Los Angeles in Bloom: 5 Must-See Botanical Gardens

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Los Angeles is more than just a city of stars and traffic. It’s also a haven for nature lovers. You can find some of the most beautiful botanical gardens here, each with unique collections of plants and special seasonal events. LA botanical gardens are great places to unwind, learn, and enjoy the outdoors. If you’re planning to explore LA botanical gardens this fall, here are five must-see spots and what they offer from October to December 2024.

Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens, located in La Cañada Flintridge, is a 150-acre property known for its varied landscapes and plant collections. It features oak woodlands, a beautiful rose garden, and an enchanting Japanese-style garden. This fall, the gardens will host the popular “Carved” event from October 4 to 30, 2024. During “Carved,” the gardens transform into a magical pumpkin wonderland. Thousands of pumpkins, carved into intricate designs, light up the night along a mile-long trail. Visitors will see everything from traditional jack-o’-lanterns to pumpkins sculpted into giant sea creatures and fairy tale houses. It’s an excellent event for families, couples, and anyone who loves Halloween.

If you visit in November or December, you can also enjoy “Enchanted: Forest of Light,” which runs from November 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025. This event features a one-mile walk through different light displays set up around the garden, each one interactive and unique. Walk through a tunnel of lights, see illuminated oak trees, and explore glowing landscapes. Make sure to book tickets in advance; both events tend to sell out quickly.

Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden

The LA County Arboretum is located in Arcadia, about 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles. This 127-acre garden is a mix of tropical plants, historic architecture, and wildlife. You might even spot a peacock roaming the grounds! The Arboretum’s themed gardens include a desert garden, an herb garden, and a tropical greenhouse.

From October to December 2024, the Arboretum will host several events for nature lovers. On weekends, you can join guided walking tours that offer insights into the plants and their histories. The tours also include visits to the garden’s historic buildings, like the Queen Anne Cottage, which is often seen in movies and TV shows.

The Arboretum will also feature the “Garden Lights” holiday event from November 24, 2024, to January 7, 2025. This event will transform the garden into a sparkling wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. Stroll along illuminated pathways, see creative light installations, and enjoy festive music. It’s a great way to celebrate the holiday season with friends or family.

Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

The Huntington Gardens in San Marino are a world-class attraction, known for their vast collection of rare plants and themed gardens. With 130 acres to explore, you can wander through a lush Japanese garden, a desert garden filled with unique cacti and succulents, and a recently renovated Chinese garden.

From October 15 to November 20, 2024, the Huntington will host its annual “Autumn Festival.” This event celebrates Asian cultures with music, dance, art, and a traditional tea ceremony. You can watch live performances, participate in craft workshops, and learn about different Asian traditions. The event is an immersive experience that highlights the beauty of the garden’s Asian plant collections.

In December, the Huntington will offer “Evening Garden Walks” from December 8 to 31, 2024. This event allows visitors to enjoy the gardens after dark. Stroll along pathways illuminated by soft lights, see the plants in a new light, and enjoy the quiet of the gardens in the evening. It’s a peaceful way to end a busy day.

South Coast Botanic Garden

Located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the South Coast Botanic Garden is a hidden gem in Los Angeles. The garden spans 87 acres and features a wide range of plant collections, including a succulent garden, a rose garden, and a children’s garden. The South Coast Botanic Garden will have special weekend programs like bird-watching tours and garden workshops. These programs are perfect for families looking to spend time outdoors and learn something new.

The Japanese Garden (Suiho-en)

The Japanese Garden, also known as Suiho-en or the “Garden of Water and Fragrance,” is located in Van Nuys. This 6.5-acre garden is designed in a traditional Japanese style, featuring a teahouse, koi ponds, bonsai trees, and stone lanterns. It’s one of the most tranquil gardens in Los Angeles, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

From October 7 to November 25, 2024, the garden will host “Autumn Tea Ceremonies” every Saturday. These ceremonies provide visitors with a chance to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a serene setting. Participants will learn about the history and customs of the tea ceremony while enjoying green tea and sweets.

In December, the Japanese Garden will present a “Winter Illumination” from December 1 to December 30, 2024. During this event, the garden will be lit up with thousands of lights, highlighting the beauty of the koi ponds, bridges, and trees. It’s a wonderful way to experience the garden in a new way and celebrate the holiday season.

Explore LA’s Gardens with a Rental Car

Los Angeles has many hidden gems, and its botanical gardens are among the best. Each garden offers something unique, from seasonal events like pumpkin trails and light displays to cultural festivals and workshops. Visiting LA Botanical Gardens this fall is a fantastic way to connect with nature, learn something new, and enjoy the beauty of the season.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a romantic date, or a peaceful place to relax, LA botanical gardens have it all. Don’t forget to check their websites for tickets and event details, as many of these activities require advance booking. Enjoy your visit and discover the natural beauty of Los Angeles in full bloom!

By visiting these botanical gardens, you can experience the vibrant plant life and cultural events that make Los Angeles a unique and exciting place to be. If you’re looking to explore these gardens comfortably and at your own pace, consider renting a car from Value Rental Car. They have convenient locations in Inglewood near LAX and also in Pasadena, making it easy to pick up a vehicle no matter where you are in the city. With a rental car, you can travel from garden to garden, enjoying the freedom to create your own itinerary and discover the natural beauty of Los Angeles on your terms. Visit Value Rental Car to find a vehicle that suits your needs and start your adventure today!