Consider going with a group. Not sure where you plan on staying but many small cities/communities offer group trips to the Rose Bowl.. I know my city of 20K people does through the Parks and Recreation Dept.
You travel to and from on a large bus (bathroom is important), have reserved seating in bleachers right on the parade route; which are excellent. I think our city charged $75/person a couple years ago.
Driving, finding parking, then individual seating wherever can be a nightmare.
There are also large groups (Good Sam, etc.) which you can join, but sometime the cost is pretty big.
Whatever you decide DO go. It is a fantastic experience.