Arboretums are peaceful places for families to explore. Don't let your vacation be too packed with activities, take some time to unwind and wandering through one of the many arboretums that Southern California has to offer.
The Huntington Botanical Gardens
With 207 acres of gardens, the Huntington Botanical Gardens is home to more than 14,000 varieties of plants. Located in the Los Angeles area, this expansive garden is nestled in an unassuming urban neighborhood. The site was originally a ranch that was purchased by Henry Huntington in 1903. In 2010, the history of the area was rejuvenated in a project called Huntington Ranch. With a focus on sustainability, it includes an outdoor classroom, demonstration garden, and research lab.
While strolling through the gardens, visitors will encounter the following fourteen themed gardens:
- Australian
- Camelia
- Children's
- Chinese
- Conservatory
- Desert
- Herb
- Japanese
- Jungle
- Lily Ponds
- Rose
- Shakespeare
- Subtropical.
Explore the gardens on your own or enjoy one of the many tours available, including the Tea & Tour package that includes a 90-minute docent-led tour followed by traditional English tea in the Huntington's Rose Garden Tea Room. For those wanting a bit more culture, check out the extensive art collection at the Huntington Art Gallery.
Sherman Library & Gardens
Although smaller in size than some more better-known gardens, the charming Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona Del Mar is worth a visit. With 2.2 acres, the garden feels more like being in someone's well-manicured backyard with walkways, fountains and flowers. The collection of plants includes various species from around the world. Some of the gardens featured on the property include the following:
- Cactus and Succulent
- Tropical Conservatory
- Rose Garden
- Fern Grotto
- Japanese Garden
- Herb Garden.
One of the most delightful features that distinguishes it from other gardens is the Cafe Jardin. Owned by renowned Chef Pascal Olhats, the cafe serves what they call "coastal cuisine." On the last Wednesday of each month, guests can partake in a High Tea.
Fullerton Arboretum
Located on 26 acres, the Fullerton Arboretum and Botanic Garden features more than 4,000 plants. Enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the 26-acre gardens located at the California State University campus in Fullerton, California. As the largest botanical garden in Orange County, visitors will delight in spending an hour or an entire day exploring the various types of landscaping.
The botanical gardens are divided into four collections: Cultivated, Woodlands, Mediterranean, and Desert.
- The Cultivated gardens include rare fruits, an herb garden, roses, and oranges.
- The Woodlands includes conifers, palms, a deciduous forest, living fossils, Redwoods, Ombu, figs, and cycads.
- The Mediterranean collections includes chaparral and Channel Islands plants.
- The Desert garden features opuntia (cactus) and agave plants.
In the center of the arboretum is the well-loved Community Garden with plots planted and tended by local community members. There is also a children's garden with kid-friendly exhibits. Before heading home, be sure to stop by the Potting Shed nursery to pick up a plant to take home and enjoy.
If your family is visiting the Southern California area, be sure to take advantage of the sunny weather and explore the beautiful gardens in the area.
Sharael Kolberg - With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of Hawaii, Sharael combines her interest in family travel with her passion for ...
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