Los Angeles, often known for its bustling urban scene, is also home to some of the most serene and beautiful gardens in the country. As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring these green havens, I’ve come to see these spaces as essential escapes from the fast pace of the city. Each garden and park has a unique atmosphere, offering different experiences, services, and settings that cater to everyone, from dedicated nature lovers to those looking for a peaceful spot to unwind. I’ll take you through my top three personal favorites in Los Angeles and recommend three other must-visit gardens to experience tranquility.
1. Descanso Gardens: A Journey Through Nature and Art
Location:
1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
How to Get There
Descanso Gardens is located in La Cañada Flintridge, around 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles by car. If you’re flying into LAX, you’ll need about 45 minutes by car (traffic permitting) to reach the gardens. From Union Station, I recommend taking the Metro Gold Line to Pasadena, then transferring to a local bus or ride-share service for the final stretch. Parking at Descanso is free, which is a rare bonus for Los Angeles attractions!
Admission & Hours
Descanso Gardens is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is $15 for adults, $11 for seniors and students, and $5 for children ages 5-12, with free entry for members and children under 5. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, especially useful during weekends when the gardens are more crowded.
Personal Highlights
Stepping into Descanso Gardens feels like walking into a world that blends art and nature harmoniously. The gardens span over 150 acres, each section showcasing different flora and thematic landscaping. Here are my top areas within the gardens:
The Japanese Garden
- The Japanese Garden is an absolute must-see. Complete with koi ponds, bonsai displays, and a peaceful teahouse, this section has an undeniable serenity. I find that early mornings, when the sunlight filters through the bamboo and cherry trees, are the best times for a quiet visit.
The Rose Garden
- Featuring over 1,600 roses, this area is simply stunning, especially in late spring when the blooms are at their peak. Each color and variety has a unique scent, and walking along the paths here is a sensory delight. I love spending time here with a book, enveloped by the fragrance of roses.
Oak Woodland
- This area feels like a more natural, less curated part of the garden, filled with native California plants and ancient oaks. It’s ideal for a peaceful stroll and a great spot for birdwatching, especially in the early mornings.
Services and Amenities
Descanso Gardens has a charming on-site café, offering fresh pastries, coffee, and seasonal dishes that incorporate ingredients from the gardens. I appreciate how eco-conscious the staff is, providing compostable utensils and encouraging visitors to recycle. There’s also a gift shop with unique garden-inspired items, from botanical prints to eco-friendly gardening tools.
Pros:
- Beautiful, varied landscapes with something for every season
- Free parking and affordable admission
- Wonderful café and well-curated gift shop
Cons:
- Weekends can be crowded, which detracts from the tranquility
- Some trails can be challenging for strollers and wheelchairs
Pro Tip:
Visit during spring for the Rose Garden’s peak bloom, and consider a membership if you plan on visiting multiple times a year—it’s worth it for the discounts and free entry.
2. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Location:
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108
How to Get There
Located in San Marino, The Huntington is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles. If you’re coming from LAX, expect around a 50-minute drive. From Union Station, you can take the Metro Gold Line to Pasadena and then a bus or ride-share to San Marino. On-site parking is free, and it’s typically easy to find a spot.
Admission & Hours
The Huntington is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 AM to 5 PM, with Tuesday being the only closed day. Admission fees are on the higher side, with adults at $29 on weekdays and $32 on weekends. Senior, student, and youth tickets are slightly discounted, while children under 4 are free.
Personal Highlights
I could spend an entire day at The Huntington without seeing everything; it’s a true paradise for those who love both art and nature. Here’s what I love most about this place:
The Desert Garden
- One of the largest and oldest outdoor collections of cacti and succulents in the world, this garden is nothing short of mesmerizing. I find myself lost in the unique shapes and colors of these resilient plants, some of which are rare and exotic species.
The Chinese Garden (Liu Fang Yuan)
- This garden, aptly named the Garden of Flowing Fragrance, is a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscape design. With a large lake, beautiful pavilions, and winding paths, it’s an incredibly peaceful area. My favorite feature is the covered bridge that offers a panoramic view of the entire garden.
The Rose Garden Tea Room
- The tea room is a must-visit for anyone interested in a full afternoon tea experience. It overlooks the Rose Garden, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal. Reservations are necessary, as this is one of the most popular dining spots.
Services and Amenities
The Huntington offers several dining options, with the Rose Garden Tea Room being the highlight. There’s also a bookstore and gift shop featuring a wide range of books, prints, and plant-themed souvenirs. The Huntington’s art museum and library also hold rare manuscripts and works by renowned artists, adding to the richness of the visit.
Pros:
- Stunning, diverse garden landscapes
- Free parking and easy access
- Great dining options with a tea room overlooking the Rose Garden
Cons:
- Higher admission cost
- Large size means it requires significant walking
Pro Tip:
Arrive early to avoid the midday crowd, and prioritize which sections you want to see. It’s nearly impossible to cover the entire property in one visit.
3. Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Location:
301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007
How to Get There
The Arboretum is in Arcadia, roughly a 30-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles. From LAX, it’s about 45 minutes by car. If you’re using public transit, take the Metro Gold Line to Arcadia Station, and from there it’s a short bus or taxi ride. Parking here is free and ample.
Admission & Hours
The Arboretum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. Admission costs $15 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $5 for children aged 5-12, making it an affordable family outing.
Personal Highlights
The Arboretum feels like a wild, untamed landscape filled with fascinating plants and wildlife. Here are the areas I particularly enjoy:
The Queen Anne Cottage and Coach Barn
- This historic Victorian cottage is like something out of a storybook. Surrounded by blooming flowers and peacocks strutting about, it’s one of the most photographed spots at the Arboretum. I always find myself drawn to its timeless charm.
Tropical Greenhouse
- This greenhouse is home to some of the rarest and most exotic tropical plants. Walking through it, you’re enveloped in humidity and surrounded by vibrant orchids, ferns, and palm trees. It’s like stepping into a miniature jungle.
Peacock Walk
- The Arboretum is famous for its population of free-roaming peacocks. Watching these beautiful birds roam freely is a delight, and their vibrant colors add a splash of character to the already lush environment.
Services and Amenities
The Arboretum offers a café with a good selection of sandwiches, salads, and drinks. There’s also a plant shop where visitors can buy unique plants and seeds to take a piece of the Arboretum home with them. Guided tours are available for a deeper understanding of the various plant species and the property’s history.
Pros:
- Large, diverse landscape with a natural feel
- Affordable admission and free parking
- Unique animal sightings, especially peacocks
Cons:
- Some areas can be crowded during peak times
- Limited dining options
Pro Tip:
Spring is the best time to visit for vibrant blooms. Bring a camera to capture the peacocks and the Queen Anne Cottage!
Recommended Gardens for Future Visits
While I have my personal favorites, Los Angeles boasts several other gardens worth visiting. Here are three that come highly recommended:
4. Los Angeles State Historic Park
Located in the heart of Chinatown, this park spans 32 acres of open space, offering a stunning view of downtown LA’s skyline. It’s not your typical botanical garden, but its natural landscape and proximity to the city make it a peaceful retreat. With walking trails, picnic areas, and occasional events, it’s perfect for a quick escape from the urban hustle. You can easily reach it by taking the Metro Gold Line to Chinatown Station.
5. South Coast Botanic Garden
In Palos Verdes Peninsula, South Coast Botanic Garden features a wide variety of plant collections, including a vibrant desert garden and a serene Japanese garden. It’s less crowded than other LA gardens, making it ideal for a quiet, reflective visit. A car is necessary, but it’s worth the scenic drive along the coast.
6. Virginia Robinson Gardens
Nestled in Beverly Hills, this garden is LA’s oldest estate garden. With tropical and Mediterranean sections, it’s a tranquil paradise in a luxurious setting. However, you’ll need to book a guided tour in advance, as self-guided visits are not allowed.
Los Angeles is home to a wealth of green spaces, each offering a unique experience for nature lovers and peace-seekers. Whether you’re seeking an immersive botanical experience, a quiet space to unwind, or a place to explore with family, these gardens provide a perfect balance of beauty and tranquility in the heart of the city.
