Oh, this beautiful city of Los Angeles with so many activities, things to do, and places to explore!
It is also filled with a secret treasure. LA has a wide variety of Botanical Gardens in different parts of the city that we can take a peaceful stroll around and take in all their gorgeous displays.
Of course, you can expect flowers, exotic plants, tress, butterflies, pretty birds and some have even more extraordinary sights like peacocks and hawks!
Get on some comfy kicks and be ready to snap some instaworthy pics when you visit the marvelous botanical gardens of Los Angeles!
1 – The LA Arboretum
Description:
Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is 127 acres of plants and wildlife near the San Gabriel Mountains.
It is located all the way in Arcadia but it’s worth the trip with plenty of beauty and paths perfect for wedding and other special event pictures.
This botanical garden offers special displays and events throughout the year including our favorite, the incredible Moonlight Forest.
This is a spectacular fantasy of lights exhibit and nightly live entertainment and happens in the Winter.
Location: 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA 91007
Pic Credit: @laarboretum
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Want to visit the LA Arboretum for free? Every 3rd Tuesday of the month they offer free admission!
But keep in mind this has become very popular so you need to make a reservation online first to visit on a free day.
2 – Descanso Gardens
Description:
This urban retreat encompasses 150 acres, displays more than 3,000 roses, winter camellias, and all year round oaks. There is always something beautiful blooming in this majestic botanical garden.
General admission is $15 and discounts are provided for seniors and students. Children 5-12 $5 and free for younger kids.
Come and spend the day, and grab a bite at The Kitchen at Descanso, which offers a delightful menu including white chicken chili, avocado toast, and many other delicious choices.
Location: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
PIC Credit: @descansogardens
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Just like the LA Arboretum Descano Gardens offers free admission on the 3rd Tuesday of each month.
And they also require online. reservations in advance.
3 – South Coast Botanic Garden
Description:
Another of our favorite gardens is the South Coast Botanic Garden, more than 2,000 species of plants from around the world are found there.
While this is one of the lesser known on our list, its very popular with residents of the South Bay where its located.
One of the most popular attractions within the garden is the Garden of the Senses where visitors are invited to touch and smell the plants.
Bring binoculars and watch magnificent birds as you walk around the garden appreciating the beautiful trees, plants, and flowers.
Location: 26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
PIC Credit: @roquemore
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Another Botanical garden and another 3rd Tuesday of free admission. Sensing a theme here?
Click here to reserve your South Coast Garden free admission day online.
4 – The Japanese Garden
Description:
This beautiful garden displays waterfalls, lakes, and stone gardens which makes it very serene and inviting for meditation and relaxation.
It’s a popular venue also for special events such as professional photography, weddings and so forth. Admission is only $5 and $3 for seniors and children.
Enjoy this precious place all year round. Water lilies and lotus flowers bloom during the summer time. It also has bridges of different styles, a tea house, and a tea garden.
Location: 6100 Woodley Ave, Lake Balboa, CA 91406
PIC Credit: @monicatr_1
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Needing engagement or special event pictures? On Saturday mornings only, you can access the garden to take these special pictures in this incredible place! The cost is $300 for 2 hours.
More information can be found here.
5 – Virginia Robinson Gardens
Description:
A unique historic place in Beverly Hills that opens to the public by appointment only. It was built in 1911 as a private residential mansion and today is a beautiful garden visited constantly by tourists and locals.
It is located in Beverly Hills and it’s rich in plants, flowers and it even has a vegetable garden. The Garden tour includes displays created by interior designers and talented florists.
Children are welcome and students from second to fifth grade have access to programs that include a science-based learning experience and sensory activities that allow them to observe, smell, and taste plants.
Location: 1008 Elden Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
PIC Credit: @donnalivingstondesign
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Unlike the other gardens on this list, Virginia Robison does not allow for self-guided tours. As of this writing, you can only see it with a reserved docent-led tour which is about 90 minutes and costs $15 per adult.
While you cannot roam freely, on the bright side you are sure to learn the details of its fascinating history.
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!