Los Angeles is known for many things – its beaches, theme parks, and Hollywood. However, what many visitors and locals may not know is that the city is also home to some of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the country. From sprawling estates to intimate urban oases, explore the city’s hidden gems and reconnect with the beauty of nature with one of these botanical gardens in Los Angeles.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an avid photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this guide to the best botanical gardens in Los Angeles has got you covered.
THE BEST BOTANICAL GARDENS IN LOS ANGELES:
1. Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
301 North Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007
The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a 127-acre garden located in Arcadia. The garden is home to over 10,000 plant species from around the world, as well as several historic buildings and sculptures. Visitors can explore several distinct gardens, including the Tropical Greenhouse, the Aquatic Garden, and the Rose Garden.
2. Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Located in La Cañada Flintridge, Descanso Gardens is a 150-acre garden featuring a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a California native garden. The garden also includes several hiking trails and a historic mansion that is open for tours.
During the winter months, visit the Enchanted of Light at Descanso Gardens which is a nighttime, interactive experience where you can walk through a mile loop path of unique light experience.
3. Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, CA 91108
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a 207-acre estate located in San Marino. The garden features several distinct gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a Chinese garden. Visitors can also explore the library’s rare book and manuscript collections, as well as the art museum’s extensive collection of European and American art.
4. South Coast Botanic Garden
26300 Crenshaw Boulevard, Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
The South Coast Botanic Garden is an 87-acre garden located in the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The garden features over 2,500 plant species, including a variety of succulents, cacti, and California natives. The garden also includes several hiking trails and a children’s garden.
5. Virginia Robinson Gardens
1008 Elden Way Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Located in Beverly Hills, the Virginia Robinson Gardens is a 6-acre garden featuring a variety of plant species, as well as a historic mansion and pool. Visitors can explore several themed gardens, including a rose garden, a tropical garden, and a palm garden.
6. The Getty Center
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, USA
Located in Los Angeles, the Getty Center is a museum and garden complex featuring several gardens, including a Central Garden designed by artist Robert Irwin. The Central Garden features a maze of plants, a water feature, and stunning views of the city.
7. The Getty Villa
17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, USA
The Getty Villa is a museum and garden complex located in Pacific Palisades. The garden features several gardens, including a Roman-inspired herb garden and a Mediterranean garden. Visitors can also explore the museum’s collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art and artifacts.
8. UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden
707 Tiverton Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095
Located on the UCLA campus, the UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden features over 3,000 plant species, including a collection of California native plants and a tropical greenhouse. The garden also includes several ponds and a waterfall. Garden admission is free.
9. Storrier Sterns Japanese Garden
270 Arlington Drive, Pasadena, California 91105
Located in Pasadena, the Storrier Sterns Japanese Garden is a stunning 1.5-acre garden originally designed in the 1930s by Japanese landscape architect Kinzuchi Fujii and was recently restored to its former glory by the Storrier Sterns Foundation. The garden features a pond filled with koi fish, a tea house, and several walking paths that wind through lush greenery and towering bamboo. Visitors can experience the tranquility and beauty of traditional Japanese gardens without ever leaving the city.
These are just a few of the best botanical gardens in Los Angeles. Each garden offers a unique experience, so be sure to visit them all if you can.
