Discover the Serenity of Descanso Gardens
Explore the enchanting beauty of Descanso Gardens, a serene botanical paradise in La Cañada Flintridge, California, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Descanso Gardens is a breathtaking botanical garden located in the heart of La Cañada Flintridge, California. Spanning over 150 acres, this lush, verdant oasis is a must-visit for tourists seeking solace in nature. With a diverse array of plant collections, including the enchanting Rose Garden, the tranquil Japanese Garden, and the vibrant California native plant garden, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. Each season brings its own unique charm, making every visit a new experience. The gardens are brilliantly designed to encourage exploration and discovery, with meandering paths leading to hidden corners filled with vibrant flowers, serene water features, and peaceful resting spots. In spring, the cherry blossoms and azaleas burst into bloom, while summer showcases a riot of colors from the annuals and perennials. Autumn brings a stunning display of fall foliage, and winter allows for quieter contemplation amidst the evergreen trees. In addition to the stunning landscapes, Descanso Gardens offers various educational programs and events throughout the year, including guided tours, art exhibitions, and family-friendly activities. The on-site café provides a delightful spot to pause and enjoy refreshments while soaking in the surroundings. Whether you are wandering the paths, attending a workshop, or simply finding a quiet nook to read, Descanso Gardens invites you to relax and reconnect with nature. This tranquil sanctuary is an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a perfect destination for tourists seeking beauty, peace, and inspiration in the heart of California.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful experience and beautiful lighting for photographs.
- Check the calendar for seasonal events, workshops, and art exhibitions to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on various terrains throughout the gardens.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas while soaking up the natural beauty.
- Be sure to visit the gift shop for unique botanical-themed souvenirs to remember your trip.
A brief summary to Descanso Gardens
- 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, California, 91011, US
- +1818-949-4200
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Descanso Gardens from central Glendale, start by finding the nearest bus stop. You can take the Metro Bus Line 180 or 181 from the Glendale Galleria. Board the bus heading towards La Cañada Flintridge. Stay on the bus for about 20 minutes until you reach the 'La Cañada & Foothill' stop. From there, transfer to the Line 187, which will take you directly to Descanso Drive. Get off at 'Descanso Gardens' stop, and you will see the entrance to the gardens just a short walk away.
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Walking
If you are near the Glendale Galleria, you can walk to Descanso Gardens, which is about 3 miles away. Start by heading south on Maryland Ave until you reach E Colorado St. Turn left on E Colorado St and continue walking for about a mile. Turn right onto N Verdugo Rd and follow it for about 1.5 miles until you reach Descanso Dr. Turn left on Descanso Dr, and the entrance to the gardens will be on your left.
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Bicycle
For a bike ride to Descanso Gardens, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in downtown Glendale. Head east on Colorado St towards N Verdugo Rd. Follow N Verdugo Rd north until you reach Descanso Drive. Turn left onto Descanso Drive, and the entrance to the gardens will be on your left. The ride is approximately 3 miles and takes about 15-20 minutes.
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Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your current location in Glendale to '1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011'. The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm with your driver that you are headed to the entrance of Descanso Gardens.
