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    Descanso Gardens

    4.3 (2.1k reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

    Descanso Gardens Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Descanso Gardens

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    Karen T.

    Surrounded by mountains, Descanso Gardens is a botanical garden, living museum, and urban oasis. There are multiple paths and trails you can take when exploring these gardens. Tickets are currently $18 per adult and $8 per child, which can be either purchased online in advance or in person at the entrance. Members get free admission. My husband and I enjoyed a nice stroll through all of the open gardens, spending a few hours total here. It was really nice to see the large collection of camellias and the historic landscapes. I suggest paying attention to the bloom calendar to see what flowers are blooming. Many flowers like cherry blossoms, irises, and lilacs are in full bloom in March, making spring a very popular time to visit. Roses are in full bloom from April through October, with 5 acres devoted to the rose garden. Regardless of which season you visit during, you can always get lots of beautiful pictures at this place all year long. My husband and I took plenty of nice photos throughout the various gardens while admiring the beauty of nature. It was definitely a good thing that we visited on a weekday, so the gardens were not crowded whatsoever.

    Тамара Г.

    I love visiting Descanso Gardens -- this is not our first time here, and we keep coming back again and again. The gardens are beautiful in every season. Right now, roses and poppies are in bloom, and there are still a few camellias left. Lilacs, magnolias, tulips, and mimosa have already finished blooming, but there's still plenty to enjoy and see. One of the great things is that you can visit for free with an EBT card -- just show it at the entrance, which makes this place more accessible for families . There is a large free parking lot, which is very convenient. Inside, you'll also find a few cozy coffee spots and a nice gift shop. It's a perfect place for a peaceful walk, to relax, and to enjoy nature. Highly recommend!

    Poppies
    Lisa N.

    I still enjoy this place but it seems like more people are starting to as well. It can get busy on Saturdays - so we try to get there early to enjoy the peace and quiet The art exhibits they have right now are super cool and I recommend walking to the top to see those I love walking through the tall trees and just finding a spot to observe nature. When the area by the train and rose garden get noisy this is a nice tranquil spot

    Lyn P.

    Came here with my daughter and this place is amazing has beautiful rose gardens and places you can walk and feels like so relaxing. It's my first time here with my daughter , we enjoyed it very much. It's very quite place a lot of trees plenty of shade place as well. It's $18.00 to get in.

    Hanh H.

    Descanso Gardens is an absolute must-visit. This stunning botanical garden offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, with expansive grounds and numerous scenic trails that make it easy to explore without ever feeling crowded. My main goal for this visit was to see the cherry blossoms, and luckily I made it just in time. The blooms were breathtaking and created such a serene atmosphere throughout the garden. Unfortunately, I just missed tulip season, but Descanso rotates seasonal horticultural displays, so there's always something beautiful to see no matter when you visit. Beyond the gardens themselves, there's also a museum on the grounds, adding another layer to the experience and making it easy to spend a few relaxing hours here. I highly recommend purchasing tickets online--it's quick and easy. Admission is also very reasonable at just $18 for adults, which feels like a great value for such a well-maintained and expansive space. If I lived locally, becoming a member would absolutely be worth it. A couple of tips: wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, as you'll likely want to spend plenty of time wandering the trails and soaking in the scenery.

    Climbing rose
    Jeremy S.

    It was my first time visiting Descanso Gardens, and I had a wonderful time looking at all the flowers and greenery. An adult ticket cost $18; it was convenient to purchase online. I arrived when they opened at 9 am and had an easy time finding parking. Thankfully, it didn't feel crowded during my entire visit of around three hours. Near the entrance, I first visited the Japanese Garden and saw Akebono cherry blossoms. These usually have a pale pink color that fades to white. They mostly looked white when I visited. Interestingly, there were a few vibrant roses that were a little hidden in this area. It was ideal as I wasn't in the way of others while taking pictures. Next, I made my way to the Lilac Garden. These exist at Descanso because a plant researcher by the name of Walter Lammerts hybridized lilacs to grow in California's warm climate. The "White Lace" lilacs were one of the most fragrant that day. After smelling the lilacs, I took a slightly steep path to the Hilltop Gardens. There were stairs that led to a dirt path with an expansive view of the San Gabriel Mountains. I then headed down to the Camellia Forest. Descanso contains the largest camellia collection in North America. I walked along lengthy pathways of evergreen shrubs blooming with many pink camellias. The walkways were also lined with bushes of blooming clivia: vibrantly orange lilies. I then visited other areas and got to see owls and a turtle. Back toward the main entrance, I saw the model train area with its elevated bridges and railway system. I've never seen garden-scale model locomotives, so it was a serendipitous moment taking pictures and admiring the area. Finally, I walked over to the Rose Garden. With an area of five acres holding 1,600 colorful roses, there was so much to see. One rose, the Baronne de Rothschild, was especially large. Overall, Descanso Gardens has an amazing collection of flowers and greenery. I could see myself visiting next year to see different types of blooming flowers. It was worth the admission cost to explore the gardens and take as much photos as I could on my camera. Going during the morning on a weekend was ideal even during the spring when I expected a peak attendance.

    Unique tulips
    Krista K.

    This place is magical! There are so many gardens to explore. I have two young children that love to walk around and see different varieties of flowers. We love to be on the lookout for unique flowers. The staff is so friendly and helpful! We've been coming here for 7 years and really enjoy how peaceful and beautiful everything is. If you have a chance to visit Enchanted Forest or Carved, they're amazing! We go with the family each year to one or the other. Sometimes both. They have yummy snacks, adult and children's beverages. It makes for a magical night to help welcome the fall or Christmas season.

    Steff M.

    I've only ever been to Descanso Gardens at night for the Enchanted Forest of Light, so this was my first daytime visit, and honestly... where has this version been all my life? It was such a beautiful place to spend the day. That said, I did show up at a slightly tragic time thanks to the recent heatwaves. I just missed peak tulip bloom (still not over it), and a lot of the lilacs were looking a little... crispy. The Sun said "not this year," apparently. But even with that, what was in bloom was still really pretty. The camellia forest completely stole the show for me. I think I have a new favorite tree now? The rose garden was also lovely, and we basically turned the whole visit into a little scavenger hunt trying to find anything still blooming. It ended up being such a fun, whimsical way to celebrate my 37th birthday, even if the flowers didn't fully cooperate. I'll absolutely be back next year... and I'm coming for those tulips at their peak this time

    Cherry blossoms
    Karen L.

    Descanso Gardens is a great place to spend a beautiful day out in nature. The price is reasonable and there's a discount for children and seniors. The gardens are quite large but manageable so you can see everything without spending too much time. The Japanese garden was our favorite area. The 12k sf Boddy House is interesting to visit as well. Currently there's an exhibit on "therolinguistics", which is the science of non-human languages of plants and animals. I never knew such a thing existed. We went to see the cherry blossoms which were supposed to be in full bloom, but we were a little late for the peak. Nevertheless we saw some beautiful remnants, as well as tulips and many other varietals. There's a nice gift shop and a farm to table restaurant on site.

    Train area
    Steve W.

    We've been coming here for years and it never disappoints. The lush natural beauty is calming and there's rarely a big crowd. The rose garden is breathtaking in Spring, the many paths wind around under canopies of oaks and other foliage. The train is a joy for kids to ride. It's home to one of the oldest oaks in California. Plus it's a good spot for weddings. Pair the tour of the grounds with a meal at the Farmhouse and you've got a memorable outing!

    Nadia M.

    First time here and I have to say I was a little underwhelmed. The grounds are nice, but a bit smaller than what I was expecting. We came on a crisp, cool day, so it was very cold at first, but it was nice because being surrounded by all the trees made the air feel extra clean and mountain-y. The staff I interacted with were all nice and the gift shop has some cute and unique items. There is a cafe with outdoor seating, and they sell beer and wine as well. A nice place to check out, but I preferred the botanical garden.

    Teeling L.

    Descanso Gardens is a 100-acre, year-round botanical garden, known for its extensive oak woodlands, camellia collection, and seasonal blooms like March tulips. It's a peaceful, picturesque place for walking and nature enthusiasts. It's the largest collection of camellias in the western hemisphere. It also has a curated rose garden and native oak forests. It offers a 1.5 hour, low-energy walking experience, the "Sturt Haaga Gallery", a Japanese Tea House, and a mini-train ride for children. March/April is the best time to visit for the superbloom. Popular events include the fall carved pumpkin event and the winter enchanted light show. We came here on Saturday for the newly opened restaurant for brunch and took a relaxing nature stroll in the afternoon in the garden. It's a very beautiful garden. Definitely will be back for the superbloom!

    Cute turtle in the pond
    Barb N.

    Ate at the Farmhouse and loved it and then went in and walked all around the rose gardens and saw the train too. So fun and flowers were blooming everywhere. Made my friend and me and my mom very happy. Thank you to all who work there. We come about 5 times a year and love it! I miss the summer music though.

    Parrot

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    Descanso Gardens Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Descanso Gardens

    Is there a restaurant?

    YES! The brand new Farmhouse...reservations on Open Table!!!

    Is there a Halloween event going on at night?

    Yes until October 30th. Tickets 28-38 members Adults Children 18-23… Read more

    Do we need a permit to take pictures?

    There is no need for a permit to take pictures. The rules there are pretty relaxed.

    Will 3 year olds enjoy the Enchanted Lights for Christmas?

    Yes !! The different colored lights will definitely amaze him/her! Dress warm as evenings could be chilly. Also if you bring a stroller the ground will be easy to maneuver. Be sure to try the hot chocolate while there!😎

    Do I need a ticket?

    Yes you do! Purchase tickets at the Visitors Center. Train rides are $5.00 per person. Entrance opens at 9am. Free parking. Check out the upcoming Carved Event (Pumpkins Galore!) and the Enchanted Lights in Nov-Dec. Magical!

    Can I bring my dog?

    Pet dogs are not allowed, I don't know if therapy dogs are allowed.

    Do I need to purchase tickets in advance or can I purchase in person at visitor's center?

    Either way it will work, depends to the dates of your visit. My last trip was on the weekend (Saturday around noon), there was a line but they were super quick, I was in the line for 5 minutes. Both options are available, definitely buying online… Read more

    Good evening! Me & my family planing to visit Descanso Garden this week & I have 2lb Sweet Yorkie emotional serving Dog ,can I bring with me? Very trained & very quiet dog…

    No dogs unless it is a verified service dog. I'd say book a grooming appointment at Petco, Button Nose or Candice Shaw and your dog will be groomed while you are at the gardens. Proof of vaccinations is required.

    EBT card holder is free to enter? Please let me know. Because I saw to answer.

    EBT card holders are free to enter. This includes 2 adults and 2 children.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Only service animals are allowed.

    Can you bring in your own food?

    No you cannot bring food in, but there are some nice tables and benches outside of the gardens that you can eat your food at before or after visiting.

    Is there free disabled parking. Do i need a permit to take photos on my smartphone?

    As far as I know, PWD parking are free. No permit if you take pictures with your Phone.

    How does one make a reservation for brunch?

    We do not offer sit-down brunch at this time.

    Are the Enchanted Lights worth $40 per person?

    You might want to try discount ticket options like Goldstar.com.

    Is the cafe open during carved?

    Yes, we have many dining options during Carved.

    Do I need to print the tickets for Carved or can they be scanned by phone?

    Your tickets can be scanned from your phone. Enjoy Carved!

    Is photography allowed for a sweet 16?

    Yes. I see wedding photos being taken all the time. Just check in at the entrance window and pay the normal daily admission fee for all members of the party. All that is asked is, when staging photos, to be respectful of the plants.

    Do they have a cafeteria?

    It's a small cafe for dining outside like a picnic, but nothing like a sit-down restaurant.

    Can I purchase tickets at the Visitor Center when I get there or do I need to go online to make reservations before arriving?

    Yes, no reservations are needed unless you are taking special photography then you need an appointment

    I understand that masks are not required to enter Enchanted. However, will there be limited capacity since Covid and since there is a surge of the variant?

    If you booked for ticket your schedule to go inside. Wear facemask you never know whos positive. For dafety for you or your family

    View All 93 Questions

    Review Highlights - Descanso Gardens

    The highlight for us was the Japanese Garden, serene, clean and you are instantly transported to another time!

    Mentioned in 208 reviews

    Read more highlights

    The Huntington

    The Huntington

    4.6(2.9k reviews)
    7.5 mi
    Established in 1919
    Large group friendly

    I spent the day there with my sister who just turned 86. I hadn't been there since I was a young…read moregirl and didn't remember the challenging hills, probably because they weren't challenging to me then. Pushing my sister in a wheel chair was good exercise for me but thank goodness for the golf cart people who were so kind and gave us rides to wherever we wanted to go. We got to see much more than we would have without them. Our lunch was so tasty at the 1919 Cafe, and even enjoyed a glass of wine on the patio. It was a wonderful day. The Museum and gardens where beautiful and inspiring!

    One of the most beautiful places to visit in SoCal. My wife and I enjoyed a wonderful stroll as…read moreflowers were blooming all around. Beware that if it's a warm day, I recommend bringing water bottles and some hats or cover to lessen the heat. Current 2026 Prices: Weekdays (Mon-Thu): Adult $29 Senior (65+) // Military // Student $24 Weekends (Fri-Sun, Holidays, Peak): Adult $34 Senior (65+) // Military // Student $28 Youth (4-11): $13 Children (Under 4): Free Members: Sustaining ($175): Free admission for 2 adults in the same household, member event invites, and store discounts. Affiliate ($350): Includes all Sustaining benefits plus early entry to the gardens on weekends Discounts: Seniors (65+) and teachers/professors can receive $20 off, and 2-year memberships can be purchased for a 10% discount as well. Best part of the garden? FREE PARKING. With that said, it's a free parking lot, pretty big but can fill up very fast during peak hours. Street parking is also available but of course, it comes with a longer walk to the entrance of the garden. If you plan to visit during weekends, come early as it gets crowded very quickly, hence the parking situations. After 2-3PM or so it becomes more spacious. From ranges of Chinese gardens to Japanese gardens, desert, jungle, Australian, there's tons of variety when it comes to The Huntington. I'm very impressed as they have plenty of art galleries as well that's part of the pathways. Very much worth it to check those out during your visit. They have plenty of greenhouses as well similar to the La Brea Tar Pits, those are worth a visit as well. Overall, a wonderful garden to visit, and might be one of the best and biggest in California. A must visit for sure and I'm very impressed with their maintenance. Everything looks fresh and clean here, and always a great vibe overall. The gift shop is also a nice visit if you're looking for some souvenirs.

    Photos
    The Huntington
    The Huntington
    The Huntington

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    Whispering Pine Tea House - Koi pond

    Whispering Pine Tea House

    4.3(9 reviews)
    3.9 mi

    The tea house sits behind a small Japanese garden with a pond with koi fish, bridge, waterfall, and…read morelotus flowers. While small it's very serene and has mostly everything a traditional Japanese garden needs. The teahouse has some events but it's rarely open. You need to really pay attention to their website and keep checking back the event page. I find this is the most current, even more than their Instagram. I saw an event for matcha tea whisking workshop, but it was sold out unfortunately, but it looked cool and I was able to catch a glimpse inside of the teahouse which looks very traditional. The garden around the teahouse is open Mon-Thurs 10am-3pm. This is a really cute place to stop by if you live in Glendale/Burbank and walk around and sit near the pond or bring a book and sit in the grass. If you live farther just be forewarned that the gates to the garden are not always open when they say they are open. I've been here around 3 different times, and it wasn't open which was really annoying because I don't live anywhere near Glendale and I came out specifically to see the garden. The best bet to go is when there is going to be an event at the teahouse that way you can be certain or if you are already coming out here to go on a hike in the mountains behind the park. For something larger check out my list of other Japanese Gardens: bit.ly/3CLXWV9

    Their watermelon slushie with boba sort of changed my view of the world. It comes with a price…read morethough.

    Photos
    Whispering Pine Tea House
    Whispering Pine Tea House
    Whispering Pine Tea House

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    Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens - The stained glass houses on the Luminous Lawn were really beautiful and you can walk around in most of them! (Nov 2025)

    Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens

    4.1(354 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    My mom and I took my kids to see the Christmas markets in France this past December. It was a…read morebucket list trip for my mom, and while my boys had a great time, the travel was complicated and arduous, mostly because of my wild three-year-old Wade B. A couple weeks later, my husband and I took the boys to the Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens. They had an absolute blast, and my five-year-old Leo B. declared, with utmost sincerity, "I think this is the nicest place I've ever been." Matt B. and I had been once before, almost a decade ago, with our friends Caroline Y. and Scott S., when we were all young and childless. We came back together, this time with five kids, and as much as I enjoyed it back in the day, I found it even more compelling this second time around. The magic was amplified ten times by the presence of my sons, who absolutely loved all the beautiful, colorful lights. I did buy them shitty Christmas light necklaces, one of which broke almost immediately, causing considerable strife. The alternative, of course, was to deny Wade his request before even entering the garden, where he would badger me every time he saw another child with the necklace. I was not surprised to see that most of the children seemed to have them, every parent having made the same calculation on their way in. Smart and evil of Descanso Gardens to put that vendor right by the entrance. I'm guessing Enchanted is their big revenue generator for the year, and this is a McKinseyish way to maximize. The kids oohed and aahed at every exhibit, marveling at all the colors and lights. We oohed and aahed right with them, and had the additional pleasure of watching them play and interact with the elaborate, immersive displays. They loved the tulip fields, the model trains, the stained glass houses, the trees and music and light. There was also a large platform that served as a dance floor for small children, who partied to the ambient music. Wade was especially taken with this stage, and the one part of the night that did not go well was when I yanked him away so we could see the rest of the installations. It was cold and the kids were up way past their bedtimes, but we all had a blast at the Enchanted Forest. When pressed, Leo admitted that Paris was in fact as nice as Descanso Gardens, but the point was made. Come Christmas, we can take the boys to France or we can just drive to La Cañada and buy a few tickets that support a wonderful botanical garden. We might even manage the latter every year.

    Wow! What an unexpectedly cool experience!…read more Pro tips: 1. Bring whatever you like to keep you very warm in weather that seems cool normally but in the woods is icy cold. It was 51 and according to the weather app felt like 47 but I'm here to tell you it was COLD COLD more like 32 imho and head, hands, neck and feet coverage is a must so you can enjoy it. Suggest a warm beanie, gloves, and a down type jacket. Definitely jeans or long pants. I grabbed a blanket from my car to wear! 2. It's an easy walk, but for those with wheelchairs or canes or walkers it can be bumpy and some areas are a bit tricky. Also given all the rain, it can be dirty dusty muddy so wear shoes you don't care about. 3. Bring your best camera bc the photo ops both with people and without are plentiful. Make sure everything is charged as there's no common area to charge things easily. I'm sure you can try the restaurant or store in case of emergencies. Or go back to your car. 4. Be prepared to walk a very slow mile. Lots to see and photograph. Took me about 1:15 and I took my time. You can definitely do this much faster if solo and not easily amused or maybe not big on pics. And you can take a lot longer if you like detail and creativity amidst a natural space. 5. It's dark despite tons of lighting so be wise when walking. 6. Parking is free and easy. Just follow the signs or people. There is a walk to the line from the car. Lots of walking in general. 7. Our park reservations were for 6pm. I arrived around 6:10 and the line took about 20 mins. Was done by 7:40. 8. Cute shopping at the beginning before entering an next to the line to get in. It is an outdoor nursery type shop and two small indoor Knick knack type stores. Prices are typical tourist type prices. Also next to it is a coffee and pastry stand but you have to go first and then get in line or get out of line if you have people to hold your place as there's a line to get goodies. 9. Farmhouse is a restaurant on site. Checkout their Yelp. Make reservations as they book up fast. Good for groups. Food imo is average. Standouts were the beet salad, French fries, short rib appetizer, salmon and halibut. They use minimal seasoning at this place so if your health requires less sodium you're good! Get the pan fried crispy skin salmon lol. 10. If you're trying to cut costs there's an El Pollo Loco right as you exit the freeway coming here and before going up the hill to the park. 11. Great holiday thing to do with a large group. Entertainment for most everyone. If you're an outdoorsy, artsy, creative loving, enjoy exercise and family time type, this will be right up your alley!

    Photos
    Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens - The beautiful Garden of Good Fortune! (Nov 2025)

    The beautiful Garden of Good Fortune! (Nov 2025)

    Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens - One of the food and drink stands with seating (Nov 2025)

    One of the food and drink stands with seating (Nov 2025)

    Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens - The stained glass houses on the Luminous Lawn were really beautiful and you can walk around in most of them! (Nov 2025)

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    The stained glass houses on the Luminous Lawn were really beautiful and you can walk around in most of them! (Nov 2025)

    Arlington Garden in Pasadena - Proposal in the garden

    Arlington Garden in Pasadena

    4.6(333 reviews)
    5.9 mi

    It is always a struggle to write beyond a cliche. Case in point, I want to express that the…read moreArlington Garden in Pasadena is a green oasis amidst urban noise and pace but that would say little since people consider their backyard and their local parks to be a green space of peace. And they would be right- who am I to judge the green that someone holds precious whether it be jade from feudal China or a patch of blades that are bed for the soul to rest. So I am left with one task: to express the serene beauty of this place that is also engaging in a quiet way, with almost ethereal words to truly defend and display that this, in all its glory, is a green oasis that wins by a short shot. The grounds are not huge, it is small but comes close to being medium. But what I loved is that its green branches and brown barks and twigs were immersive. I had entered a green swirl that moved all around me in stillness of movement but blurs of garden spirits. The place was like an outside museum that honors mother earth and her mantra of tender care that explains how flowers grow best. One of the most engaging experiences was their wishing tree. It was about two to four big trees with hanging wishes written by everyday folk. As I walked the steps to the trees, as I passed between them my skin could feel the words of hope hanging from branches. It was like the cards spoke in lovely whispers that reminded me that days of beauty are created when people do not forget to see that joyous petals that are in the wind and all around in the everyday. And as one note reminded us, joy is not ready made, to find it takes action. Reading the notes was a way in which I elected joy, as an act of resistance toward anger and disapointment. There was also this gazebo with a statue of a greek goddess. These are guesses of mine, I did not find some type of placards to confirm my notions. She was framed in the gazebo by a quasi-window. I entered the small gazebo and sat in the only green bench maybe big enough for two.I did not understand why she was giving me her back, I wanted to face her. But then I realized that Demeter or Gaia (maybe?) was not facing me because she was looking at her creation, like any person would when they have a garden to admire. From that seat I saw a man doing Tai-Chi and being filmed by his partner in all red. I sat and viewed him quietly and ask that whatever he was calling forth with his movements also entered my own person. From this seat, I also saw a pregnant woman taking pictures. She was wearing a white dress with a tasteful floral pops around. At times, she laughed with a wide smile, at times she held the bundle with her hands. It was seeing a place of growth, welcome a being with life about to begin. Her partner joined and they were directed into stances that made sense--- like the one where they look longingly at each other while he held her, and she held the coming boy. I could see their happiness, I could see their true connection, and I knew that the baby was being born into comfort and love. It was great reminder that sometimes life blooms with ease into joy. I also saw a lizard run and move its neck, both in a funny way. I saw a sole butterfly flutter. I saw folks sitting, relaxing, eating, all in with a calm demeanor. So I would like to think that this place is a green oasis or at least a place where rest is each to come by.

    Nobody told us they could rent out a entire section of a public botanical garden…read more 1 star.

    Photos
    Arlington Garden in Pasadena - Pregnancy photo session by Diana Henderson Photography at Arlington Gardens

    Pregnancy photo session by Diana Henderson Photography at Arlington Gardens

    Arlington Garden in Pasadena - Pregnancy photo session by Diana Henderson Photography at Arlington Gardens

    Pregnancy photo session by Diana Henderson Photography at Arlington Gardens

    Arlington Garden in Pasadena - Pregnancy photo session by Diana Henderson Photography at Arlington Gardens

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    Pregnancy photo session by Diana Henderson Photography at Arlington Gardens

    Storrier Stearns Japanese Gardens

    Storrier Stearns Japanese Gardens

    4.1(97 reviews)
    6.0 mi
    $

    Background On Visit: Last Sunday (4/12/26), the venue hosted the Pasadena Festival Of Tea. We were…read moreone of the participants for this event. Hours Of Operation: They welcome visitors to the garden on many Friday and Saturday evenings and during the day on Sundays. You can check out their schedule of events and admission cost on their website: https://japanesegardenpasadena.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/japanesegardenpasadena/event.jsp?;=&event=1612& Admission Cost: Mostly, $15 on Friday and Saturday. Sunday, it's $12. For other events, they post the cost on their website. Location/Parking: Located across from the Arlington Gardens (Free). It's kinda hidden, but just use the gps on your phone to guide you. Parking can be found along Arlington. For special events, they encourage you to park at Westridge School (Orange Grove and W. State St.) and walk up to Storrier Stearns. Ambiance/Decor: The Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden is a beautiful and charming retreat with a quiet and tranquil elegance. The place is small which contains many of the much admired design features found in the most lavish of Japanese-style gardens of its era. As Kendall Brown states in his book, California Japanese-style Gardens, "this is the genius of Kinzuchi Fujii: this was once a flat area of two tennis courts; now it is a masterwork. 1) Classic Niko-an Teahouse, the garden landscape offers a variety of other beautiful details. 2) Numerous gathering points, seating areas & vistas 3) Four original bridges plus the original cedar log Japanese Waiting Bench 4) Two large interconnected, irregularly shaped koi ponds 5) The sounds of two waterfalls, one cascading down a 25-foot hill 6) An artful dry riverbed for rain overflow winding through the garden 7) Cooling shade everywhere from spreading sycamores & old oaks 8) Many tons of boulders & stones 9) Granite statuary & stone lanterns Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden For Thought: Wouldn't mind coming back to re-center myself. I did a have nice time.

    This is the most difficult Botanical Garden to get in touch with…read more The hours they have posted on their website are wrong, no one picks up the phone after calling several times and leaving several messages. I went in person last weekend, and it was closed despite their online hours posted. The lack of clarity even upon walking up to the venue is not clear. They have no signs stating they are closed and it's clear they do not care to return voicemails. Please do not waste your time going there.

    Photos
    Storrier Stearns Japanese Gardens
    Storrier Stearns Japanese Gardens
    Storrier Stearns Japanese Gardens

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    Penelope's Cafe Books & Gallery - half and half with club sandwich and chicken pot pies

    Penelope's Cafe Books & Gallery

    3.7(217 reviews)
    0.7 mi
    $$

    Well - talk about a place where it feels a bit out of place to be a man. I am wondering if there a…read moreman cave in the basement that I didn't find the secret entrance for. There were only three Y-chromosome's in the restaurant, which I'm told is typical. I felt myself sitting up straight when the server came to our table. For some odd reason I wanted her to think I had good posture and manners. This restaurant is known for delicious food and adorable decor. There is plenty of parking in the back lot. Although it's advertised as a cafe/book shop, they have so much more in the way of stuffed animals and artwork on the walls. People eat at Penelope's when they want to take their time to enjoy each other's company and conversation. You are not rushed at all. We spent 90 minutes here for our lunch which seemed typical. Features breakfast and lunch dishes. For lunch it's sandwiches, salads, and soup. Many choices of bread. Also a long list of chips for a side. I enjoyed the tuna salad sandwich using a fork and knife cuz it was super creamy and could not hold itself together with the nine grain bread.

    Not busy. The cranky waitress was not friendly. Hassled us when we got our own menus. Waited 15…read moremins to order. Took another 15 minutes to get water. My daughter's pbj sandwich was clumped all on one side so my husband had to spread it properly. What in the world.

    Photos
    Penelope's Cafe Books & Gallery - Inside

    Inside

    Penelope's Cafe Books & Gallery - From day one, our lunch duos;  small salad and half a sandwich.

    From day one, our lunch duos; small salad and half a sandwich.

    Penelope's Cafe Books & Gallery - Garden dining

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    Garden dining

    Descanso Gardens - gardens - Updated May 2026

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