photo activities, enjoy upgraded tours, and indulge in themed food and collectibles. Explore Hollywood's grand movie street scenes and discover behind-the-scenes insights into film production. Explore the magical world of Harry Potter and discover the mysterious Hogwarts Castle Step into the Super Mario™ world on Super Nintendo and get ready for Mario Kart™. Experience thrilling roller coasters and realistic movie scenesLos Angeles · 19.3km from Pasadena
Griffith Observatory
2026 Americas 50 - Night Attractions

Griffith Observatory

8.3
4.7/5
571 reviews
Griffith Observatory is located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park. This white-domed building, completed in 1935, is a classic spot in Los Angeles for watching sunsets and night views. The observation deck offers an expansive view, overlooking the Los Angeles Basin, the downtown skyline in the distance, and the Pacific coastline, while facing the nearby "Hollywood" sign. At dusk, the sun sinks toward the coastline, and as night falls, the city lights gradually fill the entire basin, creating a particularly magnificent scene. Films such as "Transformers" and "La La Land" have been shot here. The museum is packed with highlights: the Foucault pendulum hanging in the central hall swings continuously, periodically knocking down wooden pegs on its surrounding rail, visually demonstrating Earth's rotation. The dome is encircled by astronomical-themed murals painted by artist Hugo Ballin. The lower exhibition hall features a model of the solar system's planets suspended from the ceiling, while a massive photo wall spanning tens of meters displays millions of galaxies, accompanied by a statue of Einstein pointing toward it. In the central dome theater, visitors can recline in their seats and follow the live guide to explore the stars and the cosmos. During daytime visits, travelers can observe real-time solar images through the solar telescope in the exhibition hall. On clear nights, the rooftop Zeiss refracting telescope is open to the public for stargazing, and millions of travelers have gazed at the stars through it since its construction. To catch both sunset and night views in one trip, it's recommended to head up the mountain early, allowing ample time for exhibitions and waiting for nightfall. Weekends and holidays draw large crowds, often causing traffic congestion on the mountain road.Los Angeles · 14.7km from Pasadena
Griffith Park
2026 Global 100 - Family-friendly Attractions

Griffith Park

7.8
4.6/5
163 reviews
Griffith Park spans the eastern end of theSanta Monica Mountainsand is one of the largest urban wilderness parks in the United States. Large areas of the park retain their original chaparral landscape, with California oaks and native sage covering the hillsides. While hiking, you may often encounter wildlife such as coyotes, deer, and even bobcats. The park was donated to the citizens of Los Angeles by Welsh-born industrialist Griffith in 1896, with the wish that it be shared by people of all races, creeds, and colors. The park brings together several unique destinations: theLos Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Autry Museum of the American West, the Travel Town Museum, The Greek Theatre open-air performance venue, and the Griffith Observatory on the mountain, while theHollywood Signitself is also located within the park. The network of hiking trails running throughout the park is one of its main features. Visitors can hike along the mountain trails to the top of the Hollywood Hills to take in views of both the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles city skyline. At sunset, golden light spills over the hillsides, and the city lights gradually twinkle on below. The park also features golf courses and equestrian trails, where you can ride along mountain paths and experience this urban wilderness at a different pace than hiking.Los Angeles · 13.8km from Pasadena
Warner Bros. Studios Tour Hollywood
No. 10 of Best Things to Do in West Coast of the United States

Warner Bros. Studios Tour Hollywood

7.9
4.4/5
129 reviews
Warner Bros. Studios Tour Hollywood is a dream come true for movie and TV enthusiasts. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore behind-the-scenes secrets of filmmaking and experience it firsthand.HollywoodThe magic of Warner Bros. Studio has brought over 100 years of entertainment to the world, and with our Studio Tour, you'll get closer than ever to these amazing activities. During the Warner Bros. Studios Tour Hollywood, you can visit filming locations of classic American TV shows and movies, observe soundstages and sets up close, and experience the charm of movie locations. You'll have the opportunity to watch Foley artists create sound effects for films, learn about set construction processes, and uncover the mysteries of filmmaking. Our expert guide will accompany you, taking you behind the scenes to discover every detail of movie production. Whether you're a movie enthusiast or a curious visitor, the Warner Bros. Studios Tour Hollywood offers a unique perspective, giving you an in-depth look at how the entertainment industry operates. This attraction is not just a destination, but a bridge connecting you to the world of film and television. Get ready to begin yourHollywoodEmbark on an adventure and experience the magic of movies!Burbank · 17.6km from Pasadena
Hollywood Walk of Fame
2026 Americas 50 - Night Attractions

Hollywood Walk of Fame

7.4
4.6/5
1.3k reviews
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic sidewalk view in the Hollywood district of Los Angeles, stretching over ten blocks along Hollywood Boulevard and extending three more blocks along Vine Street, with the main section alone spanning approx. two km. Since the first stars were embedded in the pavement in 1960, over 2,800 pink five-pointed badges have been laid, each with brass borders and engraved copper lettering for names—from actors, directors, and singers to hosts, and even fictional characters like Mickey Mouse and Godzilla, all finding their own star here. Below each star is a brass emblem denoting its category: a movie camera for film, a TV for television, a record for music, a microphone for radio, comedy and tragedy masks for theater and live performances, and recently, a trophy for sports and entertainment. The distribution of stars is deliberate, with the most popular ones clustered near the TCL Chinese Theatre, while Oscar winners' stars gather around the Dolby Theatre. The Chinese Theatre's forecourt also features handprints and footprints of numerous celebrities, worth a visit. The entire Walk has only one exception: boxing legend Muhammad Ali's star is not on the ground but mounted on the wall of the Dolby Theatre, as he didn't want anyone stepping on his name. At the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, four round Apollo moon landing commemorative plaques are embedded, often overlooked as hidden gems. To find your favorite star among nearly 3,000—whether it's Michael Jackson or Marilyn Monroe—it's best to check the exact location beforehand. Street performers dressed as superheroes or cartoon characters often greet travelers for photos, usually asking for gratuities afterward, so consider this before posing. Also, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Star ceremonies are held irregularly throughout the year, and if you happen to catch a new honoree's unveiling, you might witness a lively event.Los Angeles · 17.8km from Pasadena
Hollywood
No. 8 of Night Attractions in California

Hollywood

7.2
4.8/5
658 reviews
Hollywood is world-famous for its thriving film and entertainment industry. In the early 20th century, the abundant sunshine and dry, arid climate of Southern California were extremely favorable for filmmaking, leading many film production companies to relocate to the area; Paramount Pictures still maintains its headquarters here today. The "HOLLYWOOD" sign, spelled out in 9 huge white letters on the mountain, is an iconic visual symbol of the entire area. This sign was initially a promotional billboard for the real estate project "Hollywoodland," but the "land" at the end was later removed, becoming the version familiar to people today. Hollywood Boulevard is the heart of the district. The Hollywood Walk of Fame extends along the boulevard and Vine Street, with over 2,500 five-pointed stars embedded in the sidewalk, each inscribed with the name of an entertainment industry figure, ranging from classic movie stars to contemporary musicians. The concrete forecourt of the TCL Chinese Theatre preserves the handprints and footprints of numerous stars, which is a distinct commemorative system from the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Dolby Theatre, adjacent to theTCL Chinese Theatre, is the long-time home of the Academy Awards ceremony. Sunset Blvd runs through the area, lined with tall, straight rows of palm trees, a quintessential classic street scene.Los Angeles · 17.9km from Pasadena
Angels Flight Railway
2026 Americas 50 - Night Attractions

Angels Flight Railway

6.2
4.2/5
55 reviews
Angels Flight RailwayLocated in the Bunker Hill district of downtown Los Angeles, United States, it is a historic funicular railway with over a century of history and one of Los Angeles' iconic historic transportation facilities. The railway's interior retains a strong vintage style. The line operates with two classic cars connected by a single cable, using each other's weight as a counterweight. As one car travels to the top of the hill, the other simultaneously travels down. The orange-red car design is full of nostalgia, creating a sharp contrast with the surrounding modern downtown buildings. Although the interior space is compact, it retains wooden seats, a simple structural design, and a vintage atmosphere, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm of urban transportation from the late 19th to early 20th century in a journey of less than a minute.Los Angeles · 14.5km from Pasadena
Little Tokyo
Selected for Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

Little Tokyo

5.5
4.3/5
210 reviews
Little Tokyois located in downtown Los Angeles, United States. It is a Japanese-American cultural district with over a century of history and is one of the few communities in the United States that still retains traditional Japanese charm relatively intact. Today, it preserves the historical imprints of Japanese immigrant development while integrating modern commerce, dining, and art spaces, serving as an important window into Japanese culture abroad and the multicultural society of Los Angeles. The streets are lined with vintage commercial buildings, where century-old structures and modern buildings are interspersed, creating a unique sense of historical layering. Red lanterns, wooden lattice facades, and Japanese decorative elements can be seen throughout the district, making visitors feel as if they are in a community far from Japan that is still full of traditional charm. Specialty shops such as bookstores, wagashi shops, sushi restaurants, and ramen shops are densely packed here, making it perfect for leisurely exploration.Los Angeles · 13.8km from Pasadena
Chinatown
Selected for Best Things to Do in San Fernando Valley

Chinatown

5.2
4.5/5
71 reviews
Chinatownis located north of downtown Los Angeles, United States. It retains strong Chinese cultural characteristics while integrating modern commerce, art, and community life elements, making it an important window for understanding the multiculturalism of Los Angeles. The Chinese-style archway at the entrance is classic, and red lanterns hang along the street, extending into the plaza to create a rich Eastern atmosphere. Most shop signs along the street retain Chinese character designs, with restaurants, shops, and traditional craft stores interspersed, making visitors feel as if they are in a nostalgic overseas Chinese community. The combination of exquisite murals, traditional elements, and public spaces makes this street not only a commercial district but also an urban space that showcases Chinese art and culture. It brings together a rich variety of Asian culinary culture, from traditional Cantonese dim sum and roasted meats to various Chinese restaurants, and even small eateries with Vietnamese flavors that blend Southeast Asian influences, all of which can satisfy the taste buds of different visitors.Los Angeles · 12.8km from Pasadena
Old Pasadena
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Pasadena

Old Pasadena

4.5
4.5/5
17 reviews
Old Pasadena is one of the area's iconic historical, cultural, and commercial districts. Established in the late 19th century, it was once an important commercial hub in Southern California. Following urban renewal and historic preservation efforts, it now retains a large number of Victorian and early 20th-century brick buildings, blending modern shopping, dining, and entertainment facilities to become a key destination for visitors to experience the urban charm of Pasadena. Its core area centers on Colorado Boulevard and the surrounding streets, bringing together numerous boutique shops, international brands, independent bookstores, art galleries, cafes, and specialty restaurants. It retains the architectural style of a historic district while being full of modern urban vitality. The streets are paved with red brick sidewalks, and the facades of historic buildings have been meticulously restored. Strolling through them, you can appreciate the exquisite architectural details and the rich cultural atmosphere.Pasadena · 535m from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Pasadena

Featured Day tours in Pasadena

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Los angeles 1-day tour to The Getty Villa, University of Southern California and California Institute of Technology
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FromNZD 264.58
Pasadena Ghost Tour: Purgatory Phantoms
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4.3/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 1 hr
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
FromNZD 40.34NZD 42.47
Los Angeles: Old Pasadena Food & Tasting Walking Tour
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4.9/5
· 8 reviews
Duration: 3.5 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromNZD 218.44NZD 229.94
Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus
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4.8/5
· 2.2k reviews· 67 booked
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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94.8% of travelers recommend
FromNZD 69.04
Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach
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4.4/5
· 243 reviews· 121 booked
Duration: 135 mins
English
Free cancellation
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27 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 68.59
Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Celebrity Homes Open Air Van Tour
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4.5/5
· 110 reviews· 26 booked
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 51.34
Hollywood Open Bus Tours
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4.6/5
· 847 reviews· 23 booked
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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90.7% of travelers recommend
FromNZD 69.04

Featured Food & drink in Pasadena

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Los Angeles: Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 35+ Attractions
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromNZD 158.00NZD 166.32
Newport Beach: City Cruises Champagne & Brunch Buffet Cruise
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
FromNZD 190.05NZD 200.06
Los Angeles #1: Luxury Boat Cruise-Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 1–1.5 hrs
Free cancellation
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5% off
Limited-time sale
FromNZD 250.35NZD 263.53

Featured Cultural experiences in Pasadena

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2-Hour Hollywood, West Hollywood and Beverly Hills Open Bus Tour
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4.4/5
· 293 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 69.04
Hollywood and Celebrity Homes Bus Tour
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4.3/5
· 556 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 69.04
Hollywood Stars Tour: Walk of Fame, Celebrity Homes, Sunset Strip
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4.3/5
· 334 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
English
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FromNZD 61.96

Featured City sightseeing in Pasadena

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Los Angeles Hollywood Big Bus hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus
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4.0/5
· 3 reviews· 152 booked
English
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FromNZD 85.27
Los Angeles and Hollywood City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour in the United States
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FromNZD 82.39
True Crime Los Angeles: LAPD, Cold Cases & Dark History Walking Tour
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Duration: 2 mins
English
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FromNZD 69.04
Long Beach Audio Tour: City Stories from Shoreline to Skyline
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Duration: 1.5 hrs
English
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20% off
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FromNZD 7.94NZD 9.93

Free things to do in Pasadena

What travellers say about Pasadena

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205***5216 October 2026
5.0
Actually, the queue wasn't too long, but the speed pass saved a lot of time. It was easy to buy and the entry was smooth. The most fun ride was Mario. The roller coaster looked a bit scary, and although I was tempted, it wasn't suitable for older people, so I skipped it. Los Angeles is too sunny, so be sure to take precautions against the sun.

Universal Studios Hollywood

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notmaxp29 August 2026
5.0
Business Hours:Address:Tips:Reasons to Recommend:Reasons to Recommend: Griffith observatory please

Griffith Observatory

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yangduoduo1729 January 2021
4.0
A very suitable place to enjoy the night view of Los Angeles, you can overlook the night view of the entire Los Angeles, but it is often crowded here, so you have to squeeze out a spot by yourself~ It was a bit foggy when we came, and the weather was not very good, but you can still enjoy a good night view. It is said that this is the filming location of the movie Lalaland. Friends who are interested can come to make a pilgrimage!

Griffith Park

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Scott_L3 October 2026
5.0
The place is really worth visiting so much nostalgia comes flooding back. There is a great bus tour of the outside where you see all of the sets that they use and which shows they are filming using them. There is a Jurassic park tunnel which is quite thrilling when you go through it and also the friends and big bangs sets which you can take pictures. Just one thing for the solo travelers, I needed a friend as they helped me take a picture by blasting the light in my face to take the picture with my phone , it didn't come out good. I needed the side angle which the professional uses but unfortunately I was traveling solo. It was a great experience and I loved it!

Warner Bros. Studios Tour Hollywood

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学校🏫5 June 2025
5.0
Real "filter" test: Besieged by commercial noise: The streets are filled with cheap souvenir shops, high-decibel music, and artists selling CDs, and the environment is noisy and chaotic. The romantic imagination of "starlight" is easily shattered by reality. Expectation management is crucial: don't expect to meet a star (the probability is very small) or bump into a movie shoot. The Avenue of Stars is essentially a memorial landmark, not a theme park. Trap area tips: Be careful of high-priced and low-cost attractions such as wax museums and horror houses; be wary of those who actively approach and provide "services". Is it worth going? The key lies in the purpose: Hardcore movie fans/film history enthusiasts: must go! *The feeling of touching the idol's mark with your own hands and being in the Oscar Hall is irreplaceable. Tourists who check in Los Angeles for the first time: You can go, but strictly control the time and expectations. Focus on the ritual of "star hunting" (reserve 1 hour), visit the exterior of the Chinese Theater, and look at the mountain landmark from a distance, and regard it as a cultural symbol check-in point. *Those who seek in-depth cultural experience/hate crowded and noisy: choose carefully or avoid it. The noise may be far beyond

Hollywood Walk of Fame

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JojoinSG28 August 2023
5.0
Hollywood is a sight to see in the day. Lots of souvenir shops and photo moments but according to my friend it is not a place to be in the night. I am glad I got to see it.

Hollywood

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moxiaoya4 November 2019
4.0
This railway is known as the shortest mountain railway in the world, with a total length of 99 meters. The railway is built on the slopes of Bunker Hill in Los Angeles. The railway is built at a 30° angle. The railway connects Hill Street and Oliver Street. The railway has been in operation since 1901. The railway was once listed in the National Register of Historic Places of the United States. It was renovated because of the filming of the movie "La La Land" and then officially opened as a tourist attraction in September 2017. This railway is just opposite the Central Market and is easy to see. In addition, the railway and train are mainly orange, so they are very eye-catching and especially suitable for taking pictures. Although the viewing is only a matter of a few minutes, I think it is necessary to check in since it is so convenient. There are so many snacks in the Central Market, it is also necessary to try them.

Angels Flight Railway

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NoahRichardJohn6 August 2021
5.0
The first thing you see is Japanese-style buildings and a lot of Japanese comics clothing stores. For me, I just strolled around and took in the scenery. If you want to park, the cheapest parking is on the roadside at S Central Ave. It's $5/h.

Little Tokyo

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可爱长大的仙女y16 June 2023
5.0
Chinatown is an area where Chinese people live in cities in other countries. Chinatown was formed because Chinese people immigrated overseas and became a local minority. In the face of the new environment, they needed to work together and lived in one area. Therefore, most Chinatowns are a testimony to the history of overseas Chinese.

Chinatown

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SUNSHINE ONUS6 January 2026
4.0
Pasadena is a very old city, yet its urban development is remarkably modern. The streets are clean and tidy, the buildings bright and modern, both old and new, are uniquely designed, offering stunning architecture and interior design from every angle. There are no skyscrapers or ostentatious facades, but its captivating atmosphere makes it a place you want to linger and take memorable photos.

Old Pasadena

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Frequently asked questions

You can give Los Angeles: Old Pasadena Food & Tasting Walking Tour and Los Angeles: Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 35+ Attractions a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Norton Simon Museum + California Institute of Technology + Griffith Observatory 1-day tour | Admission ticket not included, Los angeles 1-day tour to The Getty Villa, University of Southern California and California Institute of Technology, and Pasadena Ghost Tour: Purgatory Phantoms. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 18 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Pasadena is around NZD 40.34 – NZD 264.58. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

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