Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

The Los Angeles Arboretum & Botanical Garden is an absolutely stunning place to visit. The variety of trees and flowers is breathtaking, with vibrant colors and unique plants around every corner. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a day of exploring nature. One of the highlights was seeing the beautiful peacocks roaming freely around the grounds. They add an extra touch of magic to the experience. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a serene escape, this garden is a must-visit!

The Los Angeles County Arboretum is an absolute gem for families seeking a delightful outdoor adventure. Whether you're exploring the diverse flora or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll amidst nature's beauty, this garden is sure to captivate your senses. The sheer abundance and variety of plants on display is truly remarkable. From towering trees to delicate blooms, the garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts of all ages. If only the garden could provide an app or other interactive guides to introduce these botanical wonders, it would undoubtedly enhance the learning experience for children. Another welcome addition would be the installation of one or two additional public restrooms, particularly considering the vast expanse of the garden. Overall, my first visit to the Los Angeles County Arboretum with my parents was such an enjoyable experience that they decided to become members on the spot. The garden offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing an opportunity to reconnect with nature and appreciate its splendor.

Calling all Plant and outdoor lovers!! Immerse yourself in nature this summer!! The LA County Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a natural and historic wonder! It’s one of the nation's top tourist destinations! FREE DAY is the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Reserve online. Limited to 5 tickets per reservation. No outside food is allowed in the gardens. They offer activities including concerts, nature and gardening classes. Arboretum Summer Nights with live music on select Fridays on the event lawn. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and have a picnic. They also have Goat Yoga with Hello Critter. @hellocrittercare For all activities, reserve online to ensure that you don’t miss out!! There’s so much beauty all around! It’s hard to see everything in a day so enjoy and take your time!

Always love this place! Good price for entry, and tons of beautiful plants to look at! The peacocks were struting around, beautiful. The cafe food has decent prices. There was an awesome rare plant show the day we went with hundreds of entries that you could vote on! They have an amazing library where members can check out books. They have a lot of events for kids and adults to craft hobbies, read alongs, tours, etc. Just check the website and see what's going on, and plan yourself a visit! Parking was free and plentiful. No pets, skateboards or stuff like that allowed. Do NOT remove any plants, they're there for everyone to enjoy!

Really nice place to go for a walk, talk or just contemplate. Lots of peacocks walking around, rabbits too. I recommend coming later in the day when it's cooler. $15 per person

My mother and I visited this botanical garden while we were staying in Arcadia. It was one of the best botanical gardens I have been to. The grounds were gorgeous and there were peacocks running around all over the place! We spent about two hours walking around and it was so nice and relaxing. If you enjoy outdoor activities, and are in the Arcadia area, definitely check out the Los Angeles County Arboretum!

The LA Arboretum & Botanic Garden was a delightful surprise! Nestled right in Arcadia, it offered a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of LA.well-maintained pathways were perfect for a relaxing walk. I especially enjoyed the spots with benches overlooking the lakes and the distant San Gabriel Mountains.A special shoutout to the peacocks! They strutted around confidently, adding a touch of whimsy to the scenery.

This place is beautiful. Must go. I thought I would be scared of the peacock but they were minding their own business lol... Lots of parking. A cafe and a gift shop.

The Los Angeles Arboretum & Botanical Garden is an absolutely stunning place to visit. The variety of trees and flowers is breathtaking, with vibrant colors and unique plants around every corner. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a day of exploring nature. One of the highlights was seeing the beautiful peacocks roaming freely around the grounds. They add an extra touch of magic to the experience. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a serene escape, this garden is a must-visit!

The Los Angeles County Arboretum is an absolute gem for families seeking a delightful outdoor adventure. Whether you're exploring the diverse flora or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll amidst nature's beauty, this garden is sure to captivate your senses. The sheer abundance and variety of plants on display is truly remarkable. From towering trees to delicate blooms, the garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts of all ages. If only the garden could provide an app or other interactive guides to introduce these botanical wonders, it would undoubtedly enhance the learning experience for children. Another welcome addition would be the installation of one or two additional public restrooms, particularly considering the vast expanse of the garden. Overall, my first visit to the Los Angeles County Arboretum with my parents was such an enjoyable experience that they decided to become members on the spot. The garden offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, providing an opportunity to reconnect with nature and appreciate its splendor.

Calling all Plant and outdoor lovers!! Immerse yourself in nature this summer!! The LA County Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a natural and historic wonder! It’s one of the nation's top tourist destinations! FREE DAY is the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Reserve online. Limited to 5 tickets per reservation. No outside food is allowed in the gardens. They offer activities including concerts, nature and gardening classes. Arboretum Summer Nights with live music on select Fridays on the event lawn. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and have a picnic. They also have Goat Yoga with Hello Critter. @hellocrittercare For all activities, reserve online to ensure that you don’t miss out!! There’s so much beauty all around! It’s hard to see everything in a day so enjoy and take your time!

Always love this place! Good price for entry, and tons of beautiful plants to look at! The peacocks were struting around, beautiful. The cafe food has decent prices. There was an awesome rare plant show the day we went with hundreds of entries that you could vote on! They have an amazing library where members can check out books. They have a lot of events for kids and adults to craft hobbies, read alongs, tours, etc. Just check the website and see what's going on, and plan yourself a visit! Parking was free and plentiful. No pets, skateboards or stuff like that allowed. Do NOT remove any plants, they're there for everyone to enjoy!

Really nice place to go for a walk, talk or just contemplate. Lots of peacocks walking around, rabbits too. I recommend coming later in the day when it's cooler. $15 per person

My mother and I visited this botanical garden while we were staying in Arcadia. It was one of the best botanical gardens I have been to. The grounds were gorgeous and there were peacocks running around all over the place! We spent about two hours walking around and it was so nice and relaxing. If you enjoy outdoor activities, and are in the Arcadia area, definitely check out the Los Angeles County Arboretum!

The LA Arboretum & Botanic Garden was a delightful surprise! Nestled right in Arcadia, it offered a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of LA.well-maintained pathways were perfect for a relaxing walk. I especially enjoyed the spots with benches overlooking the lakes and the distant San Gabriel Mountains.A special shoutout to the peacocks! They strutted around confidently, adding a touch of whimsy to the scenery.

This place is beautiful. Must go. I thought I would be scared of the peacock but they were minding their own business lol... Lots of parking. A cafe and a gift shop.

If you have a membership and young children definitely make sure you check out the Members pumpkin party. Tickets are affordable. $8 for adults and $5 for children and they get a free small pumpkin and goodies. There are booths for games, reptiles, photos, and food. Highly recommend bringing a blanket and a picnic basket. They do have food trucks and other snack options, but nothing like a family picnic. Overall, I had a great time and look forward to next year's event!

This place is the ultimate date setting Beautiful Autumn day Friday 85 degrees what a beautiful place shade everywhere benches everywhere in the perfect spot My wife and I had a great day walking throughout this beautiful gigantic garden of flowers and scents we sat on one of the many benches relaxing and a gorgeous peacock is standing in front of us saying hello Thank you to the entire staff you guys are great at taking care and telling us all about the Arboretum

Founded in 1947, this historical Arboretum & botanical garden spans 127 acres. However, it wasn't open to the public until 1956. The picturesque grounds feature natural landscapes which house rare & endangered plants. Each section is grouped geographically. It is also a sanctuary for wildlife and an extensive array of bird species - especially raptors, peafowl, and waterfowl. The later migrate to Baldwin Lake on an annual basis. In fact, about 260 different bird species have been sighted here. Dozens of movies have been filmed here too. (The Queen Ann Cottage is seen in the opening credits of Fantasy Island.) You could spend an entire day exploring the grounds. A tram tour is also available for $8. I came here to see the Birds of the Arboretum Photo Exhibit, which is displayed in the library. My beautiful Sister B, Ms. Hannah S had some of her photos featured in the exhibit. I'm in awe of her photography skills, so it was nice to see her receive recognition for her amazing work. The exhibit runs until December 31st and the photographs on display are spectacular. Our darling friend Rose F met us there and we spent time checking out all the photos and chatting with some of the other photographers whose work was also showcased. As we were exiting the library we saw a Peacock that was molting. He paused to say, "Hello." The day I was there also happened to be the grand opening of their gift shop. I'm surprised that they didn't have one. The shop carries a variety of cute stuff from local artists such as jewelry, clothing, & accessories. You'll also find locally made honey, teas, lotions, books, stationary & more. It's all nicely curated and the layout is visually appealing. The staff are friendly and eager to assist. It's located outside the entrance so you can stop by anytime to purchase a gift or treat yourself to something nice. *Every third Tuesday of the month admission is free with reservations in advance. *Free parking lot on site.

There is, honestly, no more beautiful place than the Arboretum. It's a love letter to Mama Nature. There are shady and secluded spots & sunny wide-open spaces. It's, perhaps, the DNA of LA County & part of the soulful memories of every LACSD school kid who went on the annual school field trip.

LA ARBORETUM finally opened their Gift Shop! I was really happy , excited and impressed with the quality of the merchandise they have in the gift shop. They have local honey with different aroma,Tea Forte, cups, mugs, plates, olive oil, elegant stationary, books, children books, socks, T-shirts, clothing, pretty accessories, hats, aprons, umbrellas, fashion jewelries, cute stuffed animals to mention a few. I enjoyed going around every corner of the gift shop. It is highly organized and neat. The staff were very enthusiastic and very welcoming too. Shoutout to all the employees who were working hard to have everything done perfectly. What a great addition to the LA ARBORETUM!

Show me how you grow it And I promise you, I promise that I'll run away with you... (maybe they'll tell me their secrets) Great staff on hand! Had some questions about the daily tickets and membership, think we are leaning for the annual membership as it is a lot bigger than we thought. My wife and kids really enjoyed the waterfall and the turtles, they gave them Ninja Turtle names. They call the peacocks Kevin like the bird from Up. There is a lot to see and we love being outdoors. You can walk around just for the walk, admire the nature and animals. If you get tired they have a cafe in hand, although we didn't try it this time around. Lots of space for the kids to run, paths and grass. See you next time Rafael, Leonardo, Michelangelo and Donatello!

Calling all Plant and outdoor lovers!! Immerse yourself in nature this summer!! The LA County Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a natural and historic wonder! It's one of the nation's top tourist destinations! FREE DAY is the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Reserve online. Limited to 5 tickets per reservation. No outside food is allowed in the gardens. They offer activities including concerts, nature and gardening classes. Arboretum Summer Nights with live music on select Fridays on the event lawn. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and have a picnic. They also have Goat Yoga with Hello Critter. @hellocrittercare For all activities, reserve online to ensure that you don't miss out!! There's so much beauty all around. It's hard to see everything so enjoy and take your time!

Recently visited the L.A. arboretum for the 2nd and 3rd time ever and could not recommend it enough. I came here as a kid and vaguely remembered there were a lot of peacocks and greenhouses. My recent visits I went with no expectations except for to walk around and hang out with family, but I left feeling so refreshed. My second visit I ended up thinking too much and crying by the waterfall about my dog dying earlier in the week. That's what happens.! It's weirdly therapeutic in a way. It's also huge! They filmed Fantasy Island here amongst other films, tv shows and music videos. My third visit here they had goat yoga by the barn. People pay to do yoga while goats jump on top of you to test your form. Mt. Sac. was here selling various plants and trees and they had an interesting selection. I highly recommend this place for anyone who wants to get out of the city but still be in the city. They have a tram that offers tours of the place so if you have elderly folks with you, that would be a great option for them. It feels like you're in another world and you could easily do a photo shoot and pretend you're in Hawaii. Check their website for the many events they hold here and definitely visit if you're looking for something to do by yourself or with the whole family.

Great little gem in the city of Arcadia, of a large botanical garden in the city! I'm pretty familiar with the area and surprised that it has only been a couple of times. I was meeting up with a friend, enjoying the morning stroll of all kinds of plants with plenty of shade and seating to chat! I bought a year membership (that expires next year at the end of the month that I purchased my membership) that my ticket purchase could go into, so I'm looking forward to more trips to walk and draw. The membership includes all year free admission, free admission to other gardens throughout the US and Canada (that are in AHS reciprocal Garden Network) early admission, and discounts to events! Rose was very informative and helpful in signing up for membership. I was tempted to get a family membership (for +$25 more) to get +1 adult/+2 children's admission whish would be great for friends and family with kids! I'll definitely come more often when it cools down, since it was sweltering hot by the time noon came around! They said they are open all year round, except for Christmas day. There is lots of free parking on site and its handicap friendly, with flora, fauna, and peacocks galore! Parking is busy on weekends, and there are many families enjoying the preserved botanical land from Baldwin. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, some light snacks and a bottle of water. They are currently renovating and refitting some of their buildings (the buildings at the historic circle) as well as the gift shop, which I remember enjoying and hope they open all of them soon. I saw that the Santa Anita Train Stop had transferred and rebuilt a few blocks from its original location from the 70s as it was going to be bulldozed down for what is now the 210 freeway. It was awesome to see a piece of history of another time, which some of the train tracks preserved as well. Florence was a great docent, telling me all about the technology of the kitchen and the station masters office! I spent an easy couple of hours here, and I hadn't even seen a fourth of the gardens, so I'll be back!

It's so big here at 127 acres, so there is a lot to explore and get lost in all the different gardens. My favorites were the lake, peacocks roaming around, waterfall, and rose garden. The rose garden here is not as impressive or manicured as the one at the Huntington or Descanso but it had a more rustic feel situated next to an orange and lemon grove. Some of the roses were dead when I went in June, maybe they can't handle the Arcadia heat as much. There are tons of benches throughout the park so it felt very meditative, and you could always see the San Gabriel Mountains in the distance. I wouldn't recommend it as much for a tourist that is staying and doing stuff in Hollywood/Santa Monica/Disneyland area since it's a bit out of the way but perfect as an LA local staycation activity. For more rose gardens checkout my list: https://bit.ly/44hoyZR

Coming here was a great way to spend a sunny and serene Saturday. I was amazed by the vast variety of trees and plants growing in close proximity to one another. There are different sections of the arboretum that are meant to evoke different regions, such as the Mediterranean, Africa, and Australia, just to name a few. There is an endless amount of wilderness to look at and take in. There was a jungle-like area that had bamboo trees. The beautiful flora there kind of reminded me of hiking trails I've been to on the Road to Hana in Maui. We also came across an area with a small stream. The sound of the water flowing over rocks was so tranquil to listen to. We enjoyed the Coach Barn, which had an old stable and carriage. It gave us a glimpse of how people lived over a hundred years ago, which was interesting to see. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when planning your visit here. It gets really hot and you will do a lot of walking, so definitely bring plenty of ice-cold water or purchase some at the Peacock Cafe near the entrance when you arrive. Don't forget to wear plenty of sunscreen, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and comfortable footwear. You can probably get away with wearing sandals, but keep in mind that there are some dirt paths. The beautiful peacocks scattered throughout the arboretum were a lovely sight.

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a fantastic destination offering a unique blend of natural beauty and engaging activities for families, couples, and lovers alike. Our girlfriend was very kind to secure tickets for us group of girls and we spent the whole day there enjoying the beautiful gardens! Weather was hot but had lots of trees for shades but make sure to wear your sunscreens and hats and bring water with you! We brought some food and we had a little picnics by the rose garden and it was so fun! For Friends and Families: The Arboretum is a great place for families to explore. Kids will love the sprawling grounds, including the picturesque Queen Anne Cottage, which often serves as a backdrop for seasonal events and educational programs. The Arboretum's diverse plant collections, including a spectacular tropical rainforest and a charming Australian section, provide plenty of learning opportunities. Families can enjoy leisurely walks or picnics in designated areas. For Couples: Couples will find the Arboretum to be a romantic escape from the city. The serene gardens, including the tranquil Japanese Garden and the colorful Mediterranean Garden, offer perfect spots for a peaceful stroll or a quiet moment together. The scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a great place for a romantic picnic or a leisurely afternoon. For Lovers of Nature: Nature enthusiasts will be enchanted by the Arboretum's extensive plant collections and themed gardens. The Arboretum hosts various seasonal events and educational programs, making it a vibrant place to explore different aspects of horticulture and botany. Don't miss the opportunity to discover rare and exotic plants from around the world. Activities: Gardens Exploration: Wander through themed gardens like the Tropical Rainforest, Australian Garden, and the historic California Garden. Educational Programs: Participate in guided tours, workshops, and special events designed to enhance knowledge about plants and nature. Seasonal Events: Enjoy various seasonal festivals and exhibits throughout the year. Hours of Operation: * Daily: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM * Closed: New Year's Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Fees: * Adults: $15 * Seniors (65+): $11 * Youth (5-12): $5 * Children under 5: Free * Members: Free admission Parking: * Parking is available on-site for a fee of $5. The parking lot is spacious and well-maintained, making it convenient for visitors. Overall, the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden offers a rich experience for visitors of all kinds, combining natural beauty with educational and recreational opportunities. Whether you're looking for a friends or family outing, a romantic date, or a nature-filled adventure, the Arboretum is a splendid choice.

When my bestie Idy T. was visiting I decided to take her to the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden since she enjoys nature and long walks. I'm not personally a nature-person but this was one of the better arboretums we have visited. As we pulled into the parking lot we saw a peacock strolling around freely. Admission was $15/adult to enjoy this stunning 127 acre botanical garden and historical site. The arboretum is divided into 6 main areas: Tallac Knoll, Meadowbrook, Historic Circle, Idea Gardens, Africa and Australia. I had to take my allergy pill but I enjoyed the walk around the arboretum. Meadowbrook was my favorite area, especially the waterfall. I was also intrigued by the Australia section since there were plants I had not seen prior. I liked the peacocks and squirrels wandering around. It was overall very relaxing and peaceful. There were some construction so we were unable to see Queen Anne's cottage. We also skipped the rose garden since there were some caution tapes and the gardeners warned us about a bees nest on the path towards the rose garden. We both looked at each other like PASS we've seen roses before, not worth getting stung up. Especially when it isn't roses season yet. A great spot for locals or those who love nature. I'll refrain from my personal feelings of nature. I can say this is one of the nicer arboretums I have visited and it is very well maintained.

Love this place! There are so many open spaces which are good to explore but also can get really hot. The free roaming peacocks are so unique and such a cool experience. A few tourists got too close, but generally everybody is respectful of the area.

I highly recommend coming here for the following: 1. Beautiful and extensive collection of plant species that make for great nature shots. You can definitely spend the whole day here 2. Peacocks...a lot of peacocks 3. Very peaceful and relaxing. Not a lot of noise (other than the sound coming from the peacocks), especially if you want to de-stress and enjoy some quiet time.

So I had been to the Arboretum as a kid, but never as an adult. My boyfriend wanted to see what this place was all about since we passed by it nearly every week we took an afternoon during the week and enjoyed a walk and gorgeous scenery together. To say that we enjoyed ourselves would be putting that very lightly. As we walked about, we were able to see two white owls, perched in the tree, protecting their babies nest. That was a sight to be seen. Then we walked around a bit more and saw the old fantasy Island house. I am continuing about, and just took in the environment and had a fantastic show from Peacock . I have to say if you need to decompress this is definitely the place to be. Fresh air, green space and the freedom to disconnect. Well worth visiting! Sidenote, they even offer classes there, if one was interested. Take a visit you won't be disappointed.

Such a beautiful landscape and a great option for a nice stroll with the ones you love!

Beautiful treasure of nature located in the Middle of Arcadia? While it isn't as large and extravagant as the Huntington, it is well worth to come here for a stroll with friends and family. Or even take yourself on a solo day date. I came here with a friend and her son on a whim as I wanted to be in nature versus going to eat out and to my surprise, there were a lot more visitors than I expected (it did not feel crowded at all). It was 15$ for entry and there is a student discount if you are a student. It took a few hours to leisurely stroll around the Arboretum. Although the rose gardens and some areas were barren because my visit took place right after days of rain, it was still extremely refreshing to walk around. The bathrooms were kept clean and apparently there are cool events like Goat Yoga going on here I've lived locally for close to 5 years now and still can't believe it took me so long. I will definitely be back. A big plus is that parking is free (so nice especially here in LA) and it wasn't hard to find parking. PS: My engagement photographer recommended the LA Arboretum as a site, and although I didn't end up picking it - I would still highly recommend coming in the spring for photos! The setting is perfect for gorgeous photos

This place never gets old and is definitely reminiscent of my childhood and my daughter's childhood as well!! Caught a break from the heat here today with my daughter and my fiancé and her Mom!! Gorgeous as always and will have to come back when the lake is redone!! We also got some really good education from the docents as well! Beautiful peacocks to greet us as well!

This place is so relaxing and awesome! We've been here a couple of times, and every time we visit, we find something new or that we didn't notice before. It's a nice sized arboretum where even my 6 years old appreciated it. There is a spot here where every time we visit, we go to. It's hidden, and you have to walk up the stairs by the mini waterfall. Once you reach the top, don't follow the path, and go to where there's a small opening to the other side. There you'll see a marbled bench where you can enjoy the scenery. I highly recommend!

Did you know that the Arboretum has more than beautiful gardens? They host outdoor concerts, there are special night shows with amazing lighting. This venue is breathtaking and enjoyable for all ages. They have a casual cafe with snacks, sandwiches, salads and beverages. Just ask anyone there to point you in the direction of the Peacock Cafe. Lastly, my work hosted a Christmas lunch at the Ayres Hall. It is easy to find the entrance from the main parking lot. I have attended fundraisers here as well. Go to the website to get rental information. P.S., don't forget to tell 'em that Rosemary sent ya!!

Attended a job-related safety training here on a recent Friday and always love this place! Parking was easy. I must visit more often. The colorful and vocal peacocks are everything to me. Coworkers enjoyed lunch at the cafe on-site. They had hamburgers and sandwiches. I drove 5 minutes away to the mall for fast food. Overall, great visit. Lots of summer camp visitors. Concert series sounds pretty good. My coworker already got tickets to attend one of the concerts with her family. So much to do here.

I still can't believe this is in the middle of the SGV. I feel like all the beautiful gardens or sightseeing spots are far out on the Westside or in the OC, but this is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Southern California in my opinion. We love this place so much that we have a Family annual pass which is well worth the money if go more than once. Free parking is a bonus! There's so many pockets to discover something new each time you visit. My family has come over a dozen times in the last year and there's always something new to soak in. The latest find was the cute children's area in the library. Definitely recommend for anyone looking to entertain out of town guests or looking for a festive seasonal activity as there's always some event going on.

Came here with my family on a weekend. Plenty of free parking, we got a great spot near the entrance. We did a lot walking saw a lot of beautiful trees, plants, and flowers. Beautiful nature walk my kids enjoyed seeing the peacocks. Next time I will bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn. Also a hat for the unshaded areas. I might come back again I was here 2 hours and felt I saw plenty.

4 stars I haven't been here since I was a kid on a school field trip! So, I was happy to be invited by some family friends for a walk through this garden again. I thoroughly enjoyed meandering about this place and loved the rose garden and the mountain view area. Least favorite was probably the Australia section since there really wasn't any shade. Will definitely come back in the future.

If you are in need of quiet, peace, beautiful scenery and animals and some exercise the LA arboretum is your place! My friend invited me here to go forest bathing ( google it) and we decided to come an hour or so early to walk around. The peacocks were definitely my favorite part and they are beautiful and loud at times lol and just minding their business. We walked near the bamboo forest, rose garden, a couple waterfalls, cactuses and an old house turned mini museum where you can look through the windows. The forest bathing was a unique experience and we had an excellent guide with Ben which we learned was his last tour so that was an honor! The total cost was $35 which included entry and our ticket to the forest bathing although I think it's a bit cheaper than that if you are just going to visit the arboretum. The only thing I'll warn about it the mosquitos. I didn't put any bug spray on and got bit up although I was pretty covered up.. so put your bug spray on yall!!

Visited the arboretum for the first time this Holiday season. Have wanted to go here for years and never made it. Decided to go during the day to see the gardens in the sunshine and then bought tickets for their Holiday light show that evening. The gardens themselves are beautiful, it is much larger than I expected and lots to see and a lot of walking which was nice. They do have a tram offered, but it is an additional charge to ride it, which I don't like and it should be included in the price. It liked the walking, but I know some may not want to walk as much or can walk as much. $8 per person additional is pretty steep in my book for the tram. With that said, the day prices are very reasonable, but these extras seem just a bit tacky. The light show was really cool, gardens lite up, music playing are through the park, they have it set up so the flow of people can only go in one direction which keeps it organized. But if you miss something or want to go back, they won't let you, you have to take another lap. Although it was very pretty and they did a very good job, I think the tickets for the light show alone got pricey. Family park for 4 people is almost $150, that does include parking though. I still think probably closer to $100 with parking is reasonable for what you get, but nice to see it at least once. There are peacocks wondering all over and other wild life to see in addition to the gardens, very pretty. They also have the Peacock Cafe you can eat at, which we had an early dinner there and then visited the Santa Anita Mall a bit while waiting for them to open the light show. You guessed it, I'm a broken record, but the cafe will set you back a pretty penny. I would recommend the Arboretum, if you have never been, book a tour and cross it off your bucket list, or come back again. Enjoy!

Beautiful area for a pass time for a few hours. Lots of trails to enjoy nature and get some steps in. Was obsessed over all the flowers and trees, just too many to count.

This is a great place for walks in the morning. You're safe inside, away from cars. And if you're lucky, you get to see peacocks like we did today. Absolutely gorgeous views and beautiful flowers everywhere.

Beautiful place amongst such a sprawling urban landscape. Came on a day where they had a free visit day. Reserved timed entry tickets in advance. What I love most about the arboretum is the various flora from different countries/environments planted in sections around the property. You get to see plants from Australia, walk a short distance, then see a tiny orange grove familiar to all Californians. Second favorite thing about the arboretum? All the peacocks roaming the property! There's a lot of history about the arboretum, so make sure you stop and read the plaques and signs located on the various walking paths. There's a big parking lot, but if it's busy, you might have to circle a couple times to finally snag a spot.

Beautiful scenery, loved the peacocks they are all over even seen one in the parking lot. This is a great place to get your steps in. Child friendly, safe maker sure to bring a snack and water bottles miles and miles of beautiful scenery. There is also a cafe if you'd like to grab a bite,

Beautiful gardens and trees. We enjoyed our stay walking around the gardens. It's such a relaxing place. There are lots of interesting varieties of plants. The turtles were fun to watch. The peacocks were stunning.

The arboretum is a beautiful place to spend a nice day out with family and friends. Be prepared to walk around and enjoy all the beauty around you. I recommend getting in early if you want to try to avoid the heat. You'll run into beautiful peacocks, unique plants, and even a nice waterfall. They also have a nice cafe for you to enjoy some light bites in case you get hungry from your walk. They have events that happen here too. You can check out their list of events through their website.

I never ever like to leave reviews, but I have to....I really like going to the arboretum but I was kinda disappointed by how little water they had in the lake and how dirty it was. Not really taken care of.... The lillypads with the poor turtles, you couldn't really see the fish or turtles... someone needs to clean them up. The poor turtle has the algae growing on his shell. And the fountain needs to be cleaned. But the waterfall was gorgeous as always. I will come back but I hope they do something about the lack of cleanliness. Hopefully they open the Adobe for the next trip.

ARTIST Sanctuary 5 Stars all day. #100th of 100 review challenge for 2023 I accomplished it YAY!!! #418th review all time #204 5 Stars***** review 100TH CLUB :) This place is a tmeless Haven for Nature and Inspiration. I recently renewed my membership for the Baldwin Circle Benefactor at the LA Arboretum botanical gardens, marking 34 years of consistently delightful experiences. These gardens are nothing short of majestic, tranquil, and utterly charming--qualities that have remained unchanged over the past 35 years of my visits. In the 90s, during my conceptual background painting for the Lion King, this place was a wellspring of inspiration, and it's heartening to see that many spots still evoke that same magic today. I'll be sharing some snapshots that capture the essence of those inspiring moments. The Queen Anne Cottage, Coach Barn, and the enchanting trees and gardens continue to be perfect canvases for artists. Whether you're a painter, photographer, or simply seeking peace and quiet, the Arboretum offers an abundance of picturesque spots to fuel your creativity. This place is a solid 5 stars in my book. It's not just a beautiful escape for seasoned visitors like myself; it's also an ideal destination for families, providing a serene environment that both kids and artists can appreciate. If you're in search of inspiration or just a peaceful retreat, the LA Arboretum botanical gardens is the place to be.

We drove all the way to LA to go to the Huntington Library just to find out it was sold out. We looked for other options in the area and we settled for the Arboretum; however, we enjoyed it so much more than I think we would have enjoyed our first option. We spent a few hours strolling around, enjoying the beautiful plants and had a picnic lunch mid way through. Definitely recommend for a more natural scenery.

Been coming here for over 2 years now but today was the first time I took a class here - and it was AWESOME! I took the class led by the amazing conservation photographer Krystle Hickman all about our native bees and how to photograph them. WOW!! I learned sooo much! Definitely will help me step up my photography game AND now I can't wait to get out there and look for more native bees! We spent a little time in one of their very comfortable classrooms before heading out into their native garden in search of our subjects. We had plenty of lens fodder today and got lots of practice! Krystle was a fantastic teacher and you can really tell she loves the bees! I will DEFINITELY be taking another class here in the future - this one was just amazing - I can't say enough about it lol! These gardens are positively teeming with life! March is an excellent time to visit - the flowers are starting to come out in droves and there are birds EVERYWHERE!! So many bird species! And so many birders too haha. And March is also when the peacocks are in their mating season - calling and strutting their stuff lol! If you will be visiting regularly and/or are a wildlife photographer - I recommend getting a membership bc they let "members" in an hour before it opens to the public. It's a lot less crowded and you'll catch the height of the bird activity. They're doing construction on a new visitor center at the moment (March 2023) so there are 2 temporary entrances - north and south - with plenty of parking. They require online tickets purchased ahead of time to get in, but they have a kiosk at the north entrance to buy before you walk in. Weekends get busy so I recommend to plan ahead and buy early. Members don't need the online tickets - they're allowed in any time. There's a cafe on site and sometimes they have member specials and free coffee for members etc - I haven't ever tried the cafe so can't speak to it. There are ample bathrooms and plenty of signs and maps of the grounds all over the place so it's easy to navigate.

Magical, that's what this place is. Lucky us to have visited in the rain, was a thrill! The greenery was even greener, the fragrances filled our senses and were so alive. Staff working could not have been nicer. Could have stayed forever.

It's been a few years since I've been back and they have a couple of changes. For starters, the entrance is being remodeled so you now enter in the middle of the parking lot area. There are also some green houses that I do not remember seeing 4 or 5 years ago. It's pretty nice. I bought tickets a month in advance and picked a later time in the day. I am glad because the weather ended up being pretty hot! Going at 4pm was still sweat-inducing and there isn't much shade. What hasn't changed are all the peacocks that roam around, needing to watch the ground so you don't step on poo, and the water fall is still one of the main attractions! There is a nice view at the top of the waterfall of the tree tops and mountains. Queen Anne's cottage is being renovated right now but we did see a cute turtle roaming around on the grass freely. Didn't get to take the tram this time but the grounds are very expansive. Be prepared to walk a lot! Bring water! It's fun to explore though.

The LA County Arboretum is my happy place. It's where I go to breathe fresh air, exercise, and just enjoy nature. The Arboretum has lots of different walking paths and i am always amazed at just how much there is to see. There are all sorts of people frequenting the Arboretum. You have the walkers, photographers, bird watchers, peacock followers, and the list goes on. I feel safe walking here and am just happy to have such a beautiful place to get my steps in. The people that work here are wonderful. From the friendly folks that check in guests to the folks I see riding around on golf carts (security/landscaping), the staff here adds to the welcoming atmosphere. The peacocks, squirrels, and ducks add to the overall charm. During certain months there are also lots of geese wandering around. I also love observing the flowers, plants, and trees from season to season. It's amazing how much things grow and change over time. Parking is free and plentiful. There are multiple lots to choose from and I've never had any issues finding parking. Due to construction, the main entrance is closed but it no issue as other options are available. Having a gem like the LA County Arboretum makes living in in a big city bearable. I always feel less stressed and so much happier after visiting the Arboretum. LOCATION: 5/5 SERVICE: 5/5 VALUE: 5/5 AMBIANCE: 5/5 PET FRIENDLY: no CLEANLINESS: 5/5 PARKING: 5/5

This place is huge lol. I'd say it's the size of a zoo. Lots of wildlife (peacocks especially) and lots of plants. Tickets are $15 per adult, great place for weekend outing, walk around with your friends and family.

The Lightscape was magic. First time going and we all had a lovely time. We took the shuttle over - only way to go. Thank you.

Beautiful!!! Such a large open space! They have a lot of plants, water falls, and even a cafe! So happy I was able to go with my family.

Came by on a Saturday afternoon and there was plenty of parking. Once you enter the gate, you'll see kiosks near by where you can purchase your tickets for entry. You might even see a peacock in the parking lot! This is the perfect place for a picnic, to spend the day surrounded by nature, and for photos. There are also several benches through out to sit and just relax. We had a great time learning about all the different plants and exploring. There weren't any strict restrictions from what we could see. Just be mindful of cleaning up after yourself, careful not to step on the plants, and keep a safe distance from the peacocks and ducks.

My partner and I joined the "Adult Night Hike: Bawdy Botany", which was a unique Valentines event hosted by Jenna Ervin! Jenna was an awesome speaker, even with technical difficulties. The event was about how even Botany & flowers are interconnected with love. The hike was pretty straight forward and was a very light walk around the Arboretum. The coolest part of this event was when we used the black lights to see how aloe plants are ready to be pollenated!

I was so disappointed to see empty greenhouses when I visited, these spaces could be easily swept and made available to local artists or others as a space for their work or demonstrations for people to learn, etc. I wish these spaces would be put to good use sooner rather than later. Aside from that, the arboretum is a fabulous place to visit to see nature.

Such a magical experience every time I come here for an event. Love how organized they always are!! Most of all how clean they keep this place it is amazing. Always feels like I'm somewhere far away from Los Angeles and away from the crazy loud lifestyle. It feels peaceful here.

Such a lovely day can be spent strolling through this park. They have benches everywhere so whenever you want to sit and take it all in you totally can. We enjoyed going to see the waterfall, it's small but soothing and beautiful. One of the perks is all of the peacocks you'll see during your stroll.

Jamie W. and I drove to LA on Thanksgiving Day when a lot of attractions were closed for the holiday. The short list in Time Out had mentioned this place as open, though I have to admit I wasn't that excited at the prospect of visiting another botanical garden since we has been on previous trips to nearby Descanso Gardens (review: https://bit.ly/3voBKww) and The Huntington (review: https://bit.ly/3WxPUHK). However, after a long car trip, we were anxious to get some FitBit steps into our day, so we welcomed the opportunity to stroll around the well tended 127 acres for the $15 admission. The first thing we noticed were all the peacocks (or more appropriately, peafowl) traipsing on the walkways and the walls (photo: https://bit.ly/3job78f). The gardens are subdivided geographically by continent. Looking rather overgrown, Baldwin Lake anchors the center of the grounds with the Queen Anne Cottage the highlight. The bell tower was where Tattoo yelled, "Da plane! Da plane!" to Mr. Roark on Fantasy Island. The jungle-like flora surrounding it was used in "The African Queen", a lot of Tarzan movies, and more importantly to Gen Z Yelpers, Katy Perry's "Roar" video. The Bauer Lawn and Fountains is a huge expanse of green near the entrance, and this was where they filmed the Wilson Phillips concert for the end of "Bridesmaids". Clearly, Hollywood saw a conveniently photogenic setting in these gardens, so why wouldn't you? Don't you know things can change? / Things'll go your way / If you hold on for one more day... RELATED - Exploring LA? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2TWT63v