Descanso Gardens - La Cañada Flintridge, California

Afshin S.

Descanso Gardens is a truly enchanting escape right here in Los Angeles! From the moment you arrive, the experience is seamless. The fact that parking is free is a wonderful bonus. I highly recommend purchasing your tickets online in advance, as this not only guarantees your entry but also makes the check-in process quick and easy, allowing you more time to explore the beautiful grounds.
Once inside, you'll discover a breathtaking oasis. The gardens are meticulously maintained and offer a diverse range of landscapes to wander through. Whether you're strolling through the vibrant rose garden, finding tranquility in the Japanese garden, or marveling at the towering ancient forest, there's something to captivate every visitor. The website provides a great overview of the different collections and seasonal highlights, which helped me plan my visit and ensure I didn't miss anything. It's a perfect place to connect with nature, enjoy some peace and quiet, and take in the stunning beauty of the plant world. There is also a small train to go over few gardens. You need to get train ticket separately. It’s great for kids. Descanso Gardens is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike!

Chef T.

My family and I absolutely love Descanso Gardens. It’s a magical, well-kept hidden gem in the Los Angeles area. The gardens are beautifully maintained and perfect for strolls,with or without a stroller. It’s a safe and peaceful place for kids, and a great way to teach them about how flowers, plants, and animals change with the seasons.
We often spot ducks, hummingbirds, little songbirds, and even turtles while walking around.
We love it so much we got the annual membership, which is also tax-deductible since it’s considered a donation.
Highly recommended! They also have a nice café for snacks and coffee

Elsa H.

It's a gorgeous park in the city where one can connect with nature and relax. We ate a picnic lunch in the Japanese Garden and enjoyed our meal underneath beautiful trees, while listening to the smooth sound of water trickling in the Koi fish pond. The Rose Garden is spectacular! Beautiful vibrant colors everywhere you look with benches throughout. I wish they had more flowers blooming throughout the park and/or other areas with flowers. Unfortunately the Lilac Garden had no flower blooms and I believe the rest of the park is pretty much greenery, which is lovely as well, but it would be nice to see more flowers.

Carole A. K.

This is a beautiful fairy tale garden. Terrific art gallery and little train for the kids. One of the best gift shops in the city and a trailer serving local Jones coffees and teas. Soon to open, a farm to table restaurant with a renown chef. Make your reservations now!

Syrilda F.

Beautiful garden! The train station and the ride are a highlight for young and old. The servers were helpful, friendly, and courteous. Prepare to pay higher prices for food and drink if you don't bring a picnic. Visiting during early May might provide even more vivid color and blooms. The 100-degree temperature threatened to be a deterrent for the visit, yet the ample shady seating, breeze, and cool grass offered a welcome respite throughout the park. Overall, the blossoms and their scent are worth the trip. Bring a picnic!

Dana

A hidden gem in So Ca! Took my 90-year-old mother to walk the gardens last week. It was easy for her to walk as it is mostly flat. The tulips were magnificent and the colors beyond my imagination . The cherry blossoms were another highlight. I’m headed back soon to further explore as I had no idea how many various flora and trees were in the gardens. I highly recommend both locals and tourists a visit and also one of the rare affordable things to do in the area.

C. D.

So far out of all the botanic gardens in the general area, this one is my favorite. It's quite a large garden with a lot to see including several different themed areas. Plenty of seats around to sit down and relax, and overall very clean and well maintained.

They also have a small gift shop and garden, as well as a little food court if you're hungry, though I don't believe they allow you to bring food into the garden area itself. There was a little food and drink booth inside, however.

Jay N.

Went on a free day, 3rd Tuesday off the month, and it was at capacity but still enjoyable. Great working model trains and even one to ride but need to purchase tickets. A hillier and cozier alternative to the Arboretum in Arcadia but no peacocks here. You will usually see deer in the smaller trails on quieter days.