Gardens & parks in California

Filoli is a historic villa from the early 20th century that is protected as a monument. It boasts an extraordinary garden and park area that spans approximately 2.6 km². The villa is nestled in the mountains between San José and San Francisco, in Woodside, California. This location offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The M.H. de Young Museum is one of two museums in San Francisco that are part of the overarching Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. The other museum is the California Palace of the Legion of Honor located in Lincoln Park. These two museums together offer a comprehensive experience of fine arts in the city.

The California State Capitol Museum is situated in the heart of Sacramento, California. This historic site encompasses the California State Capitol building and its surrounding grounds. As a visitor, you will have the opportunity to explore the rich history and architectural beauty of the Capitol building, as well as the lush gardens and memorials in the surrounding park.

The Huntington Library, situated in San Marino, California, is more than just a library. Founded by Henry E. Huntington, it serves as an educational and research institute. Apart from its extensive library, it also boasts an art collection that includes English figures and 18th-century French furniture. Additionally, it is home to beautiful botanical gardens, making it a diverse destination for tourists.

Joshua Tree National Park is situated in the southern part of California, United States. It is positioned to the east of the region between Los Angeles and San Diego, and north of Palm Springs. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting these popular cities.

The San Diego Botanic Garden, previously known as Quail Botanical Gardens, is a botanical garden situated in Encinitas, California. Spanning 37 acres, this garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, explore diverse plant species, and learn about different ecosystems.

The Griffith Observatory is a renowned planetarium and observatory located on Hollywood Mountain in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. This iconic location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the cosmos and learn about the universe. The observatory is a significant part of Los Angeles' cultural and scientific heritage, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in astronomy and space exploration.

The International Art Museum of America (IAMA), previously known as the Superb Art Museum of America, is situated at 1023 Market Street, nestled between 6th and 7th Streets in the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood of San Francisco, California. This location is easily accessible and is in a vibrant area of the city, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring San Francisco.

The San Francisco Botanical Garden, previously known as the Strybing Arboretum, is a significant attraction located within the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, offering a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of plant species from around the world.

The John Muir National Historic Site is situated in the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically in Martinez, Contra Costa County, California. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and work of the renowned naturalist and writer, John Muir.

The Humboldt Botanical Garden, located south of Eureka, California, spans an impressive 44.5 acres. This expansive garden offers a diverse range of plant life and scenic views, making it a unique destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Arboretum and Botanical Garden of Los Angeles County is a botanical park nestled in the hills near the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles, California. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal destination for those who love nature and want to explore the diverse flora of the region.

The USC Pacific Asia Museum is an Asian art museum situated at 46 N. Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena, California, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore Asian art and culture.

The César E. Chávez National Monument, also known as Nuestra Señora Reina de la Paz, is a significant site located in Keene, Kern County, California. It spans across 116 acres and is approximately 32 miles away from Bakersfield, California. This monument is a tribute to the life and work of César Chávez, a prominent figure in the United Farm Workers movement.

MOLAA is situated in downtown Long Beach, California. The museum is housed in a modern structure designed by Mexican architect Manuel Rosen. It features four galleries, a contemporary project space, and an outdoor sculpture garden. These spaces provide a diverse and dynamic environment for visitors to explore and appreciate Latin American and Latino art.

The Sherman Library and Gardens is an educational and research institution located in Newport Beach, California. It houses both a library and a botanical garden, offering a unique blend of nature and knowledge. The facility is situated on the Pacific Coast Highway in the Corona del Mar neighborhood, nestled within a small park near the Pacific Ocean. It provides a serene and enriching environment for visitors to explore and learn.

Descanso Gardens is a preserved area of Chaparral, Rose Garden, Japanese garden, and botanical garden spanning 150 acres in La Cañada Flintridge, California, USA. It includes 80 acres of cultivated land and 80 acres of natural hillside chaparral. This former private estate, now owned by Los Angeles County and operated by the non-profit Descanso Gardens Guild, is internationally known as the home of the largest camellia collection in the United States.

Ganna Walska Lotusland, often simply referred to as Lotusland, is a non-profit botanical garden situated in Montecito, close to Santa Barbara, California. This garden is a unique destination for plant enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape in nature. It offers a diverse range of plant species and beautifully designed landscapes that can be explored at leisure.

The University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley is a sprawling 13.7 ha botanical garden situated on the University of California, Berkeley Campus. This expansive garden offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse range of plant species in a serene and educational environment.

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, located in Mission Canyon, Santa Barbara, California, is a vast 78-acre botanical garden. It is home to over 1,000 species of rare and indigenous plants, offering a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse flora. The garden's purpose is to display California native plants in natural settings, providing an authentic and immersive experience for visitors.

The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden, located on the southeastern corner of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) campus, spans across 7 acres and houses over 3,000 species of plants. This vast collection of flora offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about a wide variety of plant species in one location.

Sunnylands, previously known as the Annenberg Estate, is a sprawling 0.81 km² property located in Rancho Mirage, California. It is currently managed by The Annenberg Foundation Trust at Sunnylands, a foundation established by the Annenberg family. The estate is a testament to the Annenberg family's legacy and offers a unique glimpse into their lifestyle and contributions.

The San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, located in the Rose Garden District of San Jose, California, is a historic garden dedicated solely to roses. Established in 1927, the garden boasts over 3,500 shrubs that represent 189 different varieties of roses. This vast collection offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diversity of roses.

The Alta Vista Botanical Gardens is a sprawling 14-acre park and botanical garden nestled in the City of Vista, California. The management of this beautiful space is a joint effort between the city council and the park's management society. This collaboration ensures that the gardens are well-maintained and continue to serve as a haven for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

The Fullerton Arboretum is a botanical garden spanning 26 acres, located on the northeast corner of the California State University, Fullerton campus. It houses a diverse collection of plants from around the globe, making it a unique destination for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Sonoma Botanical Garden, formerly known as Quarryhill Botanical Garden, is a private nonprofit education and research botanical garden. It is renowned for housing one of the largest collections of scientifically documented, wild-source Asian plants in North America and Europe. This makes it a unique destination for plant enthusiasts and those interested in botany.

Turtle Bay Exploration Park, situated in Redding, California, is a unique blend of museums and natural spaces that aim to interpret and showcase the intricate relationships between humans and nature. The park offers a diverse range of attractions, from botanical gardens and arboretums to natural history and science museums, providing a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

The Ruth Bancroft Garden is a botanical garden that spans an area of 10,000 m². It specializes in plants that require low water consumption and is managed by the Garden Conservancy. This garden is a perfect place for those who are interested in botany, especially in plants that are adapted to survive in conditions with limited water availability.

Balboa Park Gardens, located in San Diego, California, is a public park that spans over 1,200 acres. It features numerous garden sections, an arboretum, and a botanical garden. The park is a great place for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Hakone Gardens, located in Saratoga, California, is an expansive 18-acre traditional Japanese garden. It holds the distinction of being one of the oldest Japanese-style residential gardens in the Western Hemisphere. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in Japanese culture and garden design.

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are situated in Fort Bragg, California, between California's Highway One and the Pacific Ocean. The gardens span an impressive 47 acres (19 hectares), offering a vast space for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The Villa Montalvo Arboretum is a sprawling 137-acre arboretum and botanical garden situated in Saratoga, California. This expansive green space offers a tranquil setting for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. The arboretum is home to a variety of forest types, including chaparral, evergreen, and redwood, and features a range of native trees from the Santa Cruz Mountains.

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a serene and beautiful location situated in Kelley Park, San José, California. This garden is a symbol of the friendship between the city of San José and its sister city, Okayama in Japan. It's a perfect place for tourists who are looking for a peaceful and tranquil environment amidst the bustling city life.

The Dunsmuir City Park and Botanical Gardens is a 10-acre area that is maintained by Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens Inc., a non-profit organization. The park is located within the city of Dunsmuir, California, near the famous Mount Shasta. This park and botanical garden is a municipal entity, meaning it is maintained for the benefit of the public and the local community.

The South Coast Botanic Garden is a sprawling 35.2-hectare (87 acres) botanical garden situated on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in California, USA. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, explore diverse plant species, and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

The University of California, Davis, Arboretum is a sprawling 100-acre arboretum that stretches along the banks of Putah Creek. It is located in the southern part of the UC Davis campus in Davis, California. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and academic research, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in both nature and science.

The San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden is unique in its collection of plants from the five Mediterranean climate zones. These zones include California, Chile, Australia, South Africa, and the countries of the Mediterranean basin. This diverse collection offers visitors a chance to explore and learn about a wide variety of plant species from around the world.

The California State University Northridge Botanic Garden is a botanical garden that spans 2.5 acres. It is dedicated to teaching and is managed by the University of California in Northridge, California, USA. The garden is located in the southeast quadrant of the campus of the only public university located in the San Fernando Valley. It is a place where visitors can learn about various plant species and their importance in our ecosystem.

The Japanese Garden, situated in Van Nuys, California, is a 6.5-acre botanical garden. It is nestled within the grounds of the Tillman Water Reclamation Plant in Los Angeles' Woodley Park. This serene location offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The Luther Burbank Home and Gardens is a city park that houses the former residence, greenhouse, gardens, and final resting place of the renowned American horticulturist, Luther Burbank. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and work of Burbank, who was responsible for introducing over 250 new varieties of fruit and numerous other plant species.

The Virginia Robinson Gardens is a unique combination of a landscaped work, historic mansion, and botanical garden. It is situated on the 6-acre estate of the Robinson family in Beverly Hills, California. This location offers a blend of history, architecture, and nature, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden is recognized as one of the most comprehensive sculpture parks in the United States. This distinction makes it a significant destination for those interested in sculpture and art in general.

The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden is a serene and beautifully maintained Japanese garden and botanical garden that spans 1.3 acres. It is situated on the campus of California State University in Long Beach, California. This tranquil space offers visitors a chance to experience a slice of Japanese culture and horticulture without leaving the United States.

Trees of Mystery is a unique park and tourist attraction located along U.S. Route 101, close to the coastal town of Klamath in California. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, with its Giant Redwoods and unusual tree formations. It's an ideal destination for those who appreciate nature and are interested in learning more about the local flora.

Will Rogers State Historic Park is a significant location as it was the former estate of the renowned American humorist, Will Rogers. The park is situated in the scenic Santa Monica Mountains in Los Angeles, specifically in the Pacific Palisades area. This location offers a unique blend of cultural history and natural beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

Kimberly Crest House and Gardens is a historic site located in Redlands, California. This French château-style Victorian mansion is not only a registered California Historical Landmark but is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its rich history and unique architectural style make it a fascinating destination for tourists.

The Forestiere Underground Gardens are a unique attraction located in Fresno, California. These subterranean structures were built by Baldassare Forestiere, an immigrant from Sicily, over a period of 40 years, from 1906 until his death in 1946. The gardens are a testament to Forestiere's dedication and creativity, offering visitors a chance to explore a unique underground world.

The Jensen Botanical Gardens, situated in Carmichael, California, spans across an area of 3.5 acres. Established in 1958 by Charles C. Jensen, the garden is a testament to his love for nature and his dedication to preserving it. The garden is open during daylight hours, making it a perfect spot for a daytime stroll amidst nature.

The Don Francisco Galindo House, also known as the Galindo House and Gardens, is a historical site located in Concord, California. The house was built in 1856 by Francisco Galindo and his wife, Maria Dolores Manuela (Pacheco) Galindo. This 19th-century house offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and lifestyle of the era.

The Gardens at Heather Farm are a unique collection of gardens situated within Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek, California. This location offers visitors a chance to explore a variety of plant life and landscaping styles in one place. The gardens are a part of the larger park, providing a serene and beautiful environment for relaxation and exploration.

The George Key Ranch Historic District, also known as Key Ranch, is a significant historical site located in Placentia, Orange County, California. This site includes a historic ranch and a Victorian ranch house, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to learn about the area's history.

Arlington Garden, located in Pasadena, California, is a 3-acre botanical garden that is open to the public for free. It is the only dedicated public garden in the city, making it a unique destination for those who appreciate nature and horticulture. The garden was first planted in 2005 and has since grown into a beautiful and practical demonstration of water-conserving and climate-appropriate gardening.

The Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is a unique botanical garden that spans across 86 acres. It specializes in endemic plants of California, offering a unique opportunity to explore the state's native flora. The garden is divided into three different areas: Indian Hill Mesa, East Alluvial Gardens, and Plant Communities, each showcasing different types of native Californian plants.

The Ventura Botanical Gardens, a sprawling 107-acre garden, is situated at 567 S. Poli Street in Ventura, California. The gardens were reopened on November 3, 2018, after undergoing extensive repairs due to the damage caused by the Thomas Fire. The gardens are home to a vast collection of approximately 100,000 plants, making it a significant destination for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The Mexican Heritage Plaza, also known as Centro Cultural de San José, is a cultural center dedicated to Chicano and Mexican-American heritage. It is located in the Mayfair neighborhood of East San Jose, California. This cultural center provides a space for the community to engage with and learn about the rich history and contributions of Chicano and Mexican-American culture.

Fresno Discovery Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit family science center open to the public in Fresno, California since 1954. Our property has 5.5 acres of outdoor exhibits, play structures, gardens, and animals to visit in a park setting. Our indoor Science Center provides science exploration through e

The Regional Parks Botanic Garden, situated in Berkeley, California, spans an impressive 40,000 square meters. This expansive garden is home to a diverse range of plant species native to the state of California, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the state's rich botanical heritage.

The University of California, Santa Cruz, Arboretum, also known as CSUSC Arboretum, is a botanical garden and arboretum situated on the campus of the University of California in Santa Cruz, USA. It is a place where visitors can explore a diverse range of plant species and enjoy the natural beauty of the campus.

The Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden is a serene oasis nestled within the larger Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach, California. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the botanical garden and enjoy the amenities of the park in one visit. The garden is easily accessible and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

The Conejo Valley Botanic Garden, situated in Thousand Oaks, California, is a unique blend of peak views and 15 hillside botanical gardens. This combination offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature from different perspectives. The garden's location on a peak provides stunning vista views, while the 15 hillside botanical gardens each offer a unique collection of flora.

The Leo Carrillo Historic Park, formerly known as Rancho de los Quiotes, is a historic estate located near Carbslbad, California. It was originally built as a weekend retreat for the actor Leo Carrillo. The park offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle of the famous actor and his love for Spanish hacienda-style architecture.

The Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden is a vast 38-acre botanical garden located in Avalon, California. It is managed by the Catalina Island Conservancy, a conservation organization dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Santa Catalina Island. The garden is a testament to the organization's commitment to conservation and offers visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of plant species in a serene and beautiful setting.

The Robert Jack House is a historic site located at 536 Marsh St. in San Luis Obispo, California. This two-story house is designed in the Italianate style, a popular architectural style during the 19th century. The house's design and history make it a significant landmark in the city.

The Dallidet Adobe and Gardens, located in San Luis Obispo, California, is recognized as a California Historical Landmark. This designation is a testament to its historical significance and the role it has played in the state's history.

MOLAA is situated in downtown Long Beach, California. The museum is housed in a modern structure designed by Mexican architect Manuel Rosen. It features four galleries, a contemporary project space, and an outdoor sculpture garden, providing a diverse range of spaces to explore and appreciate Latin American art.

The Museum of Sonoma County, also known as the Sonoma County Museum, is a non-profit organization situated in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa, California. This museum is a significant cultural destination in the region, offering a rich blend of art and history through its diverse collections and exhibitions.

Casa Romantica, also known as the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, is a historic building and nonprofit organization situated in San Clemente, California. The center is dedicated to providing a variety of cultural programs to the public. As a historic site, it offers a unique glimpse into the past, while its status as a nonprofit organization ensures its commitment to enriching the community through culture and education.

Blake Garden, situated in Kensington, California, is a sprawling 10.9-acre arboretum and botanical garden. This lush green space offers a tranquil setting for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse flora it houses.

The entire 11-acre site of Casa del Herrero, including the house, gardens, and various collections, is managed by the non-profit organization, the Casa del Herrero Foundation. The foundation's mission is to preserve the estate's historical and cultural significance. This includes maintaining the house and gardens, as well as preserving a vast collection of antiques, books, family sketchbooks, drawings, and horticultural records that provide a glimpse into the past.

The Sequoia Park Zoo is situated in Eureka, California, and is managed by the City of Eureka. This zoo is part of a larger park complex that includes a 60-acre mature second-growth coast redwood forest, Eureka's largest public playground, a duck pond, and both formal and natural gardens. The zoo is open to the public daily, except in winter when it is closed on Mondays.

A well-preserved and restored farm house with a barn and landscaped gardens will remind you of the glorious farming era in Santa Clara.

Before setting on to the Santa Monica Mountains, get the latest info in the centre. In the summer you can assist at the campfires.

Micke Grove Zoo, located in Lodi, California, is a small 5-acre zoo that was established in 1957. The zoo is part of the larger Micke Grove Regional Park, which also includes a Japanese Garden, the San Joaquin County Historical Society and Museum, an amusement park, and facilities for picnics and Frisbee golf. This makes it a versatile destination for tourists, offering a variety of attractions beyond the zoo itself.